Physiological role of aldehyde dehydrogenase isozymes.

Our studies confirm that impaired acetaldehyde metabolism via a deficiency in aldehyde dehydrogenase isozyme composition plays an important role in the sensitivity to alcohol and the pathophysiology of alcoholism. Individuals with decreased activity of ALDH having less affinity to acetaldehyde in their liver, may be at a higher risk of acetaldehyde-related organ damage. In the case of Oriental subjects, the lack of ALDH I activity may also result in alcohol aversion. A protection of these individuals against alcoholism is suggested.