Presentation Details
Anxiety-like behavior in adult zebrafish is modulated by cannabinoids in a dose-response pattern

Gustavo V.Silva, Milena S.Almeida, Nina P.C.Alves, Percilia C.Giaquinto.

Department of Structural and Functional Biology (Physiology), Institute of Biosciencies, Sao Paulo State University, Botucatu, Sao Paulo, Brazil

Abstract


Anxiety-like behavior guides avoidance responses to threats and, when exacerbated, may impair adaptive capacity. The endocannabinoid system modulates anxiety, however, the effects of exogenous cannabinoids remain unclear in animal models. We investigated the effects of cannabis oil on anxiety-like behavior in zebrafish. Fifty-four adults were treated for 7 days with vehicle (Control) or cannabis oil (1, 10, or 20 mg/kg of cannabidiol; CBD1, CBD10, CBD20, respectively). Fish were tested in the novel tank and light–dark preference tests. In the novel tank test, exploratory behavior was recorded for 5 min, with no significant group differences. In the light–dark test, fish were habituated in the dark compartment and then allowed to explore both compartments; immediate and late responses were analyzed. CBD10 fish showed shorter latency to enter the light compartment and fewer late risk assessment behaviors than all groups, consistent with an anxiolytic effect. In contrast, CBD1 and CBD20 reduced exploration from early to late phases, suggesting adaptive behavioral adjustment. In conclusion, cannabis oil may reduce anxiety-like behavior or promote adaptive flexibility.

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