Scientists identify alcohol tolerance geneBy Richard Alleyne, Science Correspondent
08 Dec 2008
An alcohol tolerance gene has been identified by scientists which could eventually lead to a test to see how well people can hold their drink.
Researchers also believe that the breakthrough could help identify people who are more susceptible to alcohol abuse later in life.
The team looked at how strongly people were affected by drinking in terms of body sway, co-ordination problems and feeling "high", and pinpointed the stretch of DNA that appeared to determine it.
According to the findings people who show little response to alcohol have a higher likelihood of alcohol dependence and abuse and this is influenced by genetics.
Drinkers who show a low level of response to alcohol can consume more before feeling the effects of intoxication and are more likely to succumb to alcoholism.
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