Alcohol‐Induced Modulation of the Insulin‐Like Growth Factor System in Early Chick Embryo Cranial Tissue

Abstract

Background: Fetal alcohol exposure has been shown to reduce fetal/embryonic growth. The insulin‐like growth factor (IGF) system plays a major role in normal growth and development of the embryo. The purpose of this study was to gain a better understanding of the effects of alcohol (ethanol, EtOH) exposure on the insulin‐like growth factors, their binding proteins, and receptors during embryonic development.Methods: After the administration of either alcohol or chick Ringer's solution to individual eggs at the start of incubation, type‐1 IGF receptors, IGF‐binding proteins (IGFBPs) as well as IGF‐1 and IGF‐2 levels were measured in chick embryo craniums on days 5, 6, 7, and 8 of incubation.Results: Levels of the IGF‐1 receptor protein were not significantly different between treatment groups on any day studied. In EtOH‐treated embryos, the 30 kDa IGFBP levels were significantly higher than vehicle levels on days 5 and 6. On day 6, IGF‐1 levels were significantly lower in the alcohol‐treated embryos compared with levels in vehicle‐treated embryos of the same age. By day 8 of incubation, IGF‐1 levels were significantly higher and the 30 kDa IGFBP levels were significantly lower in the alcohol‐treated group compared with vehicles. These results indicate an initial EtOH‐associated reduction in the amount of IGF‐1 available to bind to its receptor (bioavailability), followed by increased IGF‐1 bioavailability by day 8.Conclusions: The elevated IGFBP levels and reduced IGF‐1 levels on days 5 and 6 of incubation are congruent with an overall reduction in the bioavailability of IGF‐1 during this period and correlate with the decreased embryo weight observed in the alcohol‐treated embryos. An increased bioavailability of IGF‐1 observed by day 8 may represent a rebound effect and is associated with increases in ornithine decarboxylase activity, a marker of increased growth.