High ethanol and acetaldehyde impair spatial memory in mouse models: Opposite effects of aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 and apolipoprotein E on memory

► Acetaldehyde mediates some of the behavioral effects of ethanol (EtOH). ► We have chosen Aldh2−/− mice, which are deficient in the enzyme ALDH2, and ApoE−/− mice, which are deficient in ApoE. ► Using two behavioral assessments, spatial memory was measured after acute exposure to EtOH in these mice. ► We conclude that high EtOH and AcH impair spatial memory in mice. ► In addition, genetic differences might underlie some of EtOH's effects on memory.