AMP-dependent kinase and autophagic flux are involved in aldehyde dehydrogenase-2-induced protection against cardiac toxicity of ethanol

► In this study we examined the protective mechanism of ALDH2 after alcohol intake. ► ALDH2 was found to rescue alcohol-induced cardiac dysfunction and remodeling. ► The beneficial effect of ALDH2 was mediated through Akt and AMPK signaling. ► ALDH2 exerted its protection through regulation of autophagic flux.