It’s been quite a month for Jewish genetics: First, scientists have found chromosomal proof that we’re smarter, which your mother already knew. Then European Jewish women may be denied access to health care because of their genetic predeliction for breast cancer.
And today we came across a study that suggests that our genes are responsible for how we handle our strong drink. It seems Jews have a higher prevalence of the gene ADH2*2,
a variation of ADH2, which produces a more active form of alcohol dehydrogenase, the enzyme that catalyzes the first step in alcohol metabolism. However, explains lead author Deborah Hasin, Ph.D., from Columbia University and the New York State Psychiatric Institute, “the exact reason why ADH2*2 tends to discourage heavier drinking isn’t known.”
We’ve always heard that “our people” don’t develop alcoholism, but maybe that’s because those with alcohol issues are better at keeping secrets. And of course, getting drunk is pretty much built into Judaism.
But perhaps our little mutated ADH2 is responsible for our inablity to smell Southern Comfort without projectile vomiting.