multiple genetic factors for alcohol dependence

• 7133 personally interviewed male and female twins from the Virginia Adult Twin Study of Psychiatric and Substance Use Disorders
• The first genetic factor was defined by high loadings for the probe question about quantity and frequency of alcohol consumption, and tolerance criterion.
• The second genetic factor loaded strongly on the probe question about self-recognition of alcohol-related problems and AD criteria for loss of control, desire to quit, preoccupation and activities given up.
• The third genetic factor had high loadings for withdrawal and continued use despite the problems criteria.

Evidence for multiple genetic factors underlying the DSM-IV criteria for alcohol dependence
KS Kendler, SH Aggen, CA Prescott, J Crabbe and MC Neale

Molecular Psychiatry (2012) 17, 1306–1315