Genetic differences that make you sleepy when you drink can also protect against alcohol dependence

Tuesday, May 4, 2010 - 17:40 in Health & Medicine

Genetic differences in alcohol-metabolizing enzymes can significantly alter an individual's risk for developing alcohol dependence (AD). One variant of the alcohol dehydrogenase enzyme, ADH1B*3, is observed almost exclusively in populations with African ancestry and has also been associated with reduced rates of AD. A new study has found that greater levels of sedation in African Americans with ADH1B*3 may explain their lower rates of AD.

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