Comparative genetics of alcoholism in the Kenyan populations
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Date
2004
Authors
Doudoladova, K. E.
Ndiritu, D
Ochieng, David
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Academic Journals
Abstract
Hepatic alcohol dehydrogenase and aldehyde dehydrogenase are major enzymes in the metabolism of
exogenous ethanol. These enzymes are polymorphic and are involved in alcohol drinking and risk of
alcoholism in some world populations. Three hundred and seventy one samples of hair root lyzates
from five Kenyan communities were screened for ADH 2, ADH 3 and ALDH 2 polymorphisms via
isoelectric focusing. Additional information on alcohol drinking behaviour, alcohol intake, frequency of
alcohol drinking, preference of alcoholic drinks, and alcohol dependence was collected via interview
and questionnaire. SAS JPIN statistical program was used to analyze obtained data using chi-square,
Anova and t-tests. The results showed that ADH 2*2, ADH 3*1 and ALDH 2*2 alleles do not have
protective properties against risk of alcoholism in the selected Kenyan populations. Other factors than
ADH and ALDH polymorphisms interfered in the protective mechanism of the latter alleles against
excessive alcohol drinking.
Description
Keywords
Alcohol, ADH, ALDH, polymorphism, alcohol drinking, alcoholism.
Citation
African Journal of Biotechnology Vol. 3 (2), pp. 152-155, February 2004