Research shows that your genes may make you more or less likely to develop an alcohol addiction
. According to research conducted by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), many genes play a role in shaping a persons risk for alcohol addiction, and alcoholism is a genetically complex disease like heart disease and diabetes.
Genes may account for as much as 50 percent of your chances for alcohol addiction but that does not mean genes determine your fate for alcoholism. Environmental factors and lifestyle choices complete the other half of the equation.
One way genes may play a role in developing alcoholism is the variation of the enzymes ADH and ALDH in the liver that help metabolize alcohol. These enzymes vary from person to person. Some people can easily metabolize alcohol while others metabolize it more slowly creating a buildup of a toxic byproduct in the body.
Early studies with mice have shown that genes may play a role in alcohol sensitivity, alcohol tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. Later gene studies in humans show a connection between alcoholism and genes affecting serotonin and GABA (gammaaminobutyric acid)activityin the brain. One study followed the drinking habits of college students. Students with a particular serotonin transporter gene participated in more frequent drinking and heavier drinking episodes than students with a different gene variant.
Studies on the effects of various drugs and their ability to help treat alcoholism also help to take a look at the gene factor in alcoholism. Naltrexone is an example of one such drug that has helped many people stop drinking. It works by blocking the opioid receptors in the brain responsible for the euphoric feelings associated with drinking. People with different variations in the gene receptor respond differently to the drug. Some people it helps; some people it does not.
State of the art advances in medical and technological sciences continue to help researchers and healthcare professionals study the complex gene factor associated with alcoholism. One thing is for certain--neurotransmitter genes and alcohol addiction are inherently related. Continued study can help identify specific genes that increase the risk, and help to provide a platform for awareness and prevention.
If you or someone you know is suffering from alcoholism, seek treatment at an advanced drug and alcohol treatment center specializing in neuroscience technology. An advanced treatment center with imaging technology can help address chemical imbalances caused by alcohol dependency and offer an individualized program for a complete and sustainable recovery.