Chronic adolescent alcohol exposure induces long-term neurofunctional and metabolic dysregulation in adult rats

Adolescent chronic drinking has become increasingly prevalent worldwide, imposing significant physical and mental burdens in adulthood. However, the specific effects of different alcohol doses during adolescence on adult physiology remain incompletely understood. In this study, we established a 12-day chronic alcohol exposure model in adolescent rats using different alcohol doses. Behavioral tests, ¹³C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging were then used to examine behavior, neurotransmitter metabolism, and brain functional connectivity in adulthood. We found that long-term low-dose alcohol exposure impairs hepatic metabolic function. In contrast, high-dose alcohol exposure not only induces hepatic metabolic disorders but also alters brain functional connectivity in adulthood and leads to anxiety-like behaviors.