U.K. Researchers Link Gene with Alcohol Use

People with a variant of the dopamine receptor gene known as DRD2 may be more prone to excessive alcohol use than those who lack the gene, the BBC reported March 17.

Researchers from the University of Bristol and the University of Oxford looked at alcohol-consumption and genetic data on 1,000 people and concluded that those with the DRD2 gene variant may get more pleasure from drinking, possibly making them more prone to drinking. Drinking habits and susceptibility to alcoholism also may have genetic components, the researchers said.

The gene controls chemical signaling in the brain.

"Understanding genetic influences ... is important if we are to understand why some people are more likely to become addicted," said lead researcher Marcus Munafo.