New Israeli Discovery in Brain Research Brings Hope for ADHD Treatments

In a groundbreaking study, Israeli researchers have identified a specific brain region, the claustrum, which plays a crucial role in controlling alertness and impulse control. This discovery holds promise for developing new treatments for disorders like ADHD, drug addiction, and schizophrenia.

The claustrum, a small, thin part of the brain, serves as an unlikely central hub, connecting many other brain regions. Despite its extensive connectivity, the claustrum’s deep location in the brain's white matter has made it challenging to study. Researchers have long speculated about its role in integrating sensory and motor information, with some theories suggesting it coordinates different brain regions to create a cohesive perceptual experience, potentially acting as a conductor of consciousness.

Recent findings by researchers from Hebrew University, led by Professor Ami Citri and Dr. Gal Atlan, in collaboration with Professor Yuval Nir of Tel Aviv University, suggest the claustrum regulates engagement and responsiveness from deep sleep to vigilant states. Their study, published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Communications, highlights the claustrum’s role in controlling sensory responsiveness and impulse control.

By recording neuron activity in the claustrum of mice during attention-demanding tasks, the researchers discovered that increased activity in these neurons reduced sensory responsiveness and impulsivity. Additionally, this neuronal activity during sleep supported uninterrupted rest. "Our study provides compelling evidence that claustrum neurons act as gatekeepers of engagement, regulating how likely perception is to drive action," Citri explained.

The claustrum’s activity level directly impacts our responsiveness to sensory stimuli and overall alertness. When researchers enhanced claustrum neuron activity, they observed a significant reduction in impulsive errors and a decreased likelihood of waking in response to sensory stimulation. Conversely, lower activity in these neurons correlated with hyper-engagement and increased impulsive errors, underscoring the claustrum’s critical regulatory function across different arousal states.

"This study enhances our understanding of the claustrum’s function in brain processes and opens potential pathways for addressing issues related to attention disorders and sleep disturbances," Citri noted. "It provides valuable insight into how specific neural pathways influence behavioral states, advancing our knowledge of the complex interactions between sleep and alertness, and could lead to targeted therapeutic interventions."

The claustrum’s ability to regulate engagement and sensory responsiveness could pave the way for new treatments for attention and impulse control disorders, including ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, and drug addiction. As research continues, this discovery underscores the potential for innovative therapies that improve the lives of those affected by these conditions.

Stay informed about Israel's latest scientific advancements by subscribing to our newsletter and sharing this article.