This article by Randy Dotinga discussed how a genetic trait
is linked to alcoholism. It’s suggested that variations in the genetic makeup
of alcoholics can affect how much they consume. Scientists believe that the key
might be the brain’s control of serotonin. Dr. Robert Philibert, director of
the Laboratory of Psychiatric Genetics at the University of Iowa, said the
genetic blueprint that people inherit from their parents account for an
estimated 40-50% of a person’s risk of becoming an alcoholic. Scientist looked
at the DNA of 275 alcoholics who had sought treatment. Almost 80% of them were
men and all were of European descent. The researchers found that the
differences in the gene that affect serotonin levels in the brain coincided
with the amount of alcohol consumed by the drinkers. The scientists believe
that serotonin is crucial to human moods and emotions. Low levels of serotonin
can lead to depression. This article is controversial because there hasn’t been
enough research to prove that serotonin is responsible for alcoholism. This research could help doctors understand
who might be at higher risk of becoming an alcoholic and help treat the person.
Wow! I would have never related alcohol intake to serotonin. After reading this article and blog, I can say I learned something new. It is an interesting assumption that his is the main cause for it, and I am sorta torn. Part of me does believe that alcoholism is in the genetic make up of an individual, and on the other hand I think it may be a persons life styles and choices that just lead to addiction. I know people who are so called "working alcoholics" and I believe they're body just gets to a point where their body can tolerate alot of alcohol and still function normally because of a heavily drinking routine. It's almost like their body gets immune to alcohol.
ReplyDeleteThis needs to researched more immediately because alcoholism affects many people in this country and if it I caused by a low levels of a hormone or any gene we need to find a way to reverse its affect. I know people whose parents are alcoholics and they will refuse to drink any type of alcohol because they feel like they will be hooked to it too. I used to think they just didn't want to be like their parents but it might be because they know they will end up like their parents.
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