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Correlation between human erythrocyte aldehyde dehydrogenase activity and sensitivity to alcohol
Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior
|August 1, 1980
Summary
Alcohol consumption can cause increased heart rate and facial flushing in some individuals. This study links higher acetaldehyde levels and these physiological responses to lower erythrocyte aldehyde dehydrogenase activity, suggesting a marker for alcohol sensitivity.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Alcohol metabolism involves ethanol being converted to acetaldehyde, a toxic compound.
- Acetaldehyde is further metabolized by aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH).
- Individual differences in alcohol response, particularly in East Asian populations, are often linked to genetic variations in ALDH2.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between physiological responses to alcohol (heart rate increase, facial flushing) and biochemical markers.
- To explore the role of erythrocyte aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity in mediating alcohol's effects.
- To determine if ALDH activity can serve as a marker for alcohol sensitivity.
Main Methods:
- Administered a controlled oral dose of ethanol (0.48 g/kg body weight) to healthy young Japanese men.
- Monitored heart rate and observed facial flushing post-ethanol intake.
- Measured blood alcohol levels and blood acetaldehyde levels.
- Assessed aldehyde dehydrogenase activity in erythrocytes.
Main Results:
- Individuals exhibiting a marked heart rate increase and facial flushing also showed higher acetaldehyde levels, despite similar blood alcohol concentrations.
- A significant negative correlation (r=-0.73, p < 0.01) was found between erythrocyte ALDH activity and the increase in heart rate.
- Lower ALDH activity was associated with greater physiological sensitivity to alcohol.
Conclusions:
- Erythrocyte aldehyde dehydrogenase activity appears to influence or reflect blood acetaldehyde levels and the acute physiological response to alcohol.
- ALDH activity in erythrocytes may serve as a useful biomarker for assessing alcohol sensitivity, particularly in individuals of Oriental descent.
- Understanding these metabolic differences can contribute to personalized approaches for managing alcohol consumption and related health risks.
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