Drunk Driving Linked To Certain Genotypes

Recent studies have shown people with certain genotypes are more likely to drive after drinking than people with other genotypes. Doctors at UNT Health Science Center's School of Public Health conducted a study in a bar district of a large college campus community. Random samples of saliva were taken from patrons leaving bars and results showed that patrons with S/S genotype are more likely to drive home from the bar than patrons with L/L genotype. The 5-HTTLPR genetic marker is commonly reported in three forms based on allele length: L/L (two long alleles), S/L (one long and one short allele), and S/S (two short alleles).Most research has shown that the S/S type is associated with psychological distress and problem behavior. Approximately 20 percent of the general population has the S/S trait. Although this does not give people an excuse to drink and drive it gives us a better understanding into the minds of repetitive DUI offenders. Individuals with this genotype are more apt to performing risky behaviors and impulsive decisions.