The DRN is a main origin of the serotonin system, so it is significant that all of the 21 differentially expressed genes in the serotonin pathway are decreased after the repeated binge drinking. This could reflect direct down-regulation of the serotonin system, or the retarded development of the serotonin system. Rodents prenatally exposed to alcohol have decreased serotonin and serotonin metabolism that persists into adulthood resulting in impaired impulse control and changes in other serotonin dependent related behaviors (Macri et al., 2007). If the decrease in serotonin function for these binge drinking adolescents persists into adulthood, these animals could have similar outcomes.
