Aniracetam Ameliorates Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Behavior in Adolescent Mice

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects 8-12% of children globally. Hyperactivity-related behaviors, as well as inattention and impulsivity, are regarded as the nuclear symptoms of ADHD. At present, its etiologies and risk factors are unknown. Previous research linked TARP γ-8 deficiency to ADHD-like behaviors in mice, including hyperactivity, impulsivity, and memory deficits. Aniracetam, a nootropic drug, enhances cognition by modulating cholinergic activity and glutamate receptors, offering neuroprotective effects. This study examined TARP γ-8 knockout (KO) mice at 4 and 8 weeks, assessing behaviors through locomotor activity, cliff avoidance, novel object recognition, and contextual fear conditioning tests. TARP γ-8 KO mice exhibited hyperactivity, reduced recognition memory, and impaired short-term memory and long-term memory. Aniracetam administration improved these behavioral deficits, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for ADHD. The findings align with ADHD's pathophysiology, resembling the neurological impairments in TARP γ-8 KO mice. Aniracetam shows promise as a novel treatment for ADHD symptoms, highlighting its therapeutic value.