Page 496 - AWSAR 2.0

472 || AWSAR Awarded Popular Science Stories - 2019
polymorphism. So now, I thought of checking the genes of alcoholics, especially in a specific region of India (Uttar Pradesh), so that I could examine whether these gene polymorphisms were making a person more
susceptible to alcoholism by inducing the craving for it.
To work it out, I collected blood samples of alcoholics and healthy individuals, followed by DNA isolation and PCR RFLP. One band of 310 bp was considered to be polymorphic in the case of the DRD2 gene, while one band of 96 bp was considered in the case of COMT gene, using specific restriction enzymes Taq1 and NlaIII, respectively.
After analysing the
results, an association was
established between the gene
polymorphism and susceptibility to alcoholism in a small sample size. But a larger-sample study was needed, which is in progress. This work was a promising step to solve some of
the problems of society.
This research can be beneficial in
creating awareness in the society. The polymorphism, if detected, can be overcome using several approaches, including various strategies of gene therapy where an unhealthy polymorphic gene can be replaced with a healthy one. For example, a cDNA copy of a specific gene can be made and targeted using vectors such as herpes simplex virus. Certain awareness camps can be organized, and necessary information can be provided, where polymorphic individuals are centralized not to drink even for once as it can increase
the craving for alcohol in them. Through these approaches, intentional and unintentional injuries, family problems, health problems and financial problems can be overcome, and we can create a healthy India
by creating a healthy society.
‘What can be the reason behind this aggression and violence? In fact, your both mischievous brothers (pCOMT and pDRD2) are very happy in the brain
of an alcoholic.’. DRD2 gene continued the conversation and told that, in some individuals, their siblings were present and, unfortunately, they both were unhealthy.