J Korean Soc Biol Psychiatry.  2002 Jul;9(1):15-24.

Polymorphisms of the Dopamine Receptor Genes in Alcoholism

• Ryu SH

Abstract

Even though alcoholism is a multi-factorial psychiatric disorder, it is reasonable to suppose that genetic factors play a substantial role in the manifestation of this disorder. Because alcohol is the reinforcing substance which manifests its effects through activation of the mesolimbic dopaminergic reward pathway of the brain, the gene encoding dopamine receptor subtypes can be major natural candidate gene. Since 1990, many association studies have identified strong evidence implicating the dopamine D2 receptor(DRD2) gene in alcoholism, specifically Taq A minor(A1) allele. Association studied have also been conducted on other dopamine receptor(DRD3 & DRD4) polymorphisms but the results have yet to be confirmed. Through a number of other approaches, each dopamine receptor gene has been investigated in association with different phenotypes in alcoholism, but further researches will be needed. In conclusion, studies in the past decade have shown that the Taq A1 allele of the DRD2 gene is associated with alcoholism in various subject groups. Other dopamine receptor genes have since been added to the list but yet to be identified. Thus, the knowledge of these genes and their functional significance will enhance the understanding of the underlying biological mechanisms of alcoholism. Furthermore, it could lead to move helpful prevention and treatment approaches to alcoholism.

MeSH Terms

Alcoholism*
Alleles
Brain
Dopamine*
Phenotype
Receptors, Dopamine*
Reward
Dopamine
Receptors, Dopamine