Dopaminergic modulation of default mode network brain functional connectivity in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Richard B. Silberstein*, Andrew Pipingas, Maree Farrow, Florence Levy, Con K. Stough

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

32 Citations (Scopus)
12 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Introduction: Recent evidence suggests that attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with a range of brain functional connectivity abnormalities, with one of the most prominent being reduced inhibition of the default mode network (DMN) while performing a cognitive task. In this study, we examine the effects of a methylphenidate dose on brain functional connectivity in boys diagnosed with ADHD while they performed a cognitive task. Method: Brain functional connectivity was estimated using steady-state visual evoked potential partial coherence before and 90 min after the administration of a methylphenidate dose to 42 stimulant drug-naïve boys newly diagnosed with ADHD while they performed the A-X version of the continuous performance task (CPT A-X). Results: Methylphenidate robustly reversed the transient functional connectivity increase in the A-X interval seen premedication to a postmedication decrease during this interval. In addition, methylphenidate-induced reductions in individual reaction time were correlated with corresponding reductions in functional connectivity. Conclusion: These findings suggest that methylphenidate suppresses the increased functional connectivity observed in ADHD and that such suppression is associated with improved performance. Our findings support the suggestion that the increased functional connectivity we have observed in ADHD is associated with abnormal DMN activity. In addition, we comment on the significance of specific frequency channels mediating top-down communication within the cortex and the extent to which our findings are selectively sensitive to top-down intracortical communication.

Original languageEnglish
Article numbere00582
Pages (from-to)1-12
Number of pages12
JournalBrain and Behavior
Volume6
Issue number12
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Dec 2016
Externally publishedYes

Bibliographical note

Copyright the Author(s) 2016. Version archived for private and non-commercial use with the permission of the author/s and according to publisher conditions. For further rights please contact the publisher.

Keywords

  • brain functional connectivity
  • default mode network
  • dopamine
  • methylphenidate
  • steady-state visually evoked potential

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