Systematic Review: How the Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Polygenic Risk Score Adds to Our Understanding of ADHD and Associated Traits.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE\nTo investigate, by systematically reviewing the literature, if the attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder ADHD polygenic risk score (PRS) associates with ADHD and related traits in independent clinical and population samples.\n\n\nMETHOD\nPubmed, Embase and PsychoInfo were systematically searched, alongside study bibliographies. Quality assessments were conducted, and a best-evidence synthesis was applied. Studies were excluded when 1) predictor was not based on the latest ADHD genome-wide association study; 2) PRS was not based on genome-wide results; 3) study was a review. Initially, 197 studies were retrieved [dd. Feb 22nd 2020]; a second search [dd June 3rd 2020] retrieved a further 49 studies; from both searches, 57 studies were eligible and 44 studies met inclusion criteria.\n\n\nRESULTS\nIncluded studies were published in the last three years. Over 80% of the studies were rated excellent based on a standardized quality assessment. Evidence of associations between ADHD PRS and the following categories was strong: ADHD, ADHD traits, brain structure, education, externalizing behaviors, neuropsychological constructs, physical health and socio-economic status. Evidence for associations with addiction, autism and mental health are mixed and were, so far, inconclusive. Odds ratios for PRS associating with ADHD ranged from 1.22-1.76; variance explained in dimensional assessments of ADHD traits was 0.7%-3.3%.\n\n\nCONCLUSION\nA new wave of high quality research using the ADHD PRS has emerged. Eventually, symptoms may be partly identified based on PRS, but the current ADHD PRS is useful for research purposes only. This review shows the ADHD PRS is robust and reliable, associating not just ADHD but many outcomes and challenges known to be linked to ADHD.