Study Examines Genetic Traits and Alcohol Abuse
Overview of Alcohol Use Disorder
A recent study published in *Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research* investigates the relationship between genetic factors and alcohol abuse, particularly focusing on cravings. Alcohol use disorder (AUD), which affects approximately 75 million individuals globally, is a significant health concern, with around 16 million cases reported in the United States. This disorder is recognized as one of the leading causes of death and encompasses a range of alcohol consumption patterns classified as mild, moderate, or severe according to criteria set by the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
Health Consequences of Alcohol Abuse
Long-term alcohol abuse can lead to severe health issues, including liver disease, neurological disorders like dementia, and cardiovascular problems. Research indicates a connection between alcohol consumption and alterations in the activity of genes that regulate the circadian rhythm, commonly referred to as the body clock. Disruptions in this biological clock may contribute to heightened alcohol consumption and cravings, establishing a detrimental feedback loop. Additionally, alcohol abuse is linked to changes in the release patterns of stress hormones in the body.
Research Focus and Methodology
Researchers from Rutgers and Yale aimed to understand the genetic factors influencing drinking behaviors, concentrating on two specific genes: PER2, which regulates the body clock, and POMC, involved in the stress hormone system. Their study analyzed epigenetic changes and behavioral motivations related to alcohol consumption among three groups of participants categorized as heavy, binge, or moderate drinkers.
Key Findings of the Study
Results published in the February 2019 edition of *Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research* revealed that heavy and binge drinkers exhibited increased levels of methylation and decreased activity of the PER2 and POMC genes compared to moderate drinkers. Gene methylation influences gene activity without altering the underlying genetic code. These findings suggest that the methylation and expression levels of these genes could serve as indicators for monitoring the development and progression of AUD in individuals.
Implications for Treatment and Future Research
The authors emphasize the importance of early detection of alcohol abuse, as timely intervention can significantly enhance treatment success rates. However, they acknowledge limitations in the study, such as the small sample size of 47 participants and the underrepresentation of women, which hinders broader conclusions about gender differences.
Despite these limitations, the study contributes to a deeper understanding of the genetic aspects of alcoholism. Dr. Dipak K. Sarkar, the senior author of the study, stated in a press release, “This may help explain why alcoholism is such a powerful addiction and may one day contribute to new ways to treat alcoholism or help prevent at-risk individuals from becoming addicted.”
References
Gangisetty O, Sinha R, Sarkar DK. Hypermethylation of Proopiomelanocortin and Period 2 Genes in Blood Are Associated with Greater Subjective and Behavioral Motivation for Alcohol in Humans. Alcohol Clin Exp Res. 2019 Feb;43(2):212-220. Press release retrieved from https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2019-01/ru-hdm012819.php.