Aim: 

The influence of chronic ethanol consumption on selenium (Se) balance is not well-defined. The aim of this study was to elucidate whether chronic ethanol consumption by adult female rats during pregnancy and lactation had effects on Se intestinal absorption, excretion and serum concentration in their descents.

Methods: 

Male and female rats were randomized into two groups. Ethanol group (EG) treated with ethanol in tap water and basic diet during gestation and lactation, and control group (CG) fed tap water and basic diet. Each group of rats was mated. The study was performed in pups of 21 days. The jejunal selenium-methionine (Se-Met) absorption was determined by an in vivo perfusion technique. Serum was obtained by blood centrifugation. Faecal and urine samples were recollected in metabolic cages. Se levels were measured by an atomic absorption spectrophotometer (EAA).

Results: 

The EG pups had significantly lower body weights at the end of the lactation. Serum Se levels were higher in the ethanol-exposed offspring. However, no significant differences between both groups in the Se urine and faeces excretion were found. Se-Met transport was significantly increased at higher Se-concentrations (5, 10, 25 and 75 mM) in EG group; however, at low concentrations (1 and 2mM) not significant differences were found between both groups.

Conclusions: 

The ethanol consumption by dams during pregnancy and lactation affects significantly body weight, serum Se levels and Se-Met intestinal transport on their descents.

Acknowledgements: 

Grant PI060335 supported this investigation from the Fondo Investigaciones Sanitarias.