During differentiation, DNA undergoes epigenetic remodeling to specify cell fate and regulate key developmental processes. This type of remodeling can become the first step on a path towards normal somatic differentiation or development of abnormality. Two important and well-studied examples of this are Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD) and Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS). AUD is the third leading cause of death in the U.S., contributing to about 1 in 10 deaths a year. The estimated cost of treatment and the loss of productivity due to AUD are estimated to be $223.5 billion annually (Stahre et al. 2014; Hannigan, Berman 2000; Bouchery et al. 2011). Similarly, fetal alcohol syndrome is one of the leading causes of preventable birth defects and developmental disabilities and is estimated to cost an individual with FAS up to $2 million over his or her lifetime, with the cost to the entire United States believed to be $4 billion annually (American Academy of Pediatrics 2000; Lupton et al. 2004). Many biological effects of AUD and FAS are found in the central nervous system (CNS). For example, ethanol has
