Mental health challenges, including anxiety, are common among people with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). While researchers have long known that prenatal alcohol exposure can affect brain development, there is still much to learn about why some individuals experience ongoing emotional and mental health difficulties.
Dr. Wong, a postdoctoral fellow in the Raineki Developmental Neuroscience Lab, is helping answer that question. In recognition of his work, CanFASD recently awarded the prestigious Dr. Sterling Clarren Research Award 2026. His research examines how prenatal alcohol exposure alters the gut-brain axis and contributes to emotional dysregulation.
The connection between the gut and anxiety
Using an animal model of prenatal alcohol exposure, Dr. Wong and his team found that prenatal alcohol exposure changed the abundance of specific microbes of the gut microbiota. These changes were linked to increased anxiety-like behaviour.
The gut contains trillions of bacteria that play an important role in overall health. In recent years, researchers have discovered that these bacteria can also influence how the brain functions and how people regulate emotions. This growing area of research is helping scientists better understand the connection between physical and mental health.
Dr. Wong’s findings suggest that changes in gut health may be one factor contributing to anxiety and emotional challenges experienced by some individuals with FASD.
Opening the door to new therapies
While more research is needed, this work opens the door to exploring therapies that focus on improving gut health through approaches such as nutrition, dietary supports, and other interventions designed to promote a healthy gut microbiome.
By looking beyond the brain and taking a whole-body approach, Dr. Wong’s research is providing new insights into FASD and helping move the field toward more effective supports for individuals and families affected by prenatal alcohol exposure.
CanFASD extends our congratulations to Dr. Wong on receiving the Dr. Sterling Clarren Research Award 2026. We thank him for his valuable contributions to the FASD field and look forward to seeing the impact of his future research!