Behavioral effects of bidirectional modulators of brain monoamines reserpine and d-amphetamine in zebrafish

The dopamine transporter inhibition using GBR 12909 as a novel pharmacological tool to assess bipolar disorder-like neurobehavioral phenotypes in zebrafish

Dopamine (DA) is a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in brain physiology. Changes in DA-mediated signaling have been implicated with the pathophysiology of various neuropsychiatric conditions. Bipolar disorder (BD) is a mental disorder, characterized by alterning between manic/hypomanic and depressive mood. In experimental research, the pharmacological inhibition of DA reuptake using GBR 12909 serves as a tool to elicit BD-like phenotypes. Alternative model organisms, such as the zebrafish (Danio rerio), have been considered important systems for investigating the neurobehavioral changes involved in different neuropsychiatric conditions, including BD. Here, we discuss the use of GBR 12909 as a novel pharmacological strategy to mimic BD-like phenotypes in zebrafish models. We also emphasize the well-conserved DA-mediated signaling in zebrafish and the early expression of dopaminergic biomarkers in the brain, especially focusing on dopamine transporter (DAT), the main target of GBR 12909. Finally, we discuss potential advantages and limitations in the field, the perspectives of using GBR 12909 in BD research, and how distinct validation criteria (i.e., face, predictive, and construct validity) can be assessed in translational approaches using zebrafish-based models.

Development of Nitric Oxide Releasing Oxoisoaporphines with Antidepressant Activities by Simultaneously Regulating MAO-A and SERT

The occurrence of depression is closely related to the decrease in serotonin (5-HT) levels in the synaptic cleft. Designing negative regulators aiming at intervening in MAO-A and serotonin transporter (SERT) could work synergistically to elevate synaptic 5-HT levels and thus might exhibit superior antidepressant efficacy. By linking the lead compound oxoisoaporphine to various nitric oxide donors, we endeavored to design and synthesize 10 synergistic negative regulators. The overarching objective was to maintain the original inhibitory effect on MAO-A while concurrently mitigating SERT-mediated reuptake of 5-HT. Within the spectrum of inhibitory compounds, I7 showcased the most formidable neuroprotective efficacy in a cellular depression model. In vivo experiments demonstrated that I7 significantly improved depressive behavior in both zebrafish and mice. Further research indicated that the antidepressant mechanism of I7 was associated with the downregulation of both MAO-A and SERT.

Methamphetamine effects in zebrafish (Danio rerio) depend on behavioral endpoint, dose and test session duration

Research using zebrafish (Danio rerio) has begun to provide novel information in many fields, including the behavioral pharmacology of drug use and misuse. There have been limited studies on the effects of methamphetamine in adult zebrafish and the parameters of exposure (dose, test session length) have not been well-documented. Behavior following drug exposure is generally measured during relatively short sessions (6-10 min is common) in a novel tank environment. Many procedural variables (isolation, netting, novel tank) elicit anxiety-like behavior that is most apparent during the initial portion of a test session. This anxiety-like behavior might mask the initial effects of methamphetamine. During longer test sessions, these anxiety-like responses would be expected to habituate and drug effects should become more apparent. To test this idea, we measured several locomotor activity responses for 50-min following a range of methamphetamine doses (0.1-3.0 mg/L via immersion in methamphetamine solution). Methamphetamine failed to alter swimming velocity, distance travelled, or freezing time. In contrast, methamphetamine produced a dose-dependent decrease in time spent in the bottom of the tank, an increase in the number of visits to the top of the tank, and an increase in the number of transitions along the sides of the tank. The effects of methamphetamine were apparent 10-20 min following exposure and generally persisted throughout the session. These findings indicate that longer test sessions are required to measure methamphetamine-induced changes in behavior in zebrafish, as has been shown in other laboratory animals. The results also suggest that anxiety-like responses associated with various procedural aspects (netting, isolation, novel test apparatus) likely interfere with the ability to observe many behavioral effects of methamphetamine in zebrafish. Based on the current results, habituation to testing procedures to reduce anxiety-like behaviors is recommended in determining the effects of methamphetamine in zebrafish.

