Animal models for the study of ADHD: the need for next-generation models

Animal models have long been indispensable for elucidating the pathophysiology of neurodevelopmental disorders, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, many existing models inadequately capture the full spectrum of ADHD symptoms and their underlying neurobiological mechanisms. In this Mini Review, we argue that continued reliance on simplistic genetic models limits mechanistic insight and that next-generation approaches must integrate gene-environment (G×E) frameworks, together with behavioral readouts informed by the triple-pathway model of ADHD. Such approaches are essential for interrogating pharmacoresistant domains of ADHD, including executive dysfunction and impaired time perception, which remain inadequately addressed by current pharmacotherapies.