Serum GDF-15 Levels in Pediatric ADHD: Associations with Symptom Severity and Stimulant Exposure
NEUROPSYCHIATRIC DISEASE AND TREATMENT, vol.Volume 22, pp.1-9, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: Volume 22
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.2147/ndt.s622224
- Journal Name: NEUROPSYCHIATRIC DISEASE AND TREATMENT
- Journal Indexes: Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO), Natural Science Collection (ProQuest), Biological Science Database (ProQuest), Biomedical Reference Collection: Corporate Edition (EBSCO), Health Research Premium Collection (ProQuest), Scopus, Pharma Collection (ProQuest), Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), EMBASE, Psycinfo, Directory of Open Access Journals
- Page Numbers: pp.1-9
- Kütahya Health Sciences University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Background: Growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15) is a stress-responsive cytokine involved in inflammatory signaling and metabolic regulation. Although inflammation has been implicated in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the role of GDF-15 in pediatric ADHD has not been previously investigated.
Methods: This cross-sectional study included 72 children with ADHD. Participants were grouped as stimulant-treated (≥ 12 months, n=32) and treatment-naïve (n=40). Clinical symptoms were assessed using the Conners’ Parent Rating Scale and the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL/6 − 18). Serum GDF-15 levels were measured using ELISA. Group comparisons and age-adjusted regression analyses were performed.
Results: Stimulant-treated participants were older and exhibited lower symptom severity across Conners and CBCL domains. Serum GDF-15 levels did not differ between groups and were not associated with medication status after age adjustment. Additionally, no significant correlations were observed between GDF-15 levels and clinical symptom measures.
Conclusion: Serum GDF-15 levels were not associated with symptom severity or stimulant exposure in children with ADHD. Although no significant associations were identified in this sample, further adequately powered longitudinal studies are needed to clarify the potential role of GDF-15 and inflammatory pathways in pediatric ADHD.