For over 70 years, scientists have been researching into the possible causes of addiction within humans. Addiction experts from the University of Virginia Health System and the University of Michigan have revealed, in a paper to be published in the April 2009 issue of Nature Reviews Genetics, that they have found common genes linking alcohol dependence with that of multiple other addictions, including nicotine, cocaine, opoids, cannabis and heroin. Ming Li, Ph.D. professor of psychiatry and neurobehavioral sciences at the UVA School of Medicine, has “found that several genes are linked with multiple addictions.”
The new landmark paper reveals the specific genomic locations on 11 chromosomes where Li and Margit Burmeister, Ph.D. have uncovered the links between multiple addictions. “Once researchers can pinpoint exact genetic variants and molecular mechanisms, then we can create much more effective... treatments for individuals addicted to a variety of substances.” (Ming Li, 2009) Future research into genetic addictions will most probably be concentrated at gene clusters and their functionality.
References:
University of Virginia Health System (2009, March 16). Common Genes Tied To Alcohol, Nicotine, Cocaine Addictions. ScienceDaily. Retrieved March 22, 2009, from http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090310142912.htm#
