Mutation might make caucasians more susceptible to cocaine abuse

By Staff Writer

A genetic variant that alters the brain’s response to specific chemical signals may lead to an increased susceptibility to severe cocaine abuse. The results of a new study indicated that caucasians are more likely to have this genetic mutation.

In the study, researchers examined the allele differences in the gene dopamine receptor D2. An allele is an alternate form of a gene. Through the examination of human brain autopsy tissues of people who had died of cocaine overdose, the researchers found that whites with at least one of two possible mutations were 3.4 times more likely to struggle with cocaine abuse than those without it.

The study results showed that among whites, more than 40 percent of autopsy brain samples taken from people who had abused cocaine carried one or both mutations, which alter the gene responsible for transmitting dopamine signals in the brain. Of African Americans, only one in eight had the genetic variant.

For researchers, the study’s findings indicated a strong connection in brain tissue between the genetic mutations and the presence of severe cocaine abuse.

Individuals who find themselves dependant on cocaine may want to seek substance abuse help through drug rehab.