Gene determines how much of a “reward” people get from booze

One in six U.S. adults binge-drinks four times a month, consuming an average of eight drinks per session, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — and binge drinking is practically a rite of passage on college campuses nationwide. But why do some people feel so compelled to throw back a few drinks while others have no interest at all?

Blame it on the genes.

According to a new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers have found a gene that plays a starring role in how alcohol stimulates the brain to release dopamine, triggering feelings of happiness and reward.

View the original article here: Scientists discver gene that may lead to boozing

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