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 and cumulus/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.