Protective Effect of Hop Ethyl Acetate Extract on Corticosterone-Induced PC12 and Improvement of Depression-like Behavior in Mice

Depression is a common mental disorder. In recent years, more and more attention has been paid to depression and its etiology and pathogenesis. This review aims to explore the neuroprotective and antidepressant effects of hop components. By establishing an in vitro cell damage model using PC12 cells induced by corticosterone (CORT) and an in vivo depression model through the intracranial injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in mice, hop ethyl acetate extract (HEA) was used to study the protective effect and mechanism of HEA on neuronal cells in vitro and the antidepression effect and mechanism in vivo. The results showed that HEA increased the survival and decreased the rate of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, apoptosis, and the ROS and NO content of CORT-induced PC12 cells. HEA alleviated depressive-like behavior, neuroinflammation, reduction of norepinephrine, and dendritic spines induced by intracerebroventricular injection of LPS in mice and increases the expression levels of BDNF, SNAP 25, and TrkB proteins without any significant side effects or toxicity. Hops demonstrated significant comprehensive utilization value, and this work provided an experimental basis for the role of hops in the treatment of depression and provided a basis for the development of HEA for antidepressant drugs or dietary therapy products.

Depression and approach-avoidance achievement goals of Chinese undergraduate students: A four-wave longitudinal study

OBJECTIVE

The study explored the prospective relations between depression and approach-avoidance achievement goals of undergraduate students in China.

METHODS

2473 full-time undergraduates reported their depression and achievement goals annually from the freshman to the senior year. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and cross-lagged models.

RESULTS

Students' achievement goals decreased gradually during the first 3 years but rose in the fourth year, and the avoidance goals appeared to be less prevalent than the approach goals over time. Depression was negatively associated with approach goals, whereas positively correlated with avoidance goals. Depression in the freshman and sophomore years resulted in more avoidance goals 1 year later, and the depressive problems in the junior year predicted the decline of approach goals in the senior year.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study highlighted the deleterious effects of depression on the achievement goals of college students.

Systematic analysis of proximal midgut- and anorectal-originating contractions in larval zebrafish using event feature detection and supervised machine learning algorithms

BACKGROUND

Zebrafish larvae are translucent, allowing in vivo analysis of gut development and physiology, including gut motility. While recent progress has been made in measuring gut motility in larvae, challenges remain which can influence results, such as how data are interpreted, opportunities for technical user error, and inconsistencies in methods.

METHODS

To overcome these challenges, we noninvasively introduced Nile Red fluorescent dye to fill the intraluminal gut space in zebrafish larvae and collected serial confocal microscopic images of gut fluorescence. We automated the detection of fluorescent-contrasted contraction events against the median-subtracted signal and compared it to manually annotated gut contraction events across anatomically defined gut regions. Supervised machine learning (multiple logistic regression) was then used to discriminate between true contraction events and noise. To demonstrate, we analyzed motility in larvae under control and reserpine-treated conditions. We also used automated event detection analysis to compare unfed and fed larvae.

KEY RESULTS

Automated analysis retained event features for proximal midgut-originating retrograde and anterograde contractions and anorectal-originating retrograde contractions. While manual annotation showed reserpine disrupted gut motility, machine learning only achieved equivalent contraction discrimination in controls and failed to accurately identify contractions after reserpine due to insufficient intraluminal fluorescence. Automated analysis also showed feeding had no effect on the frequency of anorectal-originating contractions.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Automated event detection analysis rapidly and accurately annotated contraction events, including the previously neglected phenomenon of anorectal contractions. However, challenges remain to discriminate contraction events based on intraluminal fluorescence under treatment conditions that disrupt functional motility.

Fluoxetine rescues the depressive-like behaviour induced by reserpine and the altered emotional behaviour induced by nicotine withdrawal in zebrafish: Involvement of tyrosine hydroxylase

BACKGROUND

Nicotine cessation leads to anxiety and depression.

AIMS

The suitability of the zebrafish model of anhedonia using reserpine and fluoxetine was evaluated. Fluoxetine was also used to reduce nicotine withdrawal-induced anhedonic state.

METHODS

Zebrafish were exposed to reserpine (40 mg/l) and then to fluoxetine (0.1 mg/l) for 1 week. Anhedonia was evaluated in the Novel Tank Diving and Compartment Preference tests. Another group was exposed to nicotine (1 mg/l/2 weeks) and then exposed to fluoxetine. Anxiety and anhedonia were evaluated 2-60 days after. Tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) immunoreactivity and microglial morphology (labelled by 4C4 monoclonal antibody) in the parvocellular pretectal nucleus (PPN), dorsal part, and of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the hypothalamus were also analysed.

