The Effects of Prenatal Substance Exposure on Affect-Related Behaviors

Authors: Sophia Calabrese, Shannon McElderry, Marvin Diaz

Field of Study: Health and Wellness

Program Affiliation: Alcohol & Development Lab

Faculty Mentors: Marvin Diaz

Abstract: Current research suggests polysubstance use during pregnancy is common, although limited information exists on prenatal polysubstance exposure, such as alcohol and methadone (PAE + PME). Prenatal exposure to alcohol (PAE) and methadone (PME) have been thoroughly studied and associated with negative affective behaviors (anxiety, depression, pain sensitivity). This study aims to close the gap in research regarding prenatal polysubstance use utilizing three behavioral tests (fear conditioning, forced swim stress, von frey) and a voluntary drinking procedure to determine the effects of PAE +/- PME. Sprague Dawley dams in PAE, PME, PAE + PME, or control groups were subcutaneously injected with methadone in sterile water twice a day (G3-20), or received two I.P. injections of ethanol in saline (G12). It was hypothesized that PAE and PME animals would exhibit increased anxiety and depressive-like behaviors and pain sensitivity, with PAE + PME animals exhibiting synergistic effects. Findings provide insight into prenatal exposure interactions.