Novel study explores how different types of genetic risk impact the manifestation of alcohol use disorder
Multiple types of genetic influence affect the severity and presentation of alcohol use disorder (AUD), according to what may be the first study examining the joint effects of three types of genetic liability on alcohol outcomes. About half the risk for AUD is known to be genetically inherited. Some genetic influences manifest as struggles with self-regulation, such as childhood conduct problems…
A groundbreaking study published in Alcohol: Clinical & Experimental Research investigates how various genetic risk factors influence the development and manifestation of alcohol use disorder (AUD). The research, conducted on 6,883 adults of European ancestry, reveals that distinct genetic influences, categorized as externalizing, internalizing, and alcohol-specific, jointly shape AUD and associated behavioral and personality traits.
Approximately 60% of study participants met criteria for AUD, with those who had a high overall polygenic score (PGS) across multiple genetic risk dimensions experiencing more severe AUD symptoms. Individuals with high PGS in multiple genetic categories exhibited greater overall risk for AUD compared to those with high PGS in fewer categories or lower PGS. However, externalizing genetic liability was associated with a higher overall risk than internalizing genetic liability.
The study found that the type of genetic risk carried by AUD individuals significantly impacted their patterns of co-occurring disorders and traits. Those with high externalizing PGS were more likely to have childhood conduct problems and antisocial personality disorder, while those with high internalizing PGS were more prone to depression and neuroticism. These patterns suggest that genetic risk influences both the severity of AUD and the likelihood of developing co-occurring conditions.
The findings emphasize the complex interplay between genetically influenced risk pathways for AUD and highlight the dominant role of externalizing genetic risk factors, particularly when combined with other high PGS categories. The research suggests that polygenic risk scoring (PGS) could potentially predict AUD risk early in life and may help shape clinical presentations and co-occurring issues based on the type(s) of genetic risk present.
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