Modelling the Impact of ADHD Genes on Dopaminergic Neuron Function Using Stem Cells

ADHD is a complex condition, with genetics playing a key role that is not yet fully understood. My research focuses on DUSP6, a gene linked to ADHD through large genetic studies. Using stem cell technology, I reprogrammed cells from individuals with ADHD into stem cells and differentiated them into dopamine neurons, a brain cell type associated with ADHD. By developing a precise method to produce pure neurons, I created a robust model to study ADHD in a dish. Using CRISPR-Cas9, I turned off the DUSP6 gene to analyze its impact on dopamine neuron, also comparing results with neurons from neurotypical individuals. This research revealed how DUSP6 and dopamine-related processes might be disrupted in ADHD, providing insights into its biological basis and potential new treatments.