Numerous developments, such as the increasing identification of human genes and their functions, the sequencing of the entire human genome, and the development of new analytic techniques to detect linkage, have resulted in a surge in genetic studies. These advances provide the tools that allow researchers to study the genetic basis of common, complex disorders, such as smoking and alcohol dependence. In addition to these ongoing genetic analyses, researchers are exploring other characteristics thought to be related to the susceptibility for developing alcohol-related problems, including personality traits and various measures of the brain’s electrical activity (e.g., electroencephalograms and event-related potentials). An integration of these results from multiple correlated domains, along with further genetic findings, will improve researchers’ understanding of the mechanisms and risk factors underlying the development of alcohol dependence and habitual smoking.
