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Endophenotypes for Alcohol Use Disorder: An Update on the Field
Jessica E Salvatore1, Irving I Gottesman2, Danielle M Dick1
1Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, PO Box 980126, Richmond, VA 23298-0126.
Current Addiction Reports
|August 4, 2015
Summary
Endophenotypes, or intermediate phenotypes, aid in identifying genes for alcohol use disorder (AUD). Key AUD endophenotypes include alcohol response levels and neurophysiological markers, showing promise for future genetic research.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatric Genetics
- Neuroscience
- Addiction Research
Background:
- The endophenotype concept aids gene identification for psychiatric disorders.
- Endophenotypes are genetically simpler than complex disorders.
- They are distinct from intermediate phenotypes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review candidate endophenotypes for alcohol use disorder (AUD).
- To evaluate their utility in genetic studies and translational research.
- To highlight future research directions for AUD endophenotypes.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on candidate endophenotypes for AUD.
- Analysis of genetic associations with specific endophenotypes.
- Examination of translational approaches and pharmacological interventions.
Main Results:
- Replicable genetic associations found for alcohol response level and neurophysiological markers (e.g., event-related oscillations/potentials).
- Cognitive, sensory, and neuroimaging endophenotypes show potential but require further validation.
- Translational studies have advanced understanding of AUD neurobiology, genetics, and treatment.
Conclusions:
- Endophenotypes are valuable tools for understanding the genetic basis of AUD.
- Further research should focus on polygenic influences and developmental changes in endophenotypes.
- This approach can illuminate genetically-influenced pathways toward AUD.
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