A Rutgers Health study published in Science Advances has found that individuals with a high genetic risk for alcohol use disorder (AUD) exhibit distinct microglial responses to alcohol, which may contribute to cognitive decline.
Researchers transformed participants’ blood cells into stem cells that developed into microglia—the immune cells of the brain—and exposed them to alcohol. Microglia from high-risk individuals showed significantly higher activity, particularly in eliminating synapses between neurons, a process linked to cognitive impairment and increased dementia risk.
The study suggests that excessive microglial activity in genetically predisposed individuals disrupts neuronal connections, potentially leading to memory problems and impaired impulse control after prolonged alcohol exposure. This mechanism may also contribute to long-term neurodegenerative processes associated with alcohol dependence.
These findings provide insight into why certain individuals are more vulnerable to AUD and open pathways for personalized treatment approaches. Future research will focus on brain organoids to further explore genetic and alcohol-related interactions, with potential therapeutic strategies including drugs to modulate microglial activity and targeted behavioral interventions.
