Genomics and epigenomics of addiction

Maldonado, Rafael, 1961-; Calvé Pérez, Pablo, 1993-; García Blanco, Alejandra; Domingo Rodriguez, Laura, 1992-; Senabre, Eric; Martín García, Elena, 1975-

doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/ajmg.b.32843

Genomics and epigenomics of addiction

Citation

Maldonado R, Calvé P, García-Blanco A, Domingo-Rodriguez L, Senabre E, Martín-García E. Genomics and epigenomics of addiction. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet. 2021;186(3):128-39. DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.32843

Abstract

Recent progress in the genomics and epigenomics of addiction has contributed to improving our understanding of this complex mental disorder's etiology, filling the gap between genes, environment, and behavior. We review the behavioral genetic studies reporting gene and environment interactions that explain the polygenetic contribution to the resilience and vulnerability to develop addiction. We discuss the evidence of polymorphic candidate genes that confer susceptibility to develop addiction as well as the studies of specific epigenetic marks that contribute to vulnerability and resilience to addictive-like behavior. A particular emphasis has been devoted to the miRNA changes that are considered potential biomarkers. The increasing knowledge about the technology required to alter miRNA expression may provide promising novel therapeutic tools. Finally, we give future directions for the field's progress in disentangling the connection between genes, environment, and behavior.