Genetic variation among alcohol-metabolizing genes has been well studied with respect to their role in affecting predisposition to alcohol dependence.34 A functional variant in aldehyde dehydrogenase type 2 (ALDH2), predominantly observed among Asian populations, produces a reduced capacity to metabolize acetaldehyde and a physiologic flushing response and is believed to contribute to the aversion to alcohol consumption.35 Genetic variants among the class I alcohol dehydrogenases have also been implicated in modulating levels of alcohol intake.35 These findings suggest that alcohol metabolism does influence susceptibility to alcohol use disorders. Prospective studies have been pursued to evaluate the role of variation in alcohol metabolism on risk of alcohol dependence.13,33 Overall, there is evidence suggesting that genes that affect alcohol pharmacokinetics are likely to contribute to the levels of alcohol consumption by individuals.
