Gene-Environment Interplay and Substance Use: A Review of Recent Findings

Abstract

Substance use problems are chronic and common public health problems. We review recent studies that implicate genetic and environmental factors in their etiology. Although findings are mixed with respect to specific genotypes, some patterns are evident. For example, exposure to peers or parents who engage in high rates of substance use tends to exacerbate genetic diatheses or eliminate the protective effects of certain genotypes. We discuss reasons for mixed findings and highlight the need for translational research to advance understanding of gene function as well as new methods for using genome-wide data in biologically relevant pathways.