Effects of Fetal Ethanol Exposure on Adolescent and Adult Rats
Author Information
Author(s): Eade Amber M, Sheehe Paul R, Molina Juan C, Spear Norman E, Youngentob Lisa M, Youngentob Steven L
Primary Institution: State University of New York Upstate Medical University
Hypothesis
Does adolescent re-exposure to ethanol odor enhance the behavioral response in rats previously exposed to ethanol in utero?
Conclusion
Fetal ethanol exposure influences adolescent re-exposure, enhancing ethanol odor responsivity during a key developmental transition for emergent abuse patterns.
Supporting Evidence
- Adolescent re-exposure to ethanol odor enhances the behavioral response in rats with prior fetal exposure.
- Behavioral effects were observed only in adult females with combined fetal and adolescent ethanol exposures.
- Prenatal ethanol exposure increased the frequency of following an intoxicated peer in adolescent rats.
Takeaway
Rats that were exposed to alcohol before birth and then again as teenagers reacted more strongly to the smell of alcohol, which might lead to drinking problems later.
Methodology
Pregnant rats were given either ethanol or control diets, and their offspring were exposed to ethanol odor during adolescence through social interactions.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in the selection of treatment groups and the social interaction paradigm.
Limitations
The study did not evaluate the persistence of neurophysiological effects in either sex beyond adolescence.
Participant Demographics
Long-Evans female rats were used in the study.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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