Study finds gene contributing to cocaine addiction

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by Change | 11 Nov 2008

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Research has found a genetic marker which is more common among those engaging in cocaine abuse, suggesting a hereditary element to the condition.

Analysing genes might help predict who is most at risk of cocaine addiction, new research suggests.

The study - led by professor of psychopharmacology at the Central Institute of Mental Health Rainer Spanagel - found those engaged in cocaine abuse were 25 per cent more likely to share a genetic marker.

Initially identified through experiments on mice, the result could allow cocaine addiction counselling to be targeted at those who need it most.

The segment of DNA the study suggests is connected to the problem is a variation of CAMK4.

Mr Spanagel claims carrying the gene increases the likelihood of those who use the drug becoming dependant.

"You can certainly use this as a vulnerability marker for cocaine addiction," he states.

The sample for the study was 670 cocaine addicts and a corresponding control group which did not use the chemical.

It is believed genetic factors affect dependency on the substance to a greater extent than with alcohol abuse and it is suggested 70 per cent are influenced through these predispositions.

Twin studies have placed the genetic factors involved in developing an alcohol abuse problem at approximately 50 per cent.

In recent news, £800,000 of cocaine was seized at an airport in the city of Edinburgh, the largest interception the force has ever made.

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