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Relationships between addiction and the COMT rs4680 Gene Polymorphism

Hubungan antara kecanduan dan Polimorfisme Gen COMT rs4680
Vol. 10 No. 2 (2025): December:
DOI : https://doi.org/10.21070/acopen.10.2025.11718
Published : Jul 20, 2025

Wael Sattar Jaber (1), Fulla Abd Alsattar Alriyahee (2)

(1) University of Basrah, College of education for pure sciences, Iraq
(2) University of Basrah, College of Education for Pure Sciences, Iraq
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Abstract:

General Background: Addiction to drugs and alcohol is a complex neuropsychiatric disorder influenced by both environmental and genetic factors, particularly those affecting dopamine regulation. Specific Background: The catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) gene, particularly the rs4680 Val158Met polymorphism, plays a crucial role in dopamine metabolism and has been implicated in addiction susceptibility. Knowledge Gap: While several studies link COMT variants to substance use disorders, evidence from Middle Eastern populations, especially Iraq, remains limited. Aims: This study aimed to assess the association between the COMT rs4680 polymorphism and vulnerability to drug and alcohol addiction in an Iraqi male cohort. Results: Analysis of 90 samples revealed a significantly higher frequency of the A allele and AA genotype in addicts compared to controls. The AA genotype was associated with a 14.55-fold and 17.14-fold increased risk of drug and alcohol addiction, respectively, while the GA genotype showed intermediate risk. Novelty: This is among the first studies to examine this genetic association in an Iraqi context, highlighting the contribution of COMT polymorphism to addiction predisposition. Implications: The findings suggest potential for genetic screening and personalized intervention strategies targeting dopaminergic pathways in addiction prevention and treatment.
Highlight :




  • The A allele of the rs4680 polymorphism is significantly associated with increased addiction risk.




  • The AA genotype shows a strong correlation with both drug and alcohol addiction.




  • The GA genotype indicates moderate vulnerability to addictive behavior.




Keywords  : rs4680 Polymorphism, COMT Gene, Addiction, Drug Use, Alcohol Use


 

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