RESULTS

Less time in the top and increased latency to the top in reserpine compared to a drug-free group was found. Fluoxetine rescued reserpine-induced the reduced time in the top. Seven and 30 days after nicotine withdrawal more time in the bottom and similar time in the Compartment Preference test, rescued by fluoxetine, were shown. In the PPN, 30-day withdrawal induced an increase in TH immunoreactivity, but fluoxetine induced a further significant increase. No changes in PPN microglia morphology and hypothalamic CGRP were detected.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings validate the suitability of the zebrafish model of anhedonia using the reserpine-induced depression-like behaviour and the predictivity using fluoxetine. Fluoxetine rescued nicotine withdrawal-induced anhedonic state, opening the possibility to screen new drugs to alleviate anxiety and depression in smokers during abstinence.

Folate deprivation induced neuroinflammation impairs cognition

Nutritional status is associated with many neurocognitive diseases. Folate is one of the micronutrients, and its deficiency is associated with clinical outcomes of neurological diseases. Nevertheless, molecular mechanism behind the folate deficiency induced neurological disorders are not well-known. We have hypothesized that folate-deficiency is a cardinal determinant responsible for manifestation of cognitive impairment through inflammation mediated neurodegenerative pathologies. Objective of the current study was to assess whether folate deficiency is associated with cognitive dysfunction or is merely an epiphenomenon and to identify the underlying mechanisms. We developed folate insufficient zebrafish model through intra-peritoneal treatment of methotrexate. T-maze test was carried to assess the spatial learning and memory of the fish. Higher latency of the folate-deprived zebrafishes in the T-maze test is a reflection of altered cognition. This result is supported by declined levels of dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters linked with learning and memory. Elevated IL-6 and CRP in peripheral blood, along with increased expression of NF-ĸB in brain indicates manifestation of neuroinflammation. Indeed, together with upregulation of maptb gene it can be implied that folate deficiency acts as a risk factor for neurodegeneration in the form of tauopathies. Furthermore, diminished localisation of synaptopodin, a protein linked to neural plasticity, suggests that neuroinflammation caused by folate deprivation hampers the plasticity of brain. Histological analysis of brain revealed the development of histopathological features including spongiform degeneration and neuronal loss in folate deprived condition. We thus conclude that folate deficiency results in NF-ĸB activation, which through multiple processes mediated by neuroinflammation could lead to cognitive decline.

Effects of acute metaphedrone exposure on the development, behaviour, and DNA integrity of zebrafish (Danio rerio)

The presence of new psychoactive substances (NPS), like metaphedrone (3-MMC), in aquatic environments raises concern about the potential negative effects on ichthyofauna. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the potential effects of 3-MMC on zebrafish embryonic development, behaviour, and DNA integrity. For that, embryos were exposed during 96 h post-fertilization to 3-MMC (0.1, 1, 10, and 100 µg/L). Overall, an increase in the eye area of zebrafish larvae was observed for the concentrations of 1 μg/L (increase of 24%) and 100 μg/L (increase of 25%) in comparison with the control group. Genetic damage was noted at the highest concentration (100 µg/L) with an increase of DNA damage (increase of 48%) and hyperactivity and disorganised swimming pattern characterised by an increase in speed (increase of 49%), total distance moved (increase of 53%), and absolute turn angle (increase of 48%) of zebrafish larvae. These findings pointed that, at environmental low levels, 3-MMC harmful effects are not expected to occur during critical development life stages of fish.

Acute administration of a dopamine D2/D3 receptor agonist alters behavioral and neural parameters in adult zebrafish

The dopaminergic neurotransmitter system is implicated in several brain functions and behavioral processes. Alterations in it are associated with the pathogenesis of several human neurological disorders. Pharmacological agents that interact with the dopaminergic system allow the investigation of dopamine-mediated cellular and molecular responses and may elucidate the biological bases of such disorders. Zebrafish, a translationally relevant biomedical research organism, has been successfully employed in prior psychopharmacology studies. Here, we evaluated the effects of quinpirole (dopamine D2/D3 receptor agonist) in adult zebrafish on behavioral parameters, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotransmitter levels. Zebrafish received intraperitoneal injections of 0.5, 1.0, or 2.0 mg/kg quinpirole or saline (control group) twice with an inter-injection interval of 48 h. All tests were performed 24 h after the second injection. After this acute quinpirole administration, zebrafish exhibited decreased locomotor activity, increased anxiety-like behaviors and memory impairment. However, quinpirole did not affect social and aggressive behavior. Quinpirole-treated fish exhibited stereotypic swimming, characterized by repetitive behavior followed by immobile episodes. Moreover, quinpirole treatment also decreased the number of BDNF-immunoreactive cells in the zebrafish brain. Analysis of neurotransmitter levels demonstrated a significant increase in glutamate and a decrease in serotonin, while no alterations were observed in dopamine. These findings demonstrate that dopaminergic signaling altered by quinpirole administration results in significant behavioral and neuroplastic changes in the central nervous system of zebrafish. Thus, we conclude that the use of quinpirole administration in adult zebrafish may be an appropriate tool for the analysis of mechanisms underlying neurological disorders related to the dopaminergic system.

Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. Extract ameliorates branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) metabolism in acute reserpine-induced stress zebrafish model via 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR)-based metabolomics approach

Depression is a common mental disorder that can adversely affect psychosocial function and quality of life. However, the exact aetiology and pathogenesis of depression are still unclear. Stress plays a major role in the pathogenesis of depression. The use of currently prescribed antidepressants has many side effects. Centella asiatica (C. asiatica) has shown promising antidepressant activity in rodent models. Here, we developed a reserpine-induced zebrafish stress-like model and performed behavioural analysis, cortisol measurement and ¹H-Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (¹H NMR) spectroscopy-based metabolomics analysis to test the anti-stress activity of ethanolic extract of C. asiatica (RECA). A significant increase in total distance travelled (F_(8,8) = 8.905, p = 0.0054) and a reduction in freezing duration (F_{(9, 9)} = 10.38, p = 0.0018) were found in the open field test (OFT). Asiaticoside, one of tested C.asiatica's triterpenoid gives a significant increase in contact duration (F_(5,5) = 142.3, (p = 0.0330) at 2.5 mg/kg). Eight biomarkers were found, i.e. ß-hydroxyisovaleric acid, leucine, threonine, scylloinositol, lactate, betaine, valine, choline and l-fucose, to be responsible for the class separation between stress and RECA-treated groups. Metabolic pathway alteration in zebrafish brain upon treatment with RECA was identified as valine, leucine and isoleucine biosynthesis, while alanine, aspartate, glutamate and glycerophospholipid metabolism was involved after fluoxetine treatment.

Physical exercise prevents behavioral alterations in a reserpine-treated zebrafish: A putative depression model

Major depressive disorder (MDD) has increasingly reached the world population with an expressive increase in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Here we used adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a model to verify the effects of reserpine on behavior and neurotransmitter levels. We observed an increase in the immobile time and time spent in the bottom zone of the tank in reserpine-exposed animals. The results demonstrated a decrease in distance traveled and velocity. Reserpine exposure did not induce changes in memory and social interaction compared to the control group. We also evaluated the influence of exposure to fluoxetine, a well-known antidepressant, on the behavior of reserpine-exposed animals. We observed a reversal of behavioral alterations caused by reserpine. To verify whether behavioral alterations in the putative depression model induced by reserpine could be prevented, the animals were subjected to physical exercise for 6 weeks. The results showed a protective effect of the physical exercise against the behavioral changes caused by reserpine in zebrafish. In addition, we observed a reduction in dopamine and serotonin levels and an increase in the 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) levels in the brain. Physical exercise was able to prevent the changes in dopamine and serotonin levels, reinforcing that the preventive effect promoted by physical exercise is related to the modulation of neurotransmitter levels. Our findings showed that reserpine was effective in the induction of a putative depression model in zebrafish and that physical exercise may be an alternative to prevent the effects induced by reserpine.

A Mini-Review Regarding the Modalities to Study Neurodevelopmental Disorders-Like Impairments in Zebrafish—Focussing on Neurobehavioural and Psychological Responses

Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are complex disorders which can be associated with many comorbidities and exhibit multifactorial-dependent phenotypes. An important characteristic is represented by the early onset of the symptoms, during childhood or young adulthood, with a great impact on the socio-cognitive functioning of the affected individuals. Thus, the aim of our review is to describe and to argue the necessity of early developmental stages zebrafish models, focusing on NDDs, especially autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and also on schizophrenia. The utility of the animal models in NDDs or schizophrenia research remains quite controversial. Relevant discussions can be opened regarding the specific characteristics of the animal models and the relationship with the etiologies, physiopathology, and development of these disorders. The zebrafish models behaviors displayed as early as during the pre-hatching embryo stage (locomotor activity prone to repetitive behavior), and post-hatching embryo stage, such as memory, perception, affective-like, and social behaviors can be relevant in ASD and schizophrenia research. The neurophysiological processes impaired in both ASD and schizophrenia are generally highly conserved across all vertebrates. However, the relatively late individual development and conscious social behavior exhibited later in the larval stage are some of the most important limitations of these model animal species.

