Different effects on zinc redistribution if ethanol is consumed before or immediately after birth

The effect of ethanol consumption, either during pregnancy and/or lactation, on the altered metabolism of zinc (Zn) is not well-defined. Therefore, this study was performed to analyse the effect of chronic ethanol exposure on Zn redistribution in dams and offspring during either gestation and/or lactation.

We have used three groups of Wistar rat dams: control (CD), ethanol (ED), and pair-fed dams (PD). Some of the newborns were cross-fostered to dams at birth and we formed five experimental groups of offspring: control (CO); those exposed to ethanol during gestation only (GO); those exposed to ethanol during lactation only (LO); those exposed to ethanol during both periods (EO); and pair-fed groups (PO). Zn levels were measured by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry.

Zinc distribution is altered in ED with respect to CD, presenting significantly higher Zn values in the brain and spleen, and lower levels in the liver. However, total organs Zn levels are similar between dams. Ethanol-treated offspring (GO, LO, EO) consumed significantly less Zn than the CO. However, LO and EO showed significantly higher Zn serum levels. Zn distribution was altered in ethanol-treated offspring. GO and LO showed lower Zn levels in liver than CO; GO presents the lowest Zn liver levels. These levels were significantly lower than EO and PO. Ethanol-treated pups present significantly higher spleen and testes values than CO and PO. Total organ Zn levels were significantly lower in GO.

Maternal adaptation resulted in organ Zn retention in order to meet the demands of pup's growth in the face of a lower diet intake. However, there was a redistribution of Zn in organ contents. Therefore, the ethanol route administration (via placenta and/or milk) affects Zn redistribution in pups in a different way.