Synapsin Polymorphisms Could Be Correlated with Stroop Simple Reaction Time Scores

Objective: The aim of this study was to research the relationship between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and the synapsin III -196G>A and -631C>G polymorphisms and study their impact on neurocognition and behavior in Turkish children and adolescents. Methods: A total of 201 ADHD-diagnosed children and 100 control subjects aged between 8 and 15 years were recruited, and genetic material was obtained from saliva. In the diagnostic assessments, the KSADS- PL semi-structured interview was applied. Children with any comorbid psychiatric diagnosis (with the exclusion of oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)), medical conditions, prior psychotropic drug use history or IQ score below 80 were excluded. For the behavioral and ADHD symptom assessments, the Turgay DSM-IV Disruptive Behaviors Rating Scale, Teacher Report Form (TRF) and Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) were completed by the parents and teachers. Neurocognitive profiles were evaluated with the CNS-Vital Signs computerized neurocognitive test battery. Results: No significant difference in ADHD prevalence was observed between subjects with the synapsin III gene -196G>A polymorphism and -631C>G polymorphisms. These polymorphisms were also not associated with subtypes of ADHD. We found a relationship between both polymorphisms and Stroop simple reaction time. Conclusion: Synapsin’s effect could be limited during childhood, but synapsin polymorphisms could be associated with Stroop simple reaction time.