Ethanol reduces brain tissue electrical conductivity

Motivation: Ethanol is a sedative which reduces brain metabolism and activity. We hypothesise that brain tissue conductivity is related to brain activity and tested to see if ethanol ingestion reduces tissue conductivity. Goal(s): To demonstrate a relationship between baseline brain activity and tissue conductivity. Approach: Using MREPT, data were acquired from 41 participants before and after ingestion of vodka and the resultant electrical conductivity maps were compared. Results: Spatially similar decreased electrical conductivity was seen in most participants. The spectrum of response was unrelated to the amount of alcohol consumed or to breath alcohol reading. No increased conductivity was seen. Impact: The results support the hypothesis that tissue conductivity is related to brain activity. This suggests that changes in electrical conductivity may be used as a surrogate for baseline brain activity which could be a useful biomarker of injury or degeneration.