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Pharmacopsychiatry 2009; 42: S102-S109
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1214396
Original Paper

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Homocysteine, Alcoholism and its Molecular Networks

S. Bleich 1 , T. Hillemacher 1
  • 1Department of Psychiatry, Socialpsychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical School Hannover, Germany
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Publication History

Publication Date:
11 May 2009 (online)

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Abstract

The emerging research on biomarkers in alcohol dependence has lead to a deeper understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms in alcoholism. The molecular networks and the pathophysiological circuits are complex and not completely unrevealed up to now. One of the most interesting biomarkers described to play an important role in alcohol dependence is the amino-acid homocysteine, which has particularly been linked with brain atrophy and withdrawal seizures. However, the molecular networks of homocysteine are complex and include an important impact on epigenetic regulation via homocysteine's action as a methyl-group donator in human metabolism. So, alterations in human homocysteine levels can influence DNA-methylation of specific gene areas which may change expression and synthesis of proteins possibly important for the genesis and maintenance of alcohol dependence.

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Correspondence

S. BleichMD 

Department of Psychiatry

Socialpsychiatry and Psychotherapy

Medical School Hannover

Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1

30625 Hannover

Germany

Phone: +49/511/532 65 71

Fax: +49/511/532 24 15

Email: bleich.stefan@mh-hannover.de