Genetic studies of substance use in Add health: Progress and pitfalls

Citation

Hewitt, John; K; Haberstick, Brett; C; Lessem, Jeffrey; M; Hopfer, Christian; J; Smolen, Andrew; & Ehringer, Marissa, et al. (2008). Genetic studies of substance use in Add health: Progress and pitfalls. 2008 Add Health Users Conference. Bethesda, MD: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carolina Population Center.

Abstract

This paper will present an overview of our biometrical and molecular genetic studies of smoking, alcohol, and marijuana in the first three waves of Add Health. First, we will illustrate the utility of the genetic pairs sample for understanding the genetic and environmental contributions to developing substance use and dependence. Importantly, this dataset allows us to identify components of the addiction process that are most influenced by genetic factors. Second, we will illustrate the use of candidate gene association studies in advancing our understanding of the role that specific genes might play in the development of these behaviors. Third, we will examine some aspects of gene by environment interaction we have studied using the dataset. Finally, we will discuss some important methodological pitfalls and caveats in using the Add Health dataset for genetic association studies and studies of gene by environment interaction.

URL

https://addhealth.cpc.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/docs/news/users-conference/2008%20Add%20Health%20Users%20Conference%20Abstracts.pdf

Reference Type

Conference proceeding

Book Title

2008 Add Health Users Conference

Author(s)

Hewitt, John
K
Haberstick, Brett
C
Lessem, Jeffrey
M
Hopfer, Christian
J
Smolen, Andrew
Ehringer, Marissa
A
Timberlake, David
McQueen, Matthew
Young, Susan
E
Boardman, Jason
D

Year Published

2008

Publisher

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carolina Population Center

City of Publication

Bethesda, MD

Reference ID

6322