Russian scientists discovered gene of alcoholism

UFA, 26 December 2018. /Bashinform News Agency, / translated by Tatiana Aksyutina/.

Russian scientists have discovered several previously unknown variations of genes found in heavy drinkers of Russia. Their findings are published in the electronic library biorxiv.org, the press service of the Genotek Medical Genetic Center reports.

In recent years, scientists have found that alcoholism does not develop because of a weak will or some other character problems. The reason is a mutation of genes responsible for processing ethanol and the work of certain parts of the "reward center" and other parts of the brain associated with self-control and impulsive behavior.

For example, the most severe forms of alcohol dependence and the tendency to drinking bouts were related to the mutations that are present in the PDRM2 gene, which controls the development of brain cells. Similar problems arise in carriers of certain versions of the KLB gene, which is responsible for the reaction of the nervous system to sugary foods.

Such discoveries revived scientists' interest in creating drugs that would correct the work of such DNA segments and related proteins and parts of the brain. They will help alcoholics to get rid of an addiction or prevent its development.