J Korean Med Assoc.  2006 Feb;49(2):108-113. 10.5124/jkma.2006.49.2.108.

The Biology of Alcohol Dependence

• Lee BO

• KMID: 2184658
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2006.49.2.108

Abstract

Alcohol dependence (AD) is a chronically relapsing disease and has various biological etiologies. Neither genetics nor neurobiology explains the pathogenesis of AD exclusively. AD is a multifactorial disease. This article reviews the genetic and biological aspects of AD. Many candidate genes and neurotransmitters play important roles in AD. Further studies are needed to elucidate the biological mechanisms of AD. Also the treatment of AD should be individualized according to the patients's biological characteristics.

Keyword

Alcohol Dependence; Neurobiology; Genetics

MeSH Terms

Alcoholism*
Biology*
Genetics
Neurobiology
Neurotransmitter Agents
Population Characteristics
Neurotransmitter Agents

Figure

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  Figure 1 Neurotransmitters involved in reward circuit of alcohol

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  Figure 2 Brain regions involved in reward system

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