Is Alcoholism Genetic?

Is Alcoholism a Genetic Disease?

Alcoholism and alcohol use disorder (AUD) is multifaceted and affects millions across the globe. There are many environmental factors involved in developing the disorder; however, there is also ample evidence that genetics plays a role in determining whether or not an individual is susceptible to alcoholism. The genetic components of alcoholism can inform practices of prevention, and intervention and allow us to target at-risk populations.

The Genetics of Alcoholism

Some studies have shown us that genetics can contribute to the risk of developing alcoholism. Twin and family studies show that individuals with a family history of alcohol use disorder are more likely to have alcohol related issues themselves, pointing to a familial allele. Furthermore, we can identify genes that perhaps determine how someone metabolizes alcohol and therefore their risk of developing a dependency. Changes in a couple of genes related to alcohol metabolism like: ADH1B and ALDH2, might create different physiological reactions to alcohol which would either increase or decrease the likelihood of an individual developing alcoholism.

Family Studies

Family studies have consistently shown that there is a familial link in the incidence of alcoholism. For example, children of alcoholics are at a greater risk (than the general population) for developing problems with alcohol misuse. This risk can be attributed to genetics, although many environmental factors must also be considered, including parental attitudes regarding alcohol consumption, social influences, and early exposure to alcohol. How these genetic vulnerabilities interact with environmental provocations can create a complex set of circumstances that lead to problematic alcohol use.

Twin Studies

Twin studies have added an additional layer of information regarding the genetic linkage with alcoholism. Studies comparing identical twins (that share around 100% of their genetics) to fraternal twins (that share around 50% of their genetics) found a significant rate of concordance for alcoholism between the identical twins. This indicates that genetics play a large role in risk for developing an alcohol use disorder. However, twin studies have also contributed to the understanding of epigenetics, whereby environmental factors impact the expression of genes without changing the actual gene itself.

This indicates that if a person has a genetic predisposition, their style of living and environmental circumstances will significantly determine whether or not they develop alcoholism or other alcohol use issues. Knowing of these different distinctions is crucial for developing strategies for prevention and treatment.

Specific Genes Related to Alcoholism

Scientists have located various genes that play a role in the development of alcohol use. These genes mediate metabolic processes and alterations in the production, transmission, and regulation of neurotransmitters (e.g., endorphins, dopamine, serotonin) in a variety of biological pathways. An understanding of these genetic factors gives a deeper understanding of why a person may be more susceptible to alcohol use disorders than another individual. Understanding these factors show the complex interaction between genetics and environmental influences, and how they impact health and other cognitive issues.

ADH and ALDH Genes

The alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) genes are important to our body’s alcohol metabolism. Variants in these genes will impact how alcohol is metabolized. Variants in the ALDH gene can sometimes cause excessive amounts of acetaldehyde to accumulate, which is a toxic by-product of ethanol metabolism. As acetaldehyde triggers unpleasant reactions in the body, individuals will discontinue to drink heavily. Certain populations have more genetic variants associated with these affects. For example, East Asians have higher variants of ALDH than other ethnicities and appear to drink less often, showing lower rates of alcohol-related health issues. The ALDH gene carries a protective effect against alcohol use and the development of alcoholism.

GABRA2 Gene

GABRA2 is yet another gene that has raised interest and is related to the regulation of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA is an important part of the brain’s reward system, and it can dictate how someone reacts to alcohol considering they are under its influence. The variations of GABRA2 gene variances seem to correlate with the risk of having alcohol dependency, suggesting that there is a genetic reason why some people seem to have more severe experiences with alcohol. Also shown was that GABRA2 gene variances appeared to interact with environmental influences, such as social dynamics and stress. This reinforces the idea that genetic disposition related to alcohol use disorder is undoubtedly influenced by environmental factors. The connection associated with GABRA2 genes related to anxiety and mood as well as alcohol usage reinforces how someone may use alcohol as a way to process anxiety and mood, deepening the complexity of understanding alcoholism.

The Role of Environment in Alcoholism

Genetics play a role in understanding the risk of developing alcoholism. However, it is important to acknowledge the role of environmental influences as well. Until recently, we placed the majority of emphasis on genetics in settling the question regarding the onset of alcohol use disorder: Is this genetic predisposition or is this environmental initiation (Based upon where you chose to focus)?

Environmental Triggers

Environmental changes can have big influence on when an individual will develop alcoholism by carrying out similar experience directly linked to their genetics, such as (experiencing) influences related to stress, peer pressure, and exposure to alcohol during early developmental age range.For example, an individual with a family history of alcohol use disorder may be at an even greater risk for developing problems if they are raised in an environment where abusive high levels of drinking at social gatherings is normalized.

Socioeconomic Influences

Socioeconomic status has an effect on the probability of developing hazardous drinking levels. People within lower socioeconomic strata frequently have multiple stressors, such as poverty and/or lack of access to mental health services. These stressors can lead to an increase in substance use. Cultural standards for drinking can also affect people’s perception of alcohol, creating variability of an interaction between genetic and environmental influences on drinking norms.

Contextualizing Alcoholism

Alcoholism is a complex disease that incorporates interactions between genetic, environmental, and psychological factors, and therefore, it is not correct to approach the issue as if a single factor is the reason for someone developing an alcohol use disorder.

Psychological Factors

Psychological factors may indicate an increased risk of developing a drinking problem, with many mental health issues being correlated with drinking. For example, people with anxiety disorders, mood disorders such as depressive disorders, or many other psychological disorders may use alcohol as a maladaptive coping strategy. This will complicate any inherited genetic or environmental risk interpretation, leading to a cycle of drinking and dependence that is difficult to overcome.

Preventing Alcohol Use Disorder

Identifying genetic risk factors associated with alcohol use disorder can lead to better prevention. Early intervention, education, and support for individuals with a family history of alcohol use disorder can help reduce risk. Community programs and resources that encourage healthy coping mechanisms, however, can also provide prevention strategies.

Conclusion

Overall, genetics plays a significant role in developing alcohol use disorder; however, genetics is not the only factor involved. Alcoholism is influenced by the interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Better understanding this interplay may provide better prevention and treatment strategies to help those vulnerable individuals avoid alcohol use disorder, and hopefully lead healthier lives.

While research continues to develop conscious awareness of genetic, and environmental factors of alcohol use disorder may help distill better interventions, and illuminate the obstacles facing the alcoholic.