These researchers gathered much data from the genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to effectively link specific genes to smoking addiction. Because smoking is associated with many diseases like heart disease and cancer, GWAS was able to supply a lot of data that can help test the links between genetic variants and smoking in one single study.
At this time, testing one's genome for variants can not do anything to provide treatment for smoking addictions. Hopefully with more data, possible gene therapies can be used to increase the rate of smoking cessation among addicts.
It's very good article! The Smoking is extremely harmful, do not do it!
ReplyDeleteHopefully one day we could figure out how to block receptors tied to the mental and more importantly the physical addiction much like Chantix but without severe negative side effects such as depression and suicidal thoughts.
ReplyDeletePretty cool how blocking a receptor could "cure" a person of their addiction. Never really thought of that way. I feel like blocking a signal receptor though wouldn't do much. I'm sure the nicotine binds to other proteins and is involved in other systems
ReplyDeleteIt is also important to remember that although someone may be genetically susceptible for a nicotine addiction, environmental factors such as peer pressure or depression also come into play. But this is a really interesting study!
ReplyDeleteI work at a pharmacy and when Chantix first came out, prescriptions came piling in. But I've seen more and more patients who also start and stop the drug therapy rather quickly. Smoking is clearly a powerful addiction, now even more that it may be genetically wired into certain people.
ReplyDeleteIts been reported, on top of the terrible effects of Chantix, some individuals smoke more while taking it.
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