Gene Mutation Linked with Drug Abuse

By Robert Cervin, | Health | 0 Comments

A natural variation in a human gene may contribute to drug and alcohol addiction, research suggests. The gene encodes an enzyme called fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). FAAH breaks down the brain’s natural cannabinoids - substances that function at the same brain locations as the psychoactive component of marijuana-and is suspected to be involved in reward and addiction pathways in the brain. Therefore, a mutation in this gene might contribute to drug and alcohol addiction.

Researchers from The Scripps Research Institute looked for a particular mutation in this gene among research subjects who reported problems with drugs and alcohol. The researchers found that people who have two copies of the mutated FAAH gene are more likely to have drug abuse problems than people with only one copy of the mutant gene or two normal copies of the FAAH gene.

The researchers also found that the enzyme encoded by the mutant gene is structurally and metabolically normal, but is more easily degraded by other enzymes than the normal enzyme. Although it remains to be demonstrated, the authors speculate that this mutation could lead to changes in FAAH levels in humans, suggesting a mechanism linking the mutation with the associated behavioral effects. Although many other environmental and genetic factors are undoubtedly involved, this work is an important initial step toward understanding the specific genetic factors contributing to addiction.