Alcohol dependence results from a complex interaction of changing genetic and environmental liabilities across development. Genetic studies have successfully used these endophenotypes to reveal significantly associated SNPs from the same genes that are also associated with alcohol dependence and related disorders. Thus, genes underlying the variations in endophenotypes are also associated with the disease. Therefore, understanding genetic control of brain electrical activity can provide clues about cerebral function and also shed light on mechanisms involved in psychiatric disorders, such as AUDs, where impairment in brain electrical activity is apparent. Prospective studies of young individuals with “risk genotypes” can lead to an improved understanding of how neural and cognitive changes contribute to susceptibility across development, which in turn can lead to the design of well-targeted prevention initiatives.
