Gene-expression analysis after alcohol exposure in the developing mouse

Exposure to alcohol in the embryonic mouse can lead to structural and neurophysiologic changes. The cause of these changes is poorly understood, but they are likely the result of numerous mechanisms. Here we investigate ethanol-induced alterations in gene expression in the fetal brain. Using complementary-DNA microarrays, we identified 25 genes that were down-regulated by prenatal ethanol exposure on days 7 and 9 of gestation. None were found to be up-regulated. Of those that were repressed, 6 (Timp4, Bmp15, Rnf25, Akt1, Tulp4, Dexras1) have been identified, and they are discussed here in the context of the developing fetus. The identified genes have been shown to be involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis, and they contribute to tissue growth and remodeling, as well as neuronal growth and survival. Microarray studies may be useful in the identification of a genetic marker for fetal alcohol syndrome, the discovery of novel pathways that may be involved in its origin, or both.