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Published on: November 8, 2024
A method for mapping intralocus interactions influencing excessive alcohol drinking
Tamara J Phillips1, Cheryl Reed, Sue Burkhart-Kasch
1Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Portland Alcohol Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA. phillipt@ohsu.edu
Summary
Researchers mapped genes linked to excessive alcohol consumption in mice. Hybrid mice showed higher ethanol intake, with specific gene locations identified on chromosomes 11, 15, and 16, suggesting intralocus interactions drive this trait.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Excessive alcohol consumption defines alcohol use disorders.
- Hybrid mice (B6 x FVB F1) exhibit higher ethanol intake than parent strains.
Purpose of the Study:
- Map genes responsible for overdominant (heterotic) ethanol drinking.
- Utilize ethanol intake data and genetic information for gene mapping.
Main Methods:
- Genome-wide quantitative trait locus (QTL) analyses in ~600 B6 x FVB F2 mice.
- Ethanol intake and preference tested using 24-h choice and Drinking in the Dark (DID) procedures.
- QTLs analyzed for additive, dominance effects, and epistasis.
Main Results:
- F2 mice consumed excessive ethanol, mirroring F1 hybrid intake.
- Significant QTLs for ethanol consumption identified on chromosomes 11, 15, and 16.
- No evidence of epistasis; hybrid overdominance attributed to intralocus interactions.
Conclusions:
- Hybrid overdominance in ethanol consumption is driven by intralocus interactions.
- Identified specific chromosomal regions associated with heightened ethanol intake.
- Findings provide genetic insights into alcohol consumption behaviors.
