Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 12, 2026
08:26
Assessing Activity-based Anorexia in Mice
Published on: May 14, 2018
[ALDH phenotype in eating disorders with and without alcoholism]
K Suzuki1, T Muramatsu, K Yamada
1Kurihama National Hospital, Kanagawa, Japan.
Arukoru Kenkyu to Yakubutsu Izon = Japanese Journal of Alcohol Studies & Drug Dependence
|December 1, 1992
Summary
Individuals with inactive aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) are less prone to alcoholism. This study found inactive ALDH2 also protects eating disorder patients from alcoholism, similar to the general population.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
- Psychiatry
Context:
- Alcoholism is a prevalent issue, with genetic factors influencing susceptibility.
- Eating disorders are frequently comorbid with alcoholism.
- The role of aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) genotype in alcoholism risk is established in general populations.
Purpose:
- To investigate the prevalence of inactive aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) phenotype in eating disorder patients with and without alcoholism.
- To determine if inactive ALDH2 confers protection against alcoholism in individuals with eating disorders.
Summary:
- This study analyzed the ALDH2 phenotype in 25 eating disorder patients (diagnosed via DSM-III-R criteria), comparing 13 alcoholics and 12 non-alcoholics.
- Hair root samples were analyzed using isoelectric focusing.
- A significantly lower prevalence of inactive ALDH2 was observed in alcoholic patients (8%) compared to non-alcoholic patients (58%) (p < 0.01).
Impact:
- The findings suggest that inactive ALDH2 acts as a protective factor against alcoholism in eating disorder patients, mirroring its effect in the general population.
- This highlights a potential genetic marker for alcoholism risk stratification in individuals with eating disorders.
- Further research could explore therapeutic interventions targeting ALDH2 pathways.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Inborn Errors of Metabolism
Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a protein metabolism disorder characterized by high blood levels of the amino acid phenylalanine. This results from a mutation in the gene responsible for phenylalanine hydroxylase, an enzyme that converts phenylalanine into tyrosine. When this enzyme is deficient, phenylalanine builds up in the blood, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, rashes, seizures, growth deficiency, and severe mental retardation. An early diagnosis and a diet restricting phenylalanine intake...
01:28Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia nervosa is a complex and severe eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of weight gain, an unrelenting pursuit of thinness, and a distorted body image. It often leads to dangerously low body weight relative to an individual's age and height. This disorder is marked by significant physical and psychological consequences, making it one of the most life-threatening psychiatric illnesses.
Symptoms and Physical Effects
Individuals with anorexia nervosa commonly exhibit extreme...
Symptoms and Physical Effects
Individuals with anorexia nervosa commonly exhibit extreme...
01:23Binge Eating Disorders
Binge eating disorder is a significant mental health condition characterized by recurrent episodes of excessive food consumption within a short period, accompanied by a perceived loss of control over eating behavior. Unlike occasional overeating, binge eating disorder is marked by distressing emotions such as guilt, shame, and anxiety following binge episodes. The disorder affects individuals across different ages and backgrounds, with profound implications for physical and psychological...