Rat models of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders for studying the critical role of cerebellar damage: A scoping review

Background

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) refers to the neurodevelopmental condition of lifelong cognitive, emotional, and behavioral challenges that can occur in individuals exposed to alcohol before birth. FASD is a preventable, chronic condition with no direct diagnosis and no treatment, and is considered the leading cause of developmental cognitive impairment in Western countries. The best-known effects of prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) are those that affect the brain. Among these structures, the cerebellum, a key coordinative tissue, is particularly sensitive to PAE, leading to motor and cognitive disorders. Since 1994, the use of different rat models of FASD has greatly influenced the understanding of the effects of perinatal alcohol exposure on cerebellum development.

Methods

We conducted a scoping review of research from the past 30 years to answer an important question for the scientific community: “Which rat model of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) offers the most relevant insights for selecting an appropriate experimental design, specifically for investigating alcohol-induced effects on the cerebellum?”

Results

Considering the unique developmental characteristics of the cerebellum, five developmental time windows have been identified in rats for studying its state after ethanol exposure. In each window, the route and dose of ethanol administration result in different blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages. This information is presented in three tables, which also indicate the type of study conducted: morphological, biochemical, electrophysiological, or behavioral.

Conclusions

The third-trimester equivalent period is the most susceptible to alcohol-induced cerebellar damage and is thus the most widely studied by researchers. More research is needed on the effects of alcohol during lactation.