Differential neural response to alcohol priming and alcohol taste cues is associated with DRD4 VNTR and OPRM1 genotypes.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Studies suggest that polymorphisms in the D4 dopamine receptor (DRD4) and opioid receptor, mu 1 (OPRM1) genes are involved in differential response to the effects of alcohol and to alcohol cues. However, to date, the mechanisms that underlie these differences remain largely unknown.

Methods

Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, hemodynamic response in mesocorticolimbic structures after exposure to alcohol tastes was contrasted with a control taste and compared between DRD4 variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR) genotypes and OPRM1 A118G genotypes. Additionally, the effects of a priming dose of alcohol on this response were examined.

Results

The results indicated that DRD4 VNTR >7 repeat individuals (DRD4.L) had significantly greater response to alc

SUBMITTER: Filbey FM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2856650 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature