Gut Microbiome and Serum Metabolome Alterations in Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Patients

Host-microbe interactions play a key role in brain development and function and in the etiology of neurodevelopmental disorders. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a heterogeneous disorder that affects 1 in 20 children and results in poor life-time outcomes. However, the etiology of ADHD is unclear and its diagnosis and treatment are still challenging. Different factors reported to be associated with the risk of developing ADHD and/or linked to different ADHD manifestations have also been linked to shifts in gut microbiota composition, suggesting a link between the microbiota and the disorder. Here, we will perform a metagenome-wide association study and serum metabolomics profiling in a cohort of control and ADHD, 6-15 years, Chinese individuals. We aim to identify ADHD-associated gut microbial species linked to changes in circulating metabolites. We also aim to find the possible intervention strategy in ADHD by targeting the gut microbiota.