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Localization of genes affecting alcohol drinking in mice
T J Phillips1, J C Crabbe, P Metten
1Veterans Administration Medical Center, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland.
Alcoholism, Clinical and Experimental Research
|August 1, 1994
Summary
Researchers mapped genes influencing ethanol consumption using mouse models. Genetic factors significantly impact both alcohol and saccharin preference, with some genes affecting both behaviors and physical dependence.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Genetics
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Identifying genes controlling complex behaviors like alcohol consumption is crucial.
- Recombinant inbred (RI) mouse strains offer a powerful tool for genetic mapping.
Purpose of the Study:
- To map quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with ethanol (EtOH) intake.
- To investigate the genetic overlap between EtOH and saccharin consumption.
- To explore genetic links between EtOH consumption and physical dependence.
Main Methods:
- Utilized BXD RI mouse strains derived from C57BL/6J and DBA/2J progenitors.
- Assessed 3% and 10% ethanol intake via two-bottle choice tests with water, unsweetened ethanol, and saccharin-sweetened ethanol.
- Performed correlational and QTL analyses to identify genetic markers.
Main Results:
- Significant genetic correlations were found between ethanol and saccharin consumption, varying by concentration and sweetener.
- Handling-induced convulsions during ethanol withdrawal correlated with sweetened ethanol intake, suggesting genetic avidity.
- QTL analyses identified genetic markers associated with ethanol intake, including the D2 dopamine receptor gene, and the sac locus for saccharin detection.
Conclusions:
- Ethanol and saccharin consumption are polygenic traits influenced by multiple QTL.
- Some QTLs for ethanol intake may also influence saccharin preference and physical dependence.
- This study provides map locations for genes controlling ethanol consumption and preference in the mouse genome.