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Throughout this course you will be learning how our genes shape what we look like, how they influence behaviors and how mutations can cause diseases. But is this all we are? Lets consider a complex issue to get things rolling: smoking. We all have nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in our brains. These receptors, located on our neurons (cells in the nervous system) bind the naturally-released neurotransmitter, acetylcholine. They also bind, as the name implies, the drug nicotine. Variants of a gene called CYP2A6 are associated with the speed at which a person metabolizes nicotine. A fast-metabolizer smokes more. Can we predict which individuals might respond to specific smoking cessation medications using this information? How can we test this? Is it only our genes that mandate the addiction? Can we just blame our genes? Is it ethical to offer only some individuals medication? For this discussion, you will read some articles and begin to analyze the data supporting evidence for the gene and behavior. Try not to use personal experience, but instead approach this subject as an objective scientist gathering and critiquing the data.

Since we cannot always use human subjects, for ethical reasons, to study genes and behavior, animal models often give us a close look into cellular and molecular mechanisms. Think about all the similarities between humans and other organisms, not just the differences. For example, fruit flies have brains, eyes and muscles. They walk, mate, eat, and sleep. Both organisms are made of cells, organs and organ systems. Certainly there are similar genes and proteins that drive their development and behaviors. Nevertheless, we are not exactly the same. Keep this in mind as you participate in discussions and as you proceed throughout the course.

Read the following articles:

Tyndale RF & Sellers EM (2001). Variable CYP2A6-mediated nicotine metabolism alters smoking behavior and risk (Links to an external site.). Drug Metab Dispos.
Quaak, et al. (2009). Genetic variation as a predictor of smoking cessation success (Links to an external site.). A promising preventive and intervention tool for chronic respiratory diseases? Eur Respir J 2009; 33: 468480.

References
http://dmd.aspetjournals.org/content/29/4/548

https://erj.ersjournals.com/content/33/3/468

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