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Genetic markers and alcoholism
Recent Developments in Alcoholism : an Official Publication of the American Medical Society on Alcoholism, the Research Society on Alcoholism, and the National Council on Alcoholism
|January 1, 1983
Summary
Genetic markers show associations with alcoholism, but these links may stem from acquired, not inherited, factors. Further research is needed to understand the complex relationship between genetics and alcohol use disorder.
Area of Science:
- Genetics and behavioral science, focusing on the genetic underpinnings of alcoholism.
Background:
- Genetic markers are heritable traits linked to various disorders.
- Alcoholism's association with specific genetic markers has been investigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the frequency of four genetic markers in individuals with alcoholism compared to the general population.
- To determine if observed associations between markers and alcoholism are inherited or acquired.
Main Methods:
- Studied four types of genetic markers: blood groups/serum proteins, ABH secretion, phenylthiourea taste sensitivity, and color vision defects.
- Compared the prevalence of these markers in alcoholics versus the general population.
Main Results:
- Significant associations were found between alcoholism and phenylthiourea taste sensitivity, color vision defects, and ABH secretion.
- No significant association was observed between alcoholism and blood groups/serum proteins.
- The identified associations appear to be influenced by acquired factors rather than genetic inheritance.
Conclusions:
- While some genetic markers are associated with alcoholism, these links are likely due to environmental or acquired influences.
- The study suggests that inherited factors may play a less significant role in these specific marker associations than previously thought.