In 1990, Blum et al.
proposed an association between the A1 allele of the DRD2 gene and alcoholism.
The DRD2 gene was the first candidate gene that showed promise of an association with alcoholism.
Dylan M Howell Photography / Getty Images
A study in Sweden followed alcohol use in twins who were adopted as children and reared apart.
The incidence of alcoholism was slightly higher among people who were exposed to alcoholism only through their adoptive families.
According to scientists, drunken drosophila fruit flies behave the same way humans do when they are drunk.
The two strains show markedly different behavior when exposed to identical amounts of alcohol.
“Short sleepers” are mice that are genetically less sensitive to alcohol.
They seem to lose fewer inhibitions and tolerate alcohol for longer before they pass out.
What Percentage of Someones Genetic Background May Contribute to Alcohol Dependency?
Genes only make up about 50% of your risk for alcoholism.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
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