Racial differences in circadian variation of ethanol metabolism

Alcohol, alcoholism, and biological rhythms

Chronobiological rhythms contribute to our understanding of the effect of alcohol and of several features of alcoholism. The observation of infradian periodicities suggests preventive seasonal strategies aimed at reducing the consumption of alcohol and its consequences. Circadian variations in blood alcohol levels and behavioral impairment indicate a complex temporal rhythmicity with both physiological and psychosocial determinants. Circadian differences are noted among possible mediators of susceptibility towards alcoholism. Ultradian patterns may be of prognostic value in assessing risks such as that of relapse during withdrawal from alcohol. Recommendations for future animal and human investigations are suggested.

Chronobiological susceptibility to alcoholism: a hypothesis

The search for carriers of a specific biologic risk for alcoholism is ongoing. In addition to seeking "the needle in the haystack," the need to monitor a broader phenotypic indicator such as chronobiological interaction is hypothesized. Certain potential mediators of genetic predisposition to alcoholism are subject to periodic rhythmicity in both animal and human investigations. These mediators include prolactin, cortisol, and MOPEG levels along with possible sleep characteristics. Suggestions for future animal and human investigations are outlined using adequate sampling criteria, appropriate rating and recording instruments, and controls predisposed to other psychiatric diagnoses.