Towards translational modeling of behavioral despair and its treatment in zebrafish

Depression is a widespread and severely debilitating neuropsychiatric disorder whose key clinical symptoms include low mood, anhedonia and despair (the inability or unwillingness to overcome stressors). Experimental animal models are widely used to improve our mechanistic understanding of depression pathogenesis, and to develop novel antidepressant therapies. In rodents, various experimental models of 'behavioral despair' have already been developed and rigorously validated. Complementing rodent studies, the zebrafish (Danio rerio) is emerging as a powerful model organism to assess pathobiological mechanisms of depression and other related affective disorders. Here, we critically discuss the developing potential and important translational implications of zebrafish models for studying despair and its mechanisms, and the utility of such aquatic models for antidepressant drug screening.

Artificial intelligence-driven phenotyping of zebrafish psychoactive drug responses

Zebrafish (Danio rerio) are rapidly emerging in biomedicine as promising tools for disease modelling and drug discovery. The use of zebrafish for neuroscience research is also growing rapidly, necessitating novel reliable and unbiased methods of neurophenotypic data collection and analyses. Here, we applied the artificial intelligence (AI) neural network-based algorithms to a large dataset of adult zebrafish locomotor tracks collected previously in a series of in vivo experiments with multiple established psychotropic drugs. We first trained AI to recognize various drugs from a wide range of psychotropic agents tested, and then confirmed prediction accuracy of trained AI by comparing several agents with known similar behavioral and pharmacological profiles. Presenting a framework for innovative neurophenotyping, this proof-of-concept study aims to improve AI-driven movement pattern classification in zebrafish, thereby fostering drug discovery and development utilizing this key model organism.

A Zebrafish Model of Neurotoxicity by Binge-Like Methamphetamine Exposure

Hyperthermia is a common confounding factor for assessing the neurotoxic effects of methamphetamine (METH) in mammalian models. The development of new models of methamphetamine neurotoxicity using vertebrate poikilothermic animals should allow to overcome this problem. The aim of the present study was to develop a zebrafish model of neurotoxicity by binge-like methamphetamine exposure. After an initial testing at 20 and 40 mg/L for 48 h, the later METH concentration was selected for developing the model and the effects on the brain monoaminergic profile, locomotor, anxiety-like and social behaviors as well as on the expression of key genes of the catecholaminergic system were determined. A concentration- and time-dependent decrease in the brain levels of dopamine (DA), norepinephrine (NE) and serotonin (5-HT) was found in METH-exposed fish. A significant hyperactivity was found during the first hour of exposure, followed 3 h after by a positive geotaxis and negative scototaxis in the novel tank and in the light/dark paradigm, respectively. Moreover, the behavioral phenotype in the treated fish was consistent with social isolation. At transcriptional level, th1 and slc18a2 (vmat2) exhibited a significant increase after 3 h of exposure, whereas the expression of gfap, a marker of astroglial response to neuronal injury, was strongly increased after 48 h exposure. However, no evidences of oxidative stress were found in the brain of the treated fish. Altogether, this study demonstrates the suitability of the adult zebrafish as a model of METH-induced neurotoxicity and provides more information about the biochemical and behavioral consequences of METH abuse.

Influence of Incorporation of Different dn-Electron Metal Cations into Biologically Active System on Its Biological and Physicochemical Properties

Three new compounds, namely [HL]₂⁺[CuCl₄]^2-, [HL]₂⁺[ZnCl₄]^2-, and [HL]₂⁺[CdCl₄]^2- (where L: imipramine) were synthesized and their physicochemical and biological properties were thoroughly investigated. All three compounds form isostructural, crystalline systems, which have been studied using Single-Crystal X-ray diffraction analysis (SC-XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The thermal stability was investigated using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and melting points for all compounds have been determined. Magnetic measurements were performed in order to study the magnetic properties of the compounds. The above mentioned techniques allowed us to comprehensively examine the physicochemical properties of the newly obtained compounds. The biological activity was investigated using the number of Zebrafish tests, as it is one of the most common models for studying the impact of newly synthesized compounds on the central nervous system (CNS), since this model is very similar to the human CNS.

