Genetics of Childhood Disorders: XVIII. ADHD, Part 2: Norepinephrine Has a Critical Modulatory Influence on Prefrontal Cortical Function

Dysfunction of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) is a hndamental component of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The PFC uses working memory to intelligently guide behavior, inhibiting inappropriate impulses or distractions and allowing us to plan and organize effectively (see previous column). Individuals with ADHD are consistently impaired on tests of frontal lobe function, and both structural and functional imaging studies have shown evidence of altered PFC function in individuals with ADHD. In particular, the right PFC has been shown to be consistently smaller in