Potential Associations among Genetic Markers in the Serotonergic System and the Antisocial Alcoholism Subtype

Authors

E. M. Hill, University of Detroit Mercy and University of Michigan-Ann ArborFollow
S. F. Stoltenberg, University of Michigan-Ann ArborFollow
M. Burmeister, University of Michigan-Ann ArborFollow
M. Closser, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
R. A. Zucker, University of Michigan-Ann ArborFollow

Document Type

Article

Date of this Version

1999

Citation

Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology 7:2 (1999), pp. 103–121.

doi: 10.1037/1064-1297.7.2.103

Comments

Copyright © 1999 American Psychological Association, Inc. Used by permission.

Abstract

Alcoholism is transmitted in families. The complexity and heterogeneity of this disorder has made it difficult to identify specific genetic correlates. One design with the potential to do so is the family-based association study, in which the frequencies of genetic polymorphisms are compared between affected and nonaffected members. Reduced central serotonin neurotransmission is associated with features of an antisocial subtype of alcoholism, although a primary deficit has not been traced to a particular component. Genetic markers related to the serotonergic system have been identified, located, and cloned. If associations can be discovered, the development process for pharmacotherapy could be facilitated. In this review, the evidence for the involvement of the serotonergic system in antisocial alcoholism is examined, and the potential for family-based association studies to identify specific components that may be involved is discussed.