Microbiome dynamics in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis decoding the role of gut dysbiosis and potential dietary interventions.

Abstract

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is being increasingly related to gut microbial dysbiosis caused by disturbances in the gut-brain axis. However, in order to understand the connection of gut bacteria in ADHD, a comprehensive synthesis of available research is required. The purpose of this meta-analysis is to compare the gut microbiome composition of ADHD children to that of neurotypical controls, as well as to assess the efficacy of dietary treatments in treating ADHD symptoms. A systematic review and meta-analysis were undertaken using PRISMA guidelines to compare the gut microbiome profiles of ADHD children and the neurotypical controls, with association of the impact of dietary changes. An analysis of eight included research found significant changes in the gut microbiome of children with ADHD. Similarly, they also found to have lower levels of Actinobacteria (5.78% vs. 4.89%, p < 0.001) and greater levels of Firmicutes (16.43% vs. 14.21%, p < 0.001), Bacteroidetes (13.12% vs. 11.02%, p = 0.002), and Proteobacteria (7.12% vs. 6.33%, p = 0.001). Beneficial genus-level taxa such as Lactobacillus (8.23% vs. 6.87%, p = 0.002) and Bifidobacterium (9.87% vs. 8.11%, p = 0.002) were significantly reduced in children with ADHD. Further the current research suggests that probiotics and fiber-rich diets may aid in maintain gut microbial balance, with specific strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, being associated with behavioural improvements in ADHD. These findings highlight the possibility of probiotics and dietary changes as supplementary treatments for ADHD symptoms by regulating the gut-brain axis.