RESEARCH UPDATE 2004
 Teicher, center, and collaborators Carl Anderson, PhD, left, and Nikos Fourligas, PhD, right. |
| Advances Aid in the Assessment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Children |
| Researchers in the Developmental Biopsychiatry Research Program, lead by Martin Teicher, MD, PhD, have developed a computer-based diagnostic tool for objectively measuring attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). One of the most diagnosed and mis-diagnosed psychiatric disorders in children, ADHD is typically characterized by a childs inability to sit still and pay attention. The device, called M-MAT (McLean Motion and Attention Test), may prove to be a powerful new tool to aid physicians in diagnosing ADHD. The M-MAT test, approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, removes an element of diagnostic subjectivity by objectively measuring hyperactivity, impulsivity and attention through the monitoring of fine body movements during a computerized task. The test is also valuable in determining whether or not medication will be effective in treating ADHD. McLean Hospital is partnering with outside investors to commercialize this exciting and revolutionary new technology and a nationwide market launch of this diagnostic aid is expected. |
| As a direct result of McLean's ADHD diagnostic advances, the Eastman Kodak Company of Rochester, New York, donated a family of 11 ADHD testing patents to the hospital in May 2003. The technology was developed in Kodaks Systems Concepts Center and came about as a result of research on the use of visual images for stress reduction. This was seen as a very valuable technology, but because it was outside Kodaks core business of consumer and commercial imaging, Kodak donated the technology to McLean with its expertise in ADHD research. The donation agreement between Kodak and McLean culminated with the transfer of the entire patent portfolio. The donation was also accompanied by a $50,000 gift for the ongoing maintenance of the patent portfolio and an additional $300,000 to support the research necessary to move the technology toward commercialization. This was Kodaks first-ever technology donation and the transfer was coordinated through McLeans Research Administration office. The research will be conducted under the direction of Dr. Teicher. The hospital hopes these two technologies will complement and enhance one another and that their development and commercialization will proceed together. |