Genetic factors of tobacco use disorder

 

Unlocking the Genetic factors of tobacco use disorder

 

Researchers at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine have made significant strides in understanding tobacco use disorder by analyzing electronic health records. Their study, published in Nature Human Behavior, has unveiled hundreds of new genes associated with the disorder, as well as numerous potential drug candidates for treatment. Revealing the Hidden Genetic factors of tobacco use disorder- "A Breakthrough Study"

 

"Tobacco use disorder has a profound impact on public health," explained Dr. Sandra Sanchez-Roige, an associate professor in the Department of Psychiatry at UC San Diego School of Medicine. "However, its underlying genetics remain poorly understood, making therapeutic development challenging."

Globally, approximately 1.3 billion people use tobacco, with 80% residing in low and middle-income countries. The health ramifications extend beyond users themselves, with tobacco-related deaths surpassing 8 million annually, including 1.3 million from secondhand smoke exposure.

 

Defined criteria for tobacco use encompass various behaviors, such as excessive consumption and continued use despite adverse effects. While genes linked to nicotine consumption are known, the transition to tobacco use disorder remains unclear.

 

Dr. Sanchez-Roige's team leveraged extensive electronic health data from multiple U.S. health systems, facilitated by the PsycheMERGE Network. Using genome-wide association analysis, they identified 461 candidate risk genes, predominantly expressed in the brain. These genes also correlate with other psychiatric and medical conditions, including HIV infection and heart disease.

 

Moreover, the study validates previous findings related to smoking behaviors. Additionally, it highlights the potential of electronic health records as a rich data source for genetic research, advocating for their increased utilization in medical studies.

 

In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of electronic health records in unraveling the genetic complexities of tobacco use disorder or Genetic factors of tobacco use disorder, offering hope for future therapeutic advancements.