Adolescent Substance Abuse Articles
Identification of genes may lead to new alcoholism treatments
By Staff Writer
Binge drinking, or the excessive use of alcohol, can lead to several health problems, including injuries, sexually transmitted diseases and neurological damage, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
However, a recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Maryland School of Medicine have identified two genes associated with binge drinking. These new findings may lead to more effective forms of substance abuse help.
In the study, researchers manipulated two brain receptors, known as GABA and TLR4. These actions were shown to have the potential for reducing anxiety and controlling cravings. In addition, there was little to no risk of developing an alcohol addiction.
The researchers said compounds exist that can stimulate the receptors just as they had done over the course of their research. If this approach receives further exploration, there is a chance that it could lead to new therapies for treating binge drinking.
These compounds would stand in for alcohol similarly to how methadone serves as a substitute for heroin. It is the hope that alcoholics would receive relief from their cravings and anxiety as they work to abstain from drinking.
