How genetic variations in neuroactive steroid-producing enzymes may influence drinking habits

One of the ways in which alcohol dependence (AD) may develop is through alcohol's effects on neural signaling, such as modulation of γ-aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA) receptors. Alcohol may indirectly modulate GABAA receptor function by increasing levels of neuroactive steroids in blood. A new study has found linkages between AD and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genes encoding two key enzymes required for the generation of endogenous neuroactive steroids, which suggests a genetic link between neuroactive steroids and risk for AD.

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