Genes and Alcoholism: Taste, Addiction, and Metabolism

Abstract

Abstract Several genes are involved in the development of alcohol addiction. However, differences in the distribution of genetic variants of bitter taste receptors, (TASR238), dopaminergic transmission pathways (DRD2), and alcohol-metabolizing enzymes (ADH, ALDH, CYP2E1) affect alcohol consumption and addiction. Furthermore, excessive drinking is often accompanied with the intake of unhealthy foods that elicit the brain reward system. As a consequence, alcoholics are at high risk of being overweight or obese due to genetic marks of uncontrolled behaviors. On the other hand, the global range of drinks and differences in races and cultures may also influence the pattern of alcohol consumption. Hence, the combination of genetic and environmental factors may increase the risk for addiction problems and alcohol-related diseases in certain populations.