Alcohol addiction is a significant issue, and understanding why people become addicted is crucial. Researchers at King's College London have explored this topic, and their findings have been published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. They have identified a gene, RASGRF-2, that may influence people's preference for alcohol. This research connects genetics, brain chemistry, and alcohol consumption.
The study focuses on the role of dopamine, a neurotransmitter in the brain. Dopamine is released when people experience pleasure, such as eating delicious food or listening to favorite music. It also helps alleviate pain. Researchers found that the RASGRF-2 gene might cause more dopamine release when alcohol is consumed, making people feel happier. Those with this gene may experience a more significant increase in dopamine after drinking, enhancing the feeling of pleasure.
To understand the cause of alcohol addiction, researchers studied 663 individuals around the age of 14. They discovered that young people with the RASGRF-2 gene were more likely to drink alcohol frequently compared to those without the gene. Professor Gunter Schumann, who led the study, explains that other genes and environmental factors also play a crucial role in promoting alcohol consumption. It's important to note that alcohol consumption is linked to the deaths of approximately 2.6 million people worldwide each year.
