Work

Exploring the levels of homocysteine and its relationship with cognitive function in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder frequently accompanied by cognitive dysfunction. However, the precise etiology of the cognitive impairment remains unclear. Homocysteine is recognized as a risk factor that contributes to cognitive impairment. Objective To explore the potential changes in serum homocysteine levels in children with ADHD and to evaluate its relationship with cognitive function. Methods In this cross-sectional and case–control study, 39 children diagnosed with ADHD were recruited from the outpatient clinic of the Capital Center For Children’s Health, Capital Medical University, along with 40 age- and sex-matched healthy children from the Health Care Department. Serum homocysteine levels were measured via the enzyme cycle method. Age and sex were incorporated into stratified analyses. Cognitive function in patients with ADHD was evaluated using the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF). Results Compared with the healthy individuals, patients with ADHD exhibited significantly higher serum total homocysteine levels (7.20 ± 1.19 μmol/L vs. 6.35 ± 1.11 μmol/L, p = 0.002). This association was prominent in younger patients (7.21 ± 1.39 μmol/L vs. 5.84 ± 0.18 μmol/L, p = 0.001) and male patients (7.21 ± 1.15 μmol/L vs. 6.44 ± 1.18 μmol/L, p = 0.010). No significant correlation was observed between serum total homocysteine levels and BRIEF scores ( p > 0.05). Conclusion The study indicates that compared to healthy individuals, patients with ADHD exhibit relatively high homocysteine levels, especially in younger and male patients. However, this study did not support a significant correlation between homocysteine levels and cognitive function in children with ADHD.

Source: Frontiers in Neurology

DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2025.1662441

Authors: Huiting Wang, Ziqi Liu, Xin Wang, Jianzhao Zhang, Jian Yang

Institution: Capital Medical University

Language: English

Topic: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801