The Genetics of Addiction

As of date, there is no one 100% scientific fact that a certain gene condemns you to becoming addicted to drugs or alcohol at birth. However, scientist do say that there are numerous genes that can play a role in addiction but none powerful enough to make you a predetermined addict. .

When you hear the term “Genetic Model” in regards to addiction, the specialist is looking for those genes pronounced to play a role in addiction growth. As stated before, scientist believes there are several genes that can play a role in addiction such as the A1 allele of the dopamine receptor DRD2. This particular gene is thought to play a role in addiction problems with alcohol, cocaine, and compulsive gambling. Depending on the genes present and the percentage of people who share this gene with a particular addiction determines who may thought to be at a higher risk for that particular addiction.

Once an addiction receptiveness gene is identified, research then looks at how this gene affects the brain’s circuitry and influences a predisposition for drug use, abuse, dependence, and withdrawal. The idea behind it is to create a drug that can block, turn off, or reverse the function of that gene. Researchers are learning more and more about how genes influence various aspects of ones life and are showing some promises in the field of drug addiction. However, genes alone are not responsible for drug abuse or addiction. Other factors come into play such as environment and mental and physical well-being.

If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/

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