Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Beta-endorphin
http://www.gulfnews.com/world/General/10095953.html
Beta-endorphin, a pain-relieving chemical the body releases in response to alcohol intake and other stimuli.
Researchers have identified a gene variation that seems to influence a person's craving for alcohol, a finding they believe could have important implications for identifying at-risk drinkers as well as for selecting the best treatment for a patient's dependence.
The gene mutation involves a cell structure called the mu-opioid receptor. In previous studies, this receptor has been shown to bind beta-endorphin, a pain-relieving chemical the body releases in response to alcohol intake and other stimuli.
Further research has shown that when the gene variant, or the "G allele", is present, the receptor binds to beta-endorphin more strongly than when the more common "A allele" is present.
Beta-endorphin, a pain-relieving chemical the body releases in response to alcohol intake and other stimuli.
Researchers have identified a gene variation that seems to influence a person's craving for alcohol, a finding they believe could have important implications for identifying at-risk drinkers as well as for selecting the best treatment for a patient's dependence.
The gene mutation involves a cell structure called the mu-opioid receptor. In previous studies, this receptor has been shown to bind beta-endorphin, a pain-relieving chemical the body releases in response to alcohol intake and other stimuli.
Further research has shown that when the gene variant, or the "G allele", is present, the receptor binds to beta-endorphin more strongly than when the more common "A allele" is present.
Subscribe to Posts [Atom]