Future studies

Currently there are two studies being developed: one international study on the genetics of ADHD and Drug Dependence (ISGADD), and another on the effects of physical exercise for patients with ADHD and SUD.

ISGADD – International Study on the Genetics of ADHD and Drug Dependence

Currently the ISGADD is being developed. Steve Faraone will be the principal investigator of this study. In this study we aim to:

• Set up a cost-effective network for the ascertainment and assessment of drug dependent (DD)+ADHD patients. This project benefits from pre-existing samples and from the infrastructure we have already established via the IASP. 
• Carry out a GWAS of DD+ADHD: We expect that use of the more homogenous DD+ADHD group will help us identify one or more susceptibility loci across the genome.
• Search for rare copy number variants (CNVs). We will also use the data collected to screen for CNVs and assess their association with DD+ADHD. 
• Replicate rare variants in an independent sample of 1500 cases and 1500 controls. We will use the ICASA consortium to collect an independent replication sample.

The following researchers participate in this project: David Hay, Csaba Barta, Esther Croes, Philip Asherson, Jan Haavik and Antoni Ramos-Quiroga. We endeavour to obtain funding for this study via NIDA/NIH in the USA.

Physical Exercise for patients with ADHD and SUD

What is the role of physical exercise in prevention and treatment of ADHD and SUD?
During the ICASA meeting in Bergen, May 2010, it was decided to set up a working group on the topic of physical exercise.

This working group has develop a research protocol, a budget and funding opportunities. The pilot project will start in march 2012, and the results will be presented in Bordeaux september 2012.

For more information on this project, please contact Thomas Dahl Orø from The Bergen Clinics Foundation, Norway.