The genetic variants that push us to gambling addiction

Gambling is a growing activity in our society, especially online games. And, although many people participate without it representing a problem for their health, many others end up developing an addiction to gambling, which can have significant economic, social and psychological effects. It is estimated that between 0.02% and 2% of adults will experience gambling addiction at some point in their lives. The causes that determine whether or not a person will develop addiction are complex and are not yet fully understood.

A study published in the academic journal Scientific Reports, led by the Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) and the Bellvitge University Hospital (HUB), in Hospitalet de Llobregat (Barcelona), both entities, has confirmed that the genes of the factors neurotrophies, small proteins that regulate neuronal activity, are associated with gambling addiction. Specifically, the study describes six changes in these genes that increase vulnerability to gambling addiction.

Dr. Susana Jiménez, project leader, IDIBELL group leader and coordinator of the Pathological Gambling Unit of the Bellvitge University Hospital, declares: “Gaming addiction is very complex, it affects very diverse groups of people, and very different psychological, social and biological factors. Now with this study we have one more tool, we know better the genetic factors that imply a greater vulnerability, which can help us both in the diagnosis and the treatment of patients”.

In fact, previous studies pointed to the possible role of the genes of neurotrophic factors in gambling addiction, but this new study reveals for the first time what are the specific variations that increase the risk.

Games in which money is wagered are a growing activity in the society of many countries. (Illustration: Amazings/NCYT)

Neurotrophic factors are not only involved in gambling addictions; Previous studies have also shown its involvement in other psychiatric disorders such as substance addictions.

This is not the first time that common ground has been found between substance addictions and behavioral addictions. First of all, these types of psychiatric disorders involve the same brain regions. And, also, they share the mechanisms of transmission of signals between neurons in the processes of impulsiveness, reward or decision making.

“Even today there is discussion about whether behavioral addictions should be classified as impulse control disorders, or as addictions themselves,” says Dr. Jiménez. “Addictions encompass alterations of very varied psychological processes, that is why we must continue investigating to know their origin well and be able to apply prevention measures.” (Source: IDIBELL)