Genetics and Alcoholism

LInks Between Genes and Alcoholism

Alcoholism or alcohol dependence is impaired control over drinking, preoccupation with drinking withdrawal symptoms, and/or high tolerance to alcohol. Approximately 100,000 deaths per year associated to alcoholism. Nearly fourteen million Americans, have an alcohol problem. Probability of inheriting, genetic potential for alcoholism (disease) is about fifty percent, whether one or both parents are alcoholic. Studies conclude, a link between alcoholism, and various genes.

Published in January 2004, Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research: Dr. Danielle Dick, assistant professor of psychiatry at Washington University School of Medicine, in St. Louis, studied 2,283 people, from 262 alcoholic families. Researchers studied fifteen chromosomes (carrier of genetic information), which contain genes (segments of DNA - deoxyribonucleic acid) that control the movement of the brain chemical, called 'GABA,' between neurons. One of these genes, referred to "GABRG3,' was found statistically linked with alcoholism, in effected families. This neurotransmitter gene is a receptor or molecule for gamma-amino buyric acid - a message-carrying chemical. However, 'GABRG3' does not guarantee, individual will always be receptive to alcoholism. Unknown factor is how the changes in 'GABA' gene, increase a person's risk of alcoholism.

Howard J. Edenburg, professor of biochemistry molecular biology, and molecular genetics, at Indiana University of School of Medicine, organized a team of researchers. They studied 1,547 families, which found (2004) one gene raises the risk of alcoholism. The gene acts on GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric acid) - the body's natural tranquilizer, which is an amino acid produce in the brain. Brain inhibitory neurotransmitter slows down the firing of certain brain nerves. Alcohol increases the ability of the neurotransmitter, to calm neural circuits.