Prenatal alcohol exposure results in a range of neurobehavioral deficits in humans, such as impaired learning and memory, enhanced impulsivity, and impaired social behavior. We assess the impact of factors such as timing and/or dose of alcohol on these behaviors in rats. Current projects are focused on social behavior and impulsivity in adolescence.

We use histology, immunohistochemistry, and microscopy to examine the brains of rats developmentally exposed to alcohol. For example, oxytocin is a neuropeptide known for its role in social behavior. The picture above shows oxytocin-producing neurons in an area of the brain called the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN).