INVESTIGATING SLA16 RATS AS A NOVEL MODEL FOR ADHD: BEHAVIORAL INSIGHTS

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is characterized by symptoms such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention, with a prevalence of 5.9% in young individuals and 2.5% in adults. Current treatment with psycho-stimulants has adverse effects, highlighting the need for more effective and safe therapies. Studies show that adulthood ADHD is more prevalent in women. Animal models have been demonstrated to have translational value for ADHD, particularly the spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) strain, but some specific characteristics such as hypertension may limit its applicability. SHR.LEW-(D4Rat76-D4Mgh11) (SLA16) rats exhibited behavioral characteristics associated with ADHD, including hyperactivity and impulsive-like behaviors. This research contributes to the understanding of ADHD and suggests SLA16 rats as a valuable model for studying the disorder.