The molecular mechanism underlying the association of a naturally occurring mutation in rats with very low tolerance to alcohol has been identified, and it may help researchers identify people at risk for alcohol dependency and treated addicted patients better, according to an article published online on February 6th by Nature Neuroscience.

The American researchers found that the mutation makes gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) receptors significantly more responsive to alcohol. The presence of alcohol in the central nervous system inhibits and distorts communication among neurons.

Future studies are needed to see if tolerance to alcohol is genetically determined in people. If so, it may be possible in the future to identify children and adults at higher risk of developing alcohol dependency, so these individuals can make an informed decision about whether to drink.

The study results may also speed the development of new drugs that target alcohol-sensitive GABA receptors, leading to better treatments for alcohol poisoning and addiction.