Antioxidants and fetal protection against ethanol teratogenicity: I. Review of the experimental data and implications to humans

Ethanol is the most common human teratogen, and heavy drinking during pregnancy can result in serious adverse outcomes to the fetus. The cellular mechanisms by which ethanol induces damage in utero are not well understood, while induction of oxidative stress is believed to be one putative mechanism. Our objective is to review the data of antioxidant effects in experimental models of fetal alcohol syndrome. Prior to the description of the available experimental data, we will briefly review the mechanisms leading to ethanol-induced oxidative stress. Ethanol-induced oxidative damage to the fetus could be attenuated by a variety of antioxidants as was documented in whole animal and tissue culture studies. Experiments, retrieved from the literature search, are described and criticized. Although experimental data are still limited, the application of a treatment strategy that includes antioxidants is justified since antioxidant treatment in human pregnancy for pre-eclampsia was demonstrated to be safe and effective. The available experimental evidence and the safety of vitamins C and E in pregnancy suggest that experimental use of antioxidants in alcohol-consuming mothers should be seriously considered to reduce fetal alcohol damage.