23andMe

By Bethann Hromatka

The human brain is hardwired to receive chemical signals from our environment. It primarily does this through receptors—proteins on the surfaces of cells that catch specific molecules when they pass by. An interesting class of receptors is the mu-opioid receptors, so named because they influence responses to opiates (for instance morphine). These receptors are also involved in processing reward and dealing with stress.

A few years ago, researchers identified a SNP (rs1799971 in the opioid receptor gene OPRM1) associated with alcohol addiction. This SNP also appears to be involved in processing responses to physical and emotional pain. In addition, studies have linked rs1799971 to heroin addiction and responses to Naltrexone, a medication used to treat alcohol dependence and heroin addiction.

(23andMe customers can view their genotype at rs1799971 by using the Browse Raw Data feature or view their reports for Heroin Addiction and Naltrexone Treatment Response in their accounts.)

A study published this month suggests that rs1799971 also influences learning through positive reinforcement. The researchers behind this study tested if individuals with different versions of rs1799971 were more or less likely to continue choosing the right answer in a video game if they received reinforcement (in the form of a small cash prize) for correct answers.

The authors found that positive reinforcement prompted individuals with the AA genotype at rs1799971 to continue to choose the right answer over time. That is, positive reinforcement motivated these individuals to learn. In contrast, individuals with at least one copy of the G version at rs1799971 (AG or GG) were less motivated by positive feedback—these participants did not continue to choose the right answer over time.

In general, giving a child ice cream for good performance on a spelling bee will prompt him/her to continue to learn, and this study suggests that such responses are influenced by genetics. This report also suggests that the same version of rs1799971 is simultaneously involved in reinforcement learning, which many consider to be a beneficial behavior, and alcohol addiction, an unhealthy behavior. Studies like this one may eventually help elucidate the pathways that govern both normal human conduct and complex disorders.

SNPwatch gives you the latest news about research linking various traits and conditions to individual genetic variations. These studies are exciting because they offer a glimpse into how genetics may affect our bodies and health; but in most cases, more work is needed before this research can provide information of value to individuals. For that reason it is important to remember that like all information we provide, the studies we describe in SNPwatch are for research and educational purposes only. SNPwatch is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice; you should always seek the advice of your physician or other appropriate healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding diagnosis, cure, treatment or prevention of any disease or other medical condition.

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