Transgenerational effects of binge drinking in a primate model: implications for human health

Objective: To determine if binge ethanol consumption before ovulation affects oocyte quality, gene expression, and subsequent embryo development. Design: Binge levels of ethanol were given twice weekly for 6 months, followed by a standard in vitro fertilization cycle and subsequent natural mating. Setting: National primate research center. Animal(s): Adult female rhesus monkeys. Intervention(s): Binge levels of ethanol, given twice weekly for 6 months before a standard in vitro fertilization cycle with or without embryo culture. With in vivo development, ethanol treatment continued until pregnancy was identified. Main Outcome-Measure(s): Oocyte ancicumulus/granulosa cell gene expression, embryo development to blastocyst, and pregnancy rate. Result(s): Embryo development in vitro was reduced; changes were found in oocyte and cumulus cell gene expression; and spontaneous abortion during very early gestation increased. Conclusion(s): This study provides evidence that binge drinking can affect the developmental potential of oocytes even after alcohol consumption has ceased. (C) 2015 by American Society for Reproductive Medicine.