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Animal Models of Prenatal Alcohol Exposure.
Hannah M O Reid1,2, Hanna Elford2,3, Mia A C Till1,2
1Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology
|January 1, 2026
Summary
Animal models are crucial for understanding prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) and its effects, like fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). This review compares various models, detailing their strengths and weaknesses for research.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Developmental Biology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) is a significant concern with lifelong consequences.
- Animal models have been instrumental in studying PAE since 1899.
- Understanding the teratogenic effects of alcohol requires robust experimental models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of animal models used for PAE research.
- To critically evaluate experimental considerations in PAE studies.
- To compare the translational relevance of different animal models for fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).
Main Methods:
- Review and synthesis of existing literature on animal models for PAE.
- Comparative analysis of vertebrate (rodents, guinea pigs, non-human primates) and invertebrate models.
- Examination of experimental parameters: blood alcohol concentration, exposure timing, and administration routes.
Main Results:
- Various species, from invertebrates to primates, have been used to model PAE.
- Rodent, guinea pig, and non-human primate models offer different strengths and limitations in replicating human FASD.
- PAE impacts behavioral outcomes across motor, executive, cognitive, and social domains throughout the lifespan.
Conclusions:
- Selecting the appropriate animal model and experimental design is critical for valid PAE research.
- Animal models are essential for elucidating the pathophysiology of FASD.
- Continued refinement of animal models will enhance our understanding of PAE's developmental and neurological impacts.
