Publications [#251254] of Avshalom Caspi

Journal Articles

1. Caspi, A; Langley, K; Milne, B; Moffitt, TE; O'Donovan, M; Owen, MJ; Polo Tomas, M; Poulton, R; Rutter, M; Taylor, A; Williams, B; Thapar, A (2008). A replicated molecular genetic basis for subtyping antisocial behavior in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.. Archives of general psychiatry, 65(2), 203-210. [18250258], [doi]
   (last updated on 2024/04/23)

   Abstract:
   

   Context

   Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder that in some cases is accompanied by antisocial behavior.

   Objective

   To test if variations in the catechol O-methyltransferase gene (COMT) would prove useful in identifying the subset of children with ADHD who exhibit antisocial behavior.

   Design

   Three independent samples composed of 1 clinical sample of ADHD cases and 2 birth cohort studies.

   Participants

   Participants in the clinical sample were drawn from child psychiatry and child health clinics in England and Wales. The 2 birth cohort studies included 1 sample of 2232 British children born in 1994-1995 and a second sample of 1037 New Zealander children born in 1972-1973.

   Main outcome measures

   Diagnosis of ADHD and measures of antisocial behavior.

   Results

   We present replicated evidence that the COMT valine/methionine polymorphism at codon 158 (COMT Val158Met) was associated with phenotypic variation among children with ADHD. Across the 3 samples, valine/valine homozygotes had more symptoms of conduct disorder, were more aggressive, and were more likely to be convicted of criminal offenses compared with methionine carriers.

   Conclusions

   The findings confirm the presence of genetic heterogeneity in ADHD and illustrate how genetic information may provide biological evidence pointing to clinical subtypes.