Dr. Kenneth Blum: The Reward Gene, Dopamine, and the Future of Addiction Science

Dr. Mark Gold sits down with pioneering neuroscientist and addiction researcher Dr. Kenneth Blum to discuss the discovery of the dopamine D2 receptor gene's connection to alcoholism, the origins of Reward Deficiency Syndrome, and the role dopamine plays in addiction, motivation, and behavior.Dr. Blum reflects on the groundbreaking 1990 study that helped launch psychiatric genetics, explains how genetic and environmental factors shape addiction risk, and shares his vision for the future of personalized addiction treatment, dopamine regulation, and gene-editing technologies.The conversation also offers a personal look at Dr. Blum's remarkable journey—from professional dancer and aspiring performer to one of the most influential figures in addiction science.