Genetic Aspects of Alcohol Use and Alcoholism in Women

G studies are a crucial component of alcohol research. These studies attempt to quan­ tify genetic influences on problem drinking; characterize patterns of inheritance; and, ultimately, identify the gene or genes that confer susceptibili­ ty to alcoholism. Results of such research have important implications for the pre­ vention, early detection, and treatment of alcoholism. There is reason to believe that the factors influencing alcohol use in general, and alcoholism in particular,1 are not the same in women as in men (National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alco­ holism [NIAAA] 1993). Nevertheless, research on the genetics of alcoholism has traditionally used male subjects or has pooled the data in a manner that obscures gender differences. Genetic factors may influence gender differences in alcohol use and alcoholism in two ways. First, the same genetic influ­