Myths vs facts: ADH1B and Fruchtbarkeit

Myths suggest that ADH1B variants directly cause infertility. In reality, ADH1B encodes alcohol dehydrogenase, which metabolizes ethanol. The common variant rs1229984 (ADH1B*2) leads to faster alcohol clearance and lower risk of alcohol dependence. Any link to fertility is indirect: heavy alcohol consumption can impair fertility in both sexes, but the gene variant itself is not a direct fertility marker. Evidence is mostly mechanistic and based on association studies, not clinical outcomes. A genetic test alone does not predict current fertility. Lifestyle, diet, and medical evaluation are far more relevant for those planning pregnancy.