This study investigated underlying molecular mechanisms associated with FASD and adverse health outcomes. The neurotransmitter dopamine which can be affected by alcohol was tested through swabs of eight weeks old babies. No strong evidence was found between alcohol consumption and the dopamine receptor in infants (DRD4 promoter methylation) at 8 weeks, though an association between increased methylation and women who breastfeed suggest the possible effects of alcohol exposure via breast milk.
Authors: Peter D. Fransquet, Delyse Hutchinson, Craig A. Olsson, Judy Wilson, Steve Allsop, Jake Najman, Elizabeth Elliott, Richard P. Mattick, Richard Saffery, Joanne Ryan
Date: September 2016