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Determine the causes of alcohol dependence will help round worms
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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It is known that not all people are inclined to develop dependence on alcohol, even if they drink regularly. At the University of the Commonwealth of Virginia, a group of scientists decided to conduct a study in which to determine the causes that lead to alcohol dependence.
For their experiments experts selected roundworms, according to experts, it is this type of worm that will help determine the causes of dependence on alcohol in humans, because the genetic structure of humans and this kind of worms is very similar.
The research team believed that some experiments will help to find out at what point a person begins to develop alcohol dependence and what contributes to it.
The researchers studied the protein complex SWI / SNF, which plays an important role in the development of dependence on alcohol in humans. As a result, it was found that genetic changes in this complex are in direct relationship with the formation of dependence on alcohol. Thus scientists have established, that the given mechanism works both at worms, and at people.
To date, the work of specialists is aimed at a detailed study of the structure of roundworms, as well as on finding out which genes are mutated and lead to alcohol dependence. According to the research team, if they manage to find a mutational gene, this will help in developing an effective drug that helps cope with alcohol dependence.
Another research group from Russia recently started testing a new drug, which, according to scientists, will help to effectively overcome the painful cravings for alcohol. The new drug was called Odepelran, and experts are sure of its high efficiency. Now the research institute of mental health in Tomsk is conducting clinical trials of a new drug, and according to preliminary data, Odepelan helps to reduce craving for alcohol by 30%.
The principle of the new is based on the blocking of opioid receptors. These receptors stimulate a sense of pleasure after drinking alcohol. People with alcohol addiction after taking the medicine gradually cease to experience pleasure after drinking, thereby reducing the craving for alcohol. Odepelan allows you to control the amount of alcohol by reducing the craving for them.
At Tomsk Research Institute, at this stage, the effectiveness of the new drug is tested, which is tested in the treatment of the main stages of alcohol dependence on the example of a particular patient, including the stage of alcohol abuse and dependence development.
According to the plans of the research group, if the tests pass well, Olepelran may appear on the market in 2017. Now, experts are recruiting volunteers for the experiment. All participants will be able to undergo free outpatient treatment from alcohol addiction, scientists guarantee anonymity and complete confidentiality.
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