That’s enough for me: Scientists discover gene that influences drinking habits
By
Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 9:33 AM on 5th April 2011
A gene that influences drinking habits has been discovered by scientists.
Researchers found that people with a rarer version of the gene consume, on average, 5 per cent less alcohol than those with the more common variety.
The gene, known as AUTS2, has previously been linked to autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Its normal function is not known.
Just a little bit: Genes play an important role in how much a person drinks
AUTS2 is most active in parts of the brain associated with 'reward' mechanisms that respond to pleasurable stimuli.
Until now only one gene, controlling the breakdown of alcohol in the liver, was known to have a significant impact on drinking.
But scientists believe other genes must play an active role in determining desire for alcohol.
Professor Paul Elliott, from the School of Public Health at Imperial College London, said: 'Of course, there are a lot of factors that affect how much alcohol a person drinks, but we know from twin studies that genes play an important role.
'The difference that this particular gene makes is only small, but by finding it we've opened up a new area of research into the biological mechanisms that control drinking.'
Another big night? The research may help the prevention of alcohol abuse (Posed by model)
The scientists analysed DNA samples from more than 26,000 volunteers in search of genes that appear to affect alcohol consumption.
They then checked their findings against results from another 21,000 people.
The version of the gene associated with lower levels of drinking was more active, according to the research reported in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
Further research on mice showed variations in AUTS2 activity in different animals that drank more or less alcohol.
The scientists also found that blocking the effects of a related gene in fruit flies made the insects less alcohol-sensitive.
Co-author Professor Gunter Schumann, from the Institute of Psychiatry at King's College London, said: 'In this study we combine genetic studies with investigations of animal behaviour.
'Since people drink alcohol for very different reasons, understanding the particular behaviour influenced by the gene identified helps us better understand the biological basis of these reasons.
'This is an important first step towards the development of individually targeted prevention and treatments for alcohol abuse and addiction.'
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- Organisations:
- Imperial College London
Its probably linked to whos round is to get the drinks ?
- Joe Soap, Mercia, 06/4/2011 10:31
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