We published a comprehensive review of the genetics of alcoholism over a decade ago [1]. Since then, there have been significant advances in techniques available for mapping genes and as a result considerable changes in outlook have occurred. It is now generally accepted that genetic risk for alcoholism is likely to be due to common variants in numerous genes, each of small effect, however rare variants with large effects might also play a role. After years of family-based linkage studies and case-control candidate gene studies, attention has shifted to large scale genome-wide association studies (GWAS) for the detection of novel common variants (≥ 1%). Exome and whole genome sequencing studies for the detection of rare variants are beginning to emerge. However, it should be borne in mind that no matter how sophisticated genetic techniques might become, further advances in detecting genotype – phenotype associations are hampered by the fact that alcoholism is a heterogeneous phenotype.

When a person drinks alcohol, several of the brain’s neurotransmitters, or chemical messengers that help to regulate mood and central nervous system functions, are affected. Addiction is also classified as a behavioral disease with social implications. As a complex disease, alcoholism has many potential contributing factors, including genetics. NIAAA reports that around half of the risk of alcoholism can be linked to genetics, meaning that the disease is considered to be at least partially hereditary and can run in families. This does not mean that just because you have a parent or sibling who struggles with alcoholism, you will, too.

Understanding the Genetic Link To Alcoholism

Getting DNA testing can show your ancestry, but it doesn’t determine your character. The most robust finding for genetic influences on alcoholism remains with genes encoding ethanol metabolizing enzymes. These genetic variants have a high prevalence in East Asians and protect against the development of alcoholism. There are also countless environmental factors (work, stress, relationships) that may lead to alcoholism. If you feel that you sometimes drink too much alcohol, or your drinking is causing problems, or if your family is concerned about your drinking, talk with your health care provider. Other ways to get help include talking with a mental health professional or seeking help from a support group such as Alcoholics Anonymous or a similar type of self-help group.

Over the past decade there have been tremendous advances in large scale SNP genotyping technologies allowing for genome-wide associations studies (GWAS). As a result, it is now recognized that genetic risk for alcoholism is likely to be due to common variants in very many genes, each of small effect, although rare variants with large effects might also play a role. This has resulted in a paradigm shift away from gene centric studies towards analyses of gene interactions and gene https://ecosoberhouse.com/ networks within biologically relevant pathways. The results of this study should be interpreted in light of some of the limitations. Firstly, although the majority of our findings were validated in the external CKB cohort, we were unable to replicate our findings demonstrating an association of PRS with ARC in this cohort. This is likely a consequence of insufficient statistical power, although it may also reflect decreased utility of the PRS in non-European populations.

Genes vs. Environment

While alcoholism has a strong genetic component, other factors like environment, mental health, and more can impact someone’s chances of becoming an alcoholic. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol abuse, The Recovery Village is here to help. Our individualized treatment programs help people recover from alcohol addiction and begin the path toward a happier, healthier life. Contact us today to learn more about addiction recovery programs that can work well for your needs. Research is proving that alcoholism is a complex genetic disease, and there are many genes that affect its risks.

• Secondly, our cohort was also insufficiently powered for three-way interactions and, consequently, these analyses must be considered exploratory, although two additive interactions were replicated and we believe are robust.
• The AUDIT, a 10-item, self-reported test was developed by the World Health Organization as a screen for hazardous and harmful drinking and can be used as a total (AUDIT-T), AUDIT-Consumption (AUDIT-C) and AUDIT-Problems (AUDIT-P) sub-scores.
• Extensive study of the alcohol
  metabolizing genes has demonstrated their important role in disease risk.
• NIAAA reports that around half of the risk of alcoholism can be linked to genetics, meaning that the disease is considered to be at least partially hereditary and can run in families.
• Some who have inherited genes making them susceptible to alcoholism are responsible drinkers or never take a drink in their life.

Repetitive behavior like this can make you more vulnerable to developing alcoholism. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical is alcoholism hereditary advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers. As it relates to alcoholism, genes, environment and social interaction can all affect a person’s risk level for alcohol addiction.