How do zebrafish (Danio rerio) respond to MK-801 and amphetamine? Relevance for assessing schizophrenia-related endophenotypes in alternative model organisms

Schizophrenia pathophysiology has been associated with dopaminergic hyperactivity, NMDA receptor hypofunction, and redox dysregulation. Most behavioral assays and animal models to study this condition were developed in rodents, leaving room for species-specific biases that could be avoided by cross-species approaches. As MK-801 and amphetamine are largely used in mice and rats to mimic schizophrenia features, this study aimed to compare the effects of these drugs in several zebrafish (Danio rerio) behavioral assays. Male and female adult zebrafish were exposed to MK-801 (1, 5, and 10 μM) or amphetamine (0.625, 2.5, and 10 mg/L) and observed in paradigms of locomotor activity and social behavior. Oxidative parameters were quantified in brain tissue. Our results demonstrate that MK-801 disrupted social interaction, an effect that resembles the negative symptoms of schizophrenia. It also altered locomotion in a context-dependent manner, with hyperactivity when fish were tested in the presence of social cues and hypoactivity when tested alone. On the other hand, exposure to amphetamine was devoid of effects on locomotion and social behavior, while it increased lipid peroxidation in the brain. Key outcomes induced by MK-801 in rodents, such as social interaction deficit and locomotor alterations, were replicated in zebrafish, corroborating previous studies and reinforcing the use of zebrafish to study schizophrenia-related endophenotypes. More studies are necessary to assess the predictive validity of preclinical paradigms with this species and ultimately optimize the screening of potential novel treatments.

A Reliable High-Throughput Screening Model for Antidepressant

Depression is the most frequent affective disorder and is the leading cause of disability worldwide. In order to screen antidepressants and explore molecular mechanisms, a variety of animal models were used in experiments, but there is no reliable high-throughput screening method. Zebrafish is a common model organism for mental illness such as depression. In our research, we established chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) models in C57BL/6 mice and zebrafish; the similarities in behavior and pathology suggest that zebrafish can replace rodents as high-throughput screening organisms. Stress mice (ip., 1 mg/kg/d, 3 days) and zebrafish (10 mg/L, 20 min) were treated with reserpine. As a result, reserpine caused depression-like behavior in mice, which was consistent with the results of the CUMS mice model. Additionally, reserpine reduced the locomotor ability and exploratory behavior of zebrafish, which was consistent with the results of the CUMS zebrafish model. Further analysis of the metabolic differences showed that the reserpine-induced zebrafish depression model was similar to the reserpine mice model and the CUMS mice model in the tyrosine metabolism pathway. The above results showed that the reserpine-induced depression zebrafish model was similar to the CUMS model from phenotype to internal metabolic changes and can replace the CUMS model for antidepressants screening. Moreover, the results from this model were obtained in a short time, which can shorten the cycle of drug screening and achieve high-throughput screening. Therefore, we believe it is a reliable high-throughput screening model.

Zebrafish as an Animal Model for Testing Agents with Antidepressant Potential

Depression is a serious mental disease that, according to statistics, affects 320 million people worldwide. Additionally, a current situation related to the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant deterioration of mental health in people around the world. So far, rodents have been treated as basic animal models used in studies on this disease, but in recent years, Danio rerio has emerged as a new organism that might serve well in preclinical experiments. Zebrafish have a lot of advantages, such as a quick reproductive cycle, transparent body during the early developmental stages, high genetic and physiological homology to humans, and low costs of maintenance. Here, we discuss the potential of the zebrafish model to be used in behavioral studies focused on testing agents with antidepressant potential.

Clitorienolactones and Isoflavonoids of Clitorea ternatea Roots Alleviate Stress-Like Symptoms in a Reserpine-Induced Zebrafish Model

Clitorea ternatea has been used in Ayurvedic medicine as a brain stimulant to treat mental illnesses and mental functional disorders. In this study, the metabolite profiles of crude C. ternatea root extract (CTRE), ethyl acetate (EA), and 50% aqueous methanol (50% MeOH) fractions were investigated using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography–diode array detector–tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC–DAD–MS/MS), while their effect on the stress-like behavior of zebrafish, pharmacologically induced with reserpine, was investigated. A total of 32 compounds were putatively identified, among which, a series of norneolignans, clitorienolactones, and various flavonoids (flavone, flavonol, isoflavone, and isoflavanone) was found to comprise the major constituents, particularly in the EA and 50% MeOH fractions. The clitorienolactones, presently unique to the species, were present in both the free and glycosylated forms in the roots. Both the EA and 50% MeOH fractions displayed moderate effects on the stress-induced zebrafish model, significantly decreasing freezing duration and elevating the total distance travelled and average velocity, 72 h post-treatment. The results of the present study provide further evidence that the basis for the use of C. ternatea roots in traditional medicine to alleviate brain-related conditions, such as stress and depression, is attributable to the presence of clitorienolactones and the isoflavonoidal constituents.

