for) the ADH1B*1 allele still had significant blood ethanol concentrations (BECs), whereas those who carried at least one ADH1B*2 allele had very low BECs, consistent with a more rapid ethanol metabolism by ADH1B*2 (Yokoyama et al. 2007). The current model posits that more rapid oxidation of ethanol at least transiently elevates acetaldehyde levels in one or more tissues. Because acetaldehyde has toxic or at least unpleasant effects on the body, leading to a flushing response after alcohol consumption, this acetaldehyde accumulation is thought to produce aversion that tends to limit heavy alcohol consumption by people who carry at least one ADH1B*2 allele.
