Introduction: Lesch's typology differentiates alcoholics into different treatment response subgroups. The effects of ethanol are mediated, to an important extent, via the GABA-ergic system.
Material and methods: We have evaluated the linkage disequilibrium patterns and haplotype frequencies of GABRG1 and GABRA2 genes in 133 alcoholics divided according to Lesch's typology and in 145 matched controls.
Results: Besides several relationships at a threshold of statistical significance, we found no significant differences in the haplotype distribution of these genes between alcoholics and controls.
Conclusions: Lesch's typology may not be related with the genotype of alcoholics - at least in terms of genes with an established role in the development of dependency.
Keywords: GABA; Lesch's typology; alcohol dependence; genetics.