Perturbations in Amino Acid Metabolism in Reserpine-Treated Zebrafish Brain Detected by 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance-Based Metabolomics

Depression is a complex and disabling psychiatric disorder, which is expected to be a leading cause for disability by 2030. According to World Health Organization, about 350 million people are suffering with mental health disorders around the globe, especially depression. However, the mechanisms involved in stress-induced depression have not been fully elucidated. In this study, a stress-like state was pharmacologically induced in zebrafish using reserpine, a drug widely used to mediate depression in experimental animal models. Zebrafish received single intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of 20, 40, and 80 mg/kg body weight reserpine doses and were subjected to open-field test at 2, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h after the treatment. Along with observed changes in behavior and measurement of cortisol levels, the fish were further examined for perturbations in their brain metabolites by ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomics. We found a significant increase in freezing duration, whereas total distance travelled was decreased 24 h after single intraperitoneal injection of reserpine. Cortisol level was also found to be higher after 48 h of reserpine treatment. The ¹H NMR data showed that the levels of metabolites such as glutamate, glutamine, histamine, valine, leucine and histidine, lactate, l-fucose, betaine and γ-amino butyric acid (GABA), β-hydroxyisovalerate, and glutathione were significantly decreased in the reserpine-treated group. This study provided some insights into the molecular nature of stress that could contribute toward a better understanding of depression disorder.

Zebrafish Larvae Carrying a Splice Variant Mutation in cacna1d: A New Model for Schizophrenia-Like Behaviours?

Persons with certain single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the CACNA1D gene (encoding voltage-gated calcium channel subunit alpha 1-D) have increased risk of developing neuropsychiatric disorders such as bipolar, schizophrenia and autism. The molecular consequences of SNPs on gene expression and protein function are not well understood. Thus, the use of animal models to determine genotype-phenotype correlations is critical to understanding disease pathogenesis. Here, we describe the behavioural changes in larval zebrafish carrying an essential splice site mutation (sa17298) in cacna1da. Heterozygous mutation resulted in 50% reduction of splice variants 201 and 202 (haploinsufficiency), while homozygosity increased transcript levels of variant 201 above wild type (WT; gain-of-function, GOF). Due to low homozygote viability, we focused primarily on performing the phenotypic analysis on heterozygotes. Indeed, cacna1dasa17298/WT larvae displayed hyperlocomotion-a behaviour characterised in zebrafish as a surrogate phenotype for epilepsy, anxiety or psychosis-like behaviour. Follow-up tests ruled out anxiety or seizures, however, as neither thigmotaxis defects nor epileptiform-like discharges in larval brains were observed. We therefore focused on testing for potential "psychosis-like" behaviour by assaying cacna1dasa17298/WT larval locomotor activity under constant light, during light-dark transition and in startle response to dark flashes. Furthermore, exposure of larvae to the antipsychotics, risperidone and haloperidol reversed cacna1da-induced hyperactivity to WT levels while valproate decreased but did not reverse hyperactivity. Together, these findings demonstrate that cacna1da haploinsufficiency induces behaviours in larval zebrafish analogous to those observed in rodent models of psychosis. Future studies on homozygous mutants will determine how cacna1d GOF alters behaviour in this context.

