"Our findings suggest that HDAC inhibitors may have potential as therapeutic agents in treating alcoholism," Dr. Pandey said.
His team also observed that levels of a protein, called CREB binding protein, which has HAT enzymatic activity, were increased by acute alcohol, but were decreased during ethanol withdrawal.
Based on their observations, the researchers came to the conclusion that the enzymes that are involved in remodelling of chromatin play an important role in the anxiety that accompanies alcohol withdrawal as well as in the anti-anxiety effects of acute alcohol use.
"We need new strategies to treat alcoholism that are directed toward the prevention of withdrawal symptoms. Anxiety associated with withdrawal from alcohol abuse is a key factor in the maintenance of alcohol addiction," Dr. Pandey said.
Source-ANI
RAS/L