A new genetic mutation has been identified which appears to be linked to impulsive and reckless behaviour after consuming alcohol.
Researchers from the University of Helsinki, Finland, concentrated on the serotonin 2B receptor gene. A specific mutation of this gene has previously been linked to impulsivity, which is connected to a number of mental health problems. About 2.2% of the population of Finland, more than 100,000 people, carry the mutation.
The team, led by Dr Roope Tikkanen, undertook further analysis on carriers of the mutation and found a clear link to impulsive and reckless behaviour when drunk.
Details were published in the journal Translational Psychiatry.
Dr Tikkanen says: “The results also indicate that persons with this mutation are more impulsive by nature even when sober, and they are more likely to struggle with self-control or mood disorders.
“The impact of one gene on complex phenomena is typically minor. But it is possible to identify the impact of such a genetic mutation in the Finnish population, as our historical isolation has led to a relatively homogenous gene pool.”
The team hope to test this association in larger clinical samples of individuals who suffer from problems with impulse control. If the link is confirmed, they say that preventive measures could be taken, such as advising susceptible people to avoid alcohol. If necessary, carriers of the gene could be offered cognitive behavioural therapy to help alter their drinking behaviour.
Findings from the study will also help inform our understanding of how the expression of this gene is affected by the environment, and may help suggest targets for novel drug therapy.
Tikkanen, R. et al. Impulsive alcohol-related risk-behavior and emotional dysregulation among individuals with a serotonin 2B receptor stop codon. Translational Psychiatry 17 November 2015
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