A gene that makes people more prone to drink alcohol has been discovered by scientists.
Experts at King's College London and Imperial College London have found variations of a brain gene that affects our desire for booze, with 60 per cent of Brits more likely to crave it.
Meanwhile around 40 per cent of Brits have a version of the gene that reduces their desire to drink.
The gene, which has been tested in mice, is believed to interact with a liver hormone produced when we drink.
Up until recently few genes had been linked to alcohol abuse, although it can be inherited. It is hoped breakthrough can be used to help problem drinkers.
Imperial's Professor Paul Elliott told The Sun: "The results point to a previously unrecognised genetic determinant of alcohol drinking among the general population."
"Our findings may lead to new treatments for people whose health is being harmed by drinking."
A spokesman for Alcohol Concern said: "I'm sure these researchers would be the first to say problem drinking is never just about genetics."
