Scientists at the University of California, San Diego, and other institutions conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) on coffee intake using data from US-based 23andMe participants and the UK Biobank. The study aimed to uncover genetic correlations between coffee consumption and various health and lifestyle traits. Researchers identified specific gene regions associated with coffee intake, confirming that genetic variants inherited from parents influence how much coffee an individual consumes. The study also explored whether coffee consumption is linked to positive or negative health outcomes. While consistent genetic associations were found between coffee and harmful health outcomes like obesity and substance use, results on psychiatric conditions were inconsistent between the two datasets. Differences in survey methodologies, cultural preferences, and definitions of coffee serving sizes between the US and UK contributed to these discrepancies. The research highlights the complexity of the relationship between genotype, phenotype, and environmental factors in coffee consumption.
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