The restless brain: attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, resting-state functional connectivity, and intrasubject variability

Can J Psychiatry. 2009 Oct;54(10):665-72. doi: 10.1177/070674370905401003.

Abstract

Objectives: To highlight recent advances in the conceptualization of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) emerging from neuroimaging and endophenotypic approaches.

Methods: We selectively reviewed recent published literature on the phenomena of resting-state functional connectivity, intrasubject variability, and diffusion tensor imaging pertaining to ADHD.

Results: Recent advances based on the novel approach of resting-state functional connectivity appear to be highly promising and likely to link to studies of intrasubject variability.

Conclusions: Endophenotypic fractionation may offer a means of addressing the complex heterogeneity of ADHD on the path to testable models of pathophysiology. Such models focusing on intrasubject variability, intrinsic brain activity, and reward-related processing are progressing rapidly.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Arousal / physiology*
  • Attention / physiology
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / physiopathology*
  • Brain / physiopathology*
  • Brain Mapping
  • Cerebral Cortex / physiopathology
  • Child
  • Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Dominance, Cerebral
  • Gyrus Cinguli / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted*
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional*
  • Individuality
  • Motivation
  • Nerve Net / physiopathology*