Gene Tied to Immune System Implicated in ADHD and Autism

Researchers at Duke University have discovered a link between the immune gene regulator STAT1 and hyperactive behaviors in mice, which may provide insights into neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and ADHD. Prolonged STAT1 signaling in dopamine neurons led to hyperactivity and reduced neural activity in brain regions associated with learning and reward. This study suggests that targeting STAT1 could be a potential therapeutic approach for neurobehavioral disorders.