Detection of genes that help stop smoking

Scientists have for the first time identified the link between genes and the ability to successfully quit smoking.

Through the discovery of the genome of cigarette smokers, American scientists hope that one day they will have a new tool to create an effective smoking cessation therapy for different subjects.

Researchers from Duke University and the US National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) studied the entire genetic structure, the genome, of smokers. Thereby, they found that the variation of 221 genes was able to help distinguish between successful smokers and those who could not yet quit smoking.

Scientists hope to find effective therapies soon based on discoveries of the drug addict's genome (Photo: student.vwc.edu)

The team screened and considered 520,000 separate genes taken from blood samples from smokers and non-smokers. When comparing the genes of smokers with the genes of successful smokers, the experts found many positive results in 221 gene variants found only in people who had given up smoking.

According to Mr. Uhl, the team knew the function of 187 of the 221 genes mentioned above, and is continuing to study the remaining 34 genes.

"We have also identified that at least 62 genes that play a role in dependence on other drugs also have a role in nicotine dependence," he said. These findings reinforce the assumption that nicotine addiction also comes from genetic factors such as addiction to other substances'.

Some recognized genes also help experts explain why many people are more likely to be addicted to tobacco and why some people can successfully detoxify.

Mr. Rose explained: 'For example, one of these genes controls the production of cadherin 13, adhesion molecules that help create connections between individual nerve cells. Addicts with inadequate neuronal connections find it harder to quit smoking and undergo a more strenuous detoxification process. These findings help experts have more facilities to choose detox therapy. '

The research team is continuing to study the correlation between these genes and the reactions of drug addicts to different detoxification therapies.

Dr. Nora D. Volkow, NIDA Director, said: 'This study marks the first time we are able to identify genes involved in the ability to quit smoking. It also marks an understanding of the genetic impact of successful detoxification. That knowledge will help professionals choose the most appropriate treatment for the detox, thereby improving the success rate of smoking '.

The results of this study have just been published in BMC Genetics, April 2, 2007, and funded by the US National Institutes of Health and Philip Morris USA Inc.

Minh Quang