Kindheitstraumata und genetische Veranlagung führen zu Alkoholismus in verschiedenen Lebensphasen. Die Ergebnisse deuten darauf hin, dass schwere frühe Traumata den Ausbruch der Krankheit beschleunigen, wohingegen bestimmte genetische Faktoren enger mit Alkoholismus verbunden sind, der sich später im Erwachsenenalter entwickelt.

>New research suggests that the path to alcohol dependence may differ depending on when the condition begins. A [study](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2025.112987) published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence identifies distinct roles for genetic variations and childhood experiences in the development of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). The findings indicate that severe early-life trauma accelerates the onset of the disease, whereas specific genetic factors are more closely linked to alcoholism that develops later in adulthood. This separation of causes provides a more nuanced view of a condition that affects millions of people globally.

>Alcohol Use Disorder is a chronic medical condition characterized by an inability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse consequences. Researchers understand that the risk of developing this condition stems from a combination of biological and environmental factors. Genetic predisposition accounts for approximately half of the risk. The remaining risk comes from life experiences, particularly those occurring during formative years. However, the specific ways these factors interact have remained a subject of debate.

>One specific gene of interest produces a protein called Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, or BDNF. This protein acts much like a fertilizer for the brain. It supports the survival of existing neurons and encourages the growth of new connections and synapses. This process is essential for neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections.

>Variations in the BDNF gene can alter how the brain adapts to stress and foreign substances. Because alcohol consumption changes the brain’s structure, the gene that regulates brain plasticity is a prime suspect in the search for biological causes of addiction.