Two related genes that help control signalling between brain cells may play an important role in cocaine addiction, says a study in the Aug. 5 issue of Neuron.

In research with mice, scientists found that deleting either of the two genes in the “Homer” family caused symptoms similar to those of cocaine withdrawal. The finding provides a new research target for trying to understand how both a genetic susceptibility to addiction and environmental factors cause addiction.

The study found the Homer1 and Homer2 genes appear to be specific for cocaine. When the researchers tested the effects of caffeine and heroin on mice that lacked the Homer genes, the rodents’ behavioral responses weren’t the same as they were with cocaine.

“While it can be anticipated that additional genetic models may be discovered that mimic or block behaviors associated with cocaine addiction, the striking concordant neurochemical phenotype between Homer2 deletion and withdrawal from chronic cocaine treatment indicates that Homer is a particularly good candidate to play a central role in cocaine addiction,” the study authors wrote.

Source:Published in Aug edition of Neuron reported in Health Day News, Aug. 4 2004

“I think Ray, my partner, is in real trouble with his drinking, and I’m not sure what to do to help. I could smell alcohol on his breath this morning. Then after his 1:30 appointment, I saw him sneaking a drink from a bottle he had in his desk drawer. “We’ve been friends and partners for years. I hate feeling like a snitch. His job performance has slipped and he lost that sharp edge we all used to envy yet admire in him.

“I don’t know what he’ll say or do if I tell him my concern directly. But I do know that we can‘t afford to let things continue as they are. Both Ray and our practice deserved better than that.” The need to intervene seems readily apparent in this scenario. Not taking an action is the worst thing you can do. But how do you begin? What can you do to improve this difficult situation rather than making it worse?

The first step is to have a private, one-on-one meeting with Ray, preferably not in the office. By meeting in private, eye to eve, you can tell your colleague your concerns and still express your support and understanding. Your friendship may make it easier for Ray to come clean with you about how serious his drinking problem has become.

You might say something like, “I thought I smelled booze on your breath when you came into the office this morning. ‘Would you like to talk about it?” Be as empathic, as understanding, as possible and avoid using an accusatory tone. You want him to be able to hear your concern, not your judgment. If you are fortunate, Ray will open up and say, “You’re right. I do have a problem.”

But don’t be shocked if Ray denies having any problem with alcohol–or with drinking. These addictions often go hand in hand. Denial is the first response of most people faced Don’t be surprised if your colleague acts shocked or becomes annoyed with you.. He hides a multitude of other feelings, from embarrassment and guilt, to powerlessness’.

In many situations like this, the person’s denial forces you into taking the nc:: .tcp. You may need to gather other colleagues, as well as Ray’s friends and family members for a well-planned meeting. These intervention meetings allow everyone in the group to calmly and systematically: share with Ray their concerns about his drinking or drug-taking behaviour, and how it is affecting each of you in ways he cannot see. For a successful intervention, it’s best to get professional advice. Contact your local drug treatment program or mental health center and ask for an intervention specialist.
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