The number of drug users in the United States today is over 15 million according to the World Health Organization (
WHO). This astonishing statistic grows daily along with the amounts of drugs that are used. The lost path of the users at one point matched the lost path of the scientists looking for answers about addiction. Within the past decade, studies have increased in finding specific genetic information in regards to drug addiction. There are currently 11 chromosomes that have connections to substance addiction. In addition, there has been a connection with addiction in certain genes as well including GABRA2, ANKK1, neurexin 1, neurexin 3, and aldehyde dehydrogenase. These chromosomes and genes that have been studied display a connection amongst more than one specific substance. For future studies, scientists hope to find more information on the genes connected to this issue as well as the nature of each of them.
The use of genetics in addiction studies could help to eliminate these upsetting statistics. In the future, scientists could use these genes connected to addiction in order to help find better treatment options. Currently, many treatment options are pharmaceuticals that are not fixing the solution as addicts are still able to manipulate these drugs. Through the isolation of these genes, hopefully more natural cures could be found as well as preventative options for those predisposed to powerful substance addictions.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090310142912.htm
It is very unfortunate for babies to be born with an addiction for which they themselves are not responsible. Research on the genes that are associated with addiction can help to battle addiction at what may be the source, or at least a contributor of the issue.
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ReplyDeleteWith the amount of babies born everyday addicted to drugs because of their mother's own addictions, how could researches NOT want to put time and effort into this. The future of the world depends on the children of today, and too many of them are born with serious complications due to their mother's abusive drug use. I have worked with these just these types of children and it is heartbreaking to see their day to day struggles- which stemmed from a decision that which they had no choice in.
ReplyDeleteI also believe that treating drug abusers with more drugs is a bit redundant. Therefore, if scientists believe they can fix the problem on a genetic basis, then I am all for that.