Effects of Alcohol on Biochemical Processes in the Central Nervous System

Abstract

Observations on parameters of energy metabolism in intact animals and man suggest that ethanol primarily affects functional systems with slowing of metabolic reactions as a sequel. In work in vitro, slices of cerebral tissue stimulated with high potassium or electrical pulses comprise the only preparation showing metabolic alterations paralleling those seen in vivo. Measurement of respiration, metabolism of glucose and energy-rich phosphates, and levels of other metabolites including γ-aminobutyrate suggest that ethanol interferes with the functional response to stimulation--decreasing the rate of breakdown of energy-rich phosphate and altering other metabolic parameters by a feed-back effect of decreased energy demand. Inhibition of active transport has been demonstrated, and indirect biochemical evidence and direct electrophysiological measurement suggest that the excitation cycle is also affected. Metabolism of ethanol and effects of acetaldehyde seem to be negligible in the disturbance of nerve function caused by ethanol. The primary site of action of ethanol appears to be the excitable membranes.