Are there ADHD-linked gene variants shared with bipolar disorder?

PostedOctober 7, 2025

UpdatedOctober 10, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, recent findings in psychiatric genetics suggest a significant ADHD bipolar genetic overlap. These two conditions may look different on the surface, but they often share a comorbidity and, more intriguingly, some of the same underlying genetic risk factors.

Both ADHD and bipolar disorder involve dysregulation of mood, attention, and executive function, which may explain their frequent co‑occurrence. Large-scale genetic studies have identified shared risk variants in genes that influence dopamine signalling, circadian rhythm regulation, and synaptic plasticity, all vital processes in brain function and emotional regulation.

Shared Genetic Markers and What They Mean

Here are some of the most studied overlaps and how they affect symptom presentation and treatment strategies:

Dopaminergic pathway genes

Variants in dopamine-related genes such as DRD4 (ADHD) and ANK3 or CACNA1C (bipolar) are linked to mood volatility and impulsivity. These genes play key roles in emotional response and reward processing. Recognising this overlap can help clinicians design treatment plans that balance stimulant use with mood stabilisation strategies.

Circadian rhythm genes

Genes like CLOCK and ARNTL affect sleep-wake cycles and are implicated in both disorders. Disruptions in these genes may underlie the sleep issues common to both ADHD and bipolar disorder. Therapies that focus on sleep regulation, such as CBT for insomnia or light therapy, can offer cross-condition benefits.

Shared comorbidity challenges

Individuals with both ADHD and bipolar disorder often face delayed diagnoses or misdiagnoses due to overlapping symptoms. Understanding the genetic links can help untangle these complexities, improving treatment accuracy and patient outcomes.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations if you are exploring the connection between ADHD and mood disorders.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Genetic studies and biomarkers.

Victoria Rowe, MSc

Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.