CHRNA4 and ANKK1 Polymorphisms Influence Smoking-Induced Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Upregulation

Conclusion: This study provides evidence for genetic regulation of tobacco smoking-induced changes in β2*-nAChR availability and suggests that β2*-nAChR availability could be an endophenotype mediating influences of CHRNA4 variants on nicotine dependence. These results highlight individual differences in the neurochemistry of nicotine dependence and may suggest the need for individualized programs for smoking cessation. Implications: This study demonstrates genetic regulation of smoking-induced changes in β2*-nAChRs throughout the brain and highlights the need for personalized programs for smoking cessation.

http://ntr.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/18/9/1845?rss=1

Source: Nicotine and Tobacco Research - August 9, 2016 Category: Addiction Authors: Esterlis, I., Hillmer, A. T., Bois, F., Pittman, B., McGovern, E., OMalley, S. S., Picciotto, M. R., Yang, B.-z., Gelernter, J., Cosgrove, K. P. Tags: Original Investigation Source Type: research