About NIDA
Genetics Workgroup
Evidence from adoption and twin studies and from animal
models suggests that vulnerability to addiction has a moderate to high
heritable component. The gene variants underlying increased vulnerability
to addiction are unknown, but new advances in science and technology
will facilitate the identification and characterization of these gene
variants. Like many other psychiatric illnesses, drug abuse and dependence
comprise a complex set of genetic disorders lacking a simple pattern
of Mendelian inheritance. Multiple genes with relatively small effects
are likely to influence vulnerability to addiction, gene x environment
x development interactions appear to play significant roles in mediating
outcomes, and there may be no simple correspondence between current phenotypes
and the genotype(s). Therefore, a broad range of scientific approaches
will be needed to elucidate the role and identity of genetic factors
in drug abuse vulnerability.
The NIDA Genetics Workgroup is an Institute-wide group
of NIDA staff involved in coordinating a variety of activities directed
towards the enhancement of NIDA's grant portfolio in the following areas:
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Human genetics
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Population genetics
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Molecular genetics
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Genetic epidemiology
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Molecular epidemiology
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Satistical genetics
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Model genetic organisms
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Genes and development
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Pharmacogenetics
The workgroup strives to 1) develop avenues of research
through program announcements and requests for applications, 2) sponsor
seminars and speakers to inform NIDA of new areas in genetic research,
and 3) develop staff knowledge in areas of genetics research as it pertains
to NIDA's overall mission to lead the nation in bringing the power of
science to bear on drug abuse and addiction.
The elucidation of genetic factors as well as their
interactions with behavioral, social, and physical environments and how
they relate to specific phenotypes is a critical component in determining
addiction vulnerabilities and will ultimately facilitate diagnosis, treatment,
and prevention.
Contact:
Jonathan D. Pollock, Ph.D.
Chair, NIDA Genetics Workgroup
6001 Executive Drive, RM 4274
Bethesda, MD 20892
Tel. 301-435-1309
Fax. 301-594-6043 |
