Genes, Age, and Alcoholism: Analysis of GAW14 Data
Author Information
Author(s): Victor Apprey, Joseph Afful, Jules P. Harrell, Robert E. Taylor, George E. Bonney
Primary Institution: Howard University
Hypothesis
The study investigates the genetic factors influencing the age of onset of alcoholism.
Conclusion
The markers tsc0041591 and tsc0512083 on chromosome 2 and tsc0894042 on chromosome 3 showed strong or suggestive linkage for alcoholism, with significant effects observed among smokers.
Supporting Evidence
- The analysis identified five markers associated with the age of onset of alcoholism.
- Male smokers carrying the risk allele of marker tsc0041591 had an average onset of ALDX1 almost 5 years earlier than non-carriers.
- The mean age of onset for all ALDX1 cases was 22.18 for males and 23.18 for females.
Takeaway
This study found that certain genes can make people start drinking alcohol at a younger age, especially if they smoke.
Methodology
The study used a log-normal age of onset model and performed association and linkage analyses on genetic markers.
Limitations
The analysis may have missed important markers due to a conservative strategy of analysis.
Participant Demographics
The sample included 1,614 individuals from 143 pedigrees, with 643 affected and 735 unaffected individuals.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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