Early Post-Natal Neuroactive Steroid Manipulation Modulates Ondansetron Effects on Initial Periods of Alcohol Consumption in Rats

The study investigated the effects of early post-natal neuroactive steroid (NS) manipulation on alcohol consumption and novelty-seeking behavior in adult male Wistar rats. The researchers administered allopregnanolone (AlloP), finasteride, or a vehicle to newborn rats and later assessed their alcohol intake and response to the 5HT3 antagonist, ondansetron. Results showed that early post-natal finasteride administration increased novelty-seeking behavior but generally reduced overall exploration levels. Additionally, finasteride-treated rats exhibited increased alcohol consumption during the initial periods of intake, suggesting that early NS manipulation could alter 5HT3 receptor function and influence alcohol-related behaviors.