Effects of ethanol intake on anti-oxidant responses and the lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans

The effects of alcohol stress on Caenorhabditis elegans were investigated. Nematodes were exposed to 1–5% alcohol, after which lifespan, movement, reactive oxygen species, antioxidant enzymes, cell apoptosis, and expression of apoptosis-related proteins were evaluated. Low concentrations of alcohol (1–2%) significantly enhanced total antioxidant capacity, along with an observable increase in normal locomotion. Total antioxidant activity was significantly lower at high (4–5%) than at low (1–2%) concentrations of alcohol. These results suggested that alcohol intake leads to an imbalance in oxidative defense in C. elegans. None of the groups administered alcohol displayed signs of apoptosis. Low concentrations of alcohol delayed decrepitude, promoted resistance to oxidative stress, and improved antioxidant capacity. However, nematodes could not withstand the oxidative stress induced by and toxicity of high alcohol concentrations, which eventually shortened their lifespan. This study provides a reference for the screening of drugs that reduce the side effects of alcohol.