November 4, 2005
Anna Klintsova, PhD (Host Galloway PT)
"Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Possible Interventions"
Abstract:
Among the most devastating consequences resulting from prenatal alcohol
exposure are those caused by alterations in the central nervous system.
These CNS changes underlie the cognitive and behavioral deficits
reported in fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS).
Studies of animal models of binge-like drinking during the third
trimester of human pregnancy demonstrated impairment of motor behavior
and permanent Purkinje and granule cell reduction in the cerebellum.
Learning complex motor tasks, however, is known to improve motor skills
and increase synaptic plasticity in the cerebral and cerebellar cortex
of normal animals. In my talk I will summarize our attempts to further
understand the mechanism of alcohol-induced brain damage (effect on
adult brain neurogenesis, synaptogenesis) and to ameliorate this damage
using "acrobat paradigm" and exercise. I will address possible
advantages of the earlier intervention (immediately after weaning in
this animal model vs. in adult age). Work is supported by AA09838.