The Association between GHRL and LEP Gene Polymorphisms and ADHD: Evidence from a Pediatric Cohort

Aim: Dopaminergic neurons and dopamine transporters show variations in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Furthermore, Ghrelin and leptin, hormones recognized for their neurotrophic effects, are significant in central nervous system regulation, influencing neuronal survival and development. Material and Methods: This study aimed to examine the potential relationship between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and polymorphisms in the GHRL (rs34911341) and LEP (rs7799039) genes. The research sample consisted of 29 children diagnosed with ADHD and 24 age-matched healthy controls. Genotypic analysis was conducted using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique. Results: A significant difference in genotype distribution for the GHRL gene rs34911341 polymorphism was observed between the ADHD group and healthy controls (p = 0.036), whereas allele frequencies did not show a statistically significant difference (p = 0.207). In contrast, analysis of the LEP gene rs7799039 polymorphism revealed no significant differences in either genotype (p = 0.579) or allele frequencies (p = 0.558) between the two groups. Conclusion: These findings suggest a potential role for the GHRL rs34911341 polymorphism in the development or presentation of ADHD. Further research is required to elucidate the mechanisms underlying this association.