How are ADH1B and Langlebigkeit related?

The relationship between ADH1B and longevity is primarily mediated through alcohol metabolism. ADH1B encodes alcohol dehydrogenase, which converts ethanol to acetaldehyde. A common variant, rs1229984 (ADH1B*2), results in much higher enzyme activity, causing faster conversion to toxic acetaldehyde. This leads to stronger adverse reactions after alcohol intake (e.g., flushing, nausea), which tends to reduce alcohol consumption. Since excessive alcohol intake is a risk factor for many diseases (liver cirrhosis, certain cancers, cardiovascular disease), this variant may indirectly increase life expectancy. However, the evidence is complex: in some populations (e.g., East Asians) the association with lower alcohol intake and reduced cancer risk is well-documented, while in others (e.g., Europeans) the variant is rare and effects are weaker. Direct studies on overall longevity are scarce. The provided context does not contain specific data on ADH1B and longevity. Therefore, the predictive power is limited. A genetic test alone is insufficient to predict life expectancy; lifestyle, environment, and other genetic factors play a much larger role.