Glyphosate targets fish monoaminergic systems leading to oxidative stress and anxiety

Glyphosate is the active ingredient of some of the most highly produced and used herbicides worldwide. The intensive applications of glyphosate-based herbicides and its half-life in water lead to its presence in many aquatic ecosystems. Whereas recent studies have reported neurotoxic effects of glyphosate including autism-related effects, most of them used extremely high (mg/L to g/L) concentrations, so it is still unclear if chronic, low environmentally relevant concentrations of this compound (ng/L to μg/L) can induce neurotoxicity. In this study we analyzed the neurotoxicity of glyphosate in adult zebrafish after waterborne exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations (0.3 and 3 μg/L) for two weeks. Our data showed that exposed fish presented a significant impairment of exploratory and social behaviors consistent with increased anxiety. The anterior brain of the exposed fish presented a significant increase in dopamine and serotonin levels, as well as in the DOPAC/dopamine and homovanillic acid/dopamine turnover ratios. Moreover, the expression of genes involved in the dopaminergic system, as th1, th2, comtb, and scl6a3 was downregulated. Finally, the brain of exposed fish presented a significant increase in the catalase and superoxide dismutase activities, with a concomitant decrease of glutathione stores. These changes in the antioxidant defense system are consistent with the observed increase in oxidative stress, reflected by the increase in the levels of lipid peroxidation in the brain. The presented results show that current glyphosate concentrations commonly found in many aquatic ecosystems may have detrimental consequences on fish survival by decreasing exploration of the environment or altering social interactions. Furthermore, as zebrafish is also a vertebrate model widely used in human neurobehavioral studies, these results are relevant not only for environmental risk assessment, but also for understanding the risk of chronic low-dose exposures on human health.

Zingiber officinale Ethanolic Extract Attenuated Reserpine-Induced Depression-Like Condition and Associated Hippocampal Aberrations in Experimental Wistar Rats

BACKGROUND

Repeated and regimented treatment with reserpine causes depression-like condition characterized by persistent mood disorder, feelings of severe despondency and dejection, thus altering the hippocampal morphology. Our study compared a well-known antidepressant (fluoxetine), with the potential of Zingiber officinale to ameliorate reserpine-induced depression and the associated hippocampal cornu ammonis 1 (CA1) neuronal cell damage.

METHODS

Forty-eight male Wistar rats, weighing 130-160 g, were randomly assigned to 6 groups (n=8), housed in plastic cages under natural light and dark cycles at room temperature with access to feed and water ad libitum. Group-A (control) received distilled water. Group-B and Group-C orally received 400 mg/kg of Zingiber officinale and 10 mg/kg of fluoxetine, respectively, for 7 days, while Group-D intraperitoneally received 0.2 mg/kg of reserpine for 14 days. Group-E and Group-F intraperitoneally received 0.2 mg/kg of reserpine for 14 days followed by 400 mg/kg of Zingiber officinale and 10 mg/kg of fluoxetine respectively for 7 days. All animals were sacrificed by cervical dislocation at the end of experiment, and the brains hippocampi were dissected, excised and processed for various analyses including histology [H&E], histochemistry of GFAP expression by astrocytes and specific gene expressions including p53 gene, glutathione reductase (GSR), glutathione peroxidase and catalase (CAT).

RESULTS

Reserpine significantly depleted the expression of P53 and glutathione reductase (GSR) genes while significantly increasing the expression of glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx-1) gene (P≤0.05). Also, a marked increase in the expression of catalase (CAT) gene was observed. Furthermore, histoarchitecture (photomicrographs) of hippocampus CA1 region showed disruption in the arrangement of pyramidal neurons and alterations in their morphologies when animals were treated with reserpine (Group D). There was also accompanying increased astrocyte densities within the CA1 region following reserpine treatment. These features indicated deleterious effects of reserpine. Both Zingiber officinale and fluoxetine treatments ameliorated these effects.

CONCLUSION

These findings showed structural and molecular alterations associated with reserpine-induced depression. Also, Zingiber officinale was effective to provide ameliorative and protective effects against the neurotoxic effects of reserpine in the hippocampus, making it a potential candidate for treating depression and its associated neurodegenerative diseases.

Review on the occurrence and biological effects of illicit drugs in aquatic ecosystems

Illicit drugs (IDs) and their metabolites are recognized as contaminants of emerging concern. After consumption, illicit drugs are partially metabolized and excreted unchanged in urine and feces or as active metabolites reaching wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Furthermore, most WWTPs are insufficient in the treatment of effluents containing IDs, which may be released into aquatic ecosystems. Once in the water or sediment, these substances may interact and affect non-target organisms and some evidences suggest that illicit drugs may exhibit pseudo-persistence because of a continuous environmental input, resulting in long-term exposure to aquatic organisms that may be negatively affected by these biologically active compounds. We reviewed the literature on origin and consumption, human metabolism after consumption, aquatic occurrences, and toxicity of the major groups of illicit drugs (opioids