What role does ADH1B play in Fruchtbarkeit?

ADH1B encodes alcohol dehydrogenase 1B, an enzyme that metabolizes ethanol to acetaldehyde. Variants such as ADH1B*2 (rs1229984) result in faster alcohol metabolism and higher acetaldehyde levels, which are associated with lower alcohol consumption. Regarding fertility, there is no strong direct evidence that ADH1B variants alone impact fertility. However, alcohol consumption is known to negatively affect fertility in both men and women. Carriers of the fast-metabolizing ADH1B variant tend to drink less, which may indirectly protect fertility. The evidence is mechanistic and based on association studies, not large RCTs. MyBody-X tests that include ADH1B are marketed for metabolism and alcohol response, not fertility. Thus, the role in fertility is indirect and speculative. It is crucial to distinguish between direct genetic effects and indirect behavioral influences.