University of Kentucky
Three Studies Examining the Effects of Prenatal or Adolescent Exposure to Alcohol and/or Nicotine in Rats: The Effects of “3rd trimester” Alcohol and Nicotine Exposure on Activity Levels in Rats
Institution
University of Kentucky
Faculty Advisor/ Mentor
Susan Barron
Abstract
Kentucky ranks among the top states in pregnant smokers. There is also a strong relationship among pregnant drinkers and heavy smoking. Surprisingly, we currently know very little about the possible interactive effects of nicotine and alcohol on the developing offspring. One of the most frequently reported findings following prenatal alcohol or nicotine exposure is changes in activity levels. Using a rodent model, this study examined the effects of alcohol and nicotine exposure on offspring activity (see Project 1 above for description of treatment groups). Activity was recorded for 20 min daily in juvenile rats (19 –21 days of age). Animals were the most active during the first 10 minutes on each test day although there were alterations in this normal activity pattern depending on treatment group and gender. Female offspring exposed to nicotine and ethanol (in combination) displayed a reduction in activity that would not have been predicted based on exposure to either drug alone.
Three Studies Examining the Effects of Prenatal or Adolescent Exposure to Alcohol and/or Nicotine in Rats: The Effects of “3rd trimester” Alcohol and Nicotine Exposure on Activity Levels in Rats
Kentucky ranks among the top states in pregnant smokers. There is also a strong relationship among pregnant drinkers and heavy smoking. Surprisingly, we currently know very little about the possible interactive effects of nicotine and alcohol on the developing offspring. One of the most frequently reported findings following prenatal alcohol or nicotine exposure is changes in activity levels. Using a rodent model, this study examined the effects of alcohol and nicotine exposure on offspring activity (see Project 1 above for description of treatment groups). Activity was recorded for 20 min daily in juvenile rats (19 –21 days of age). Animals were the most active during the first 10 minutes on each test day although there were alterations in this normal activity pattern depending on treatment group and gender. Female offspring exposed to nicotine and ethanol (in combination) displayed a reduction in activity that would not have been predicted based on exposure to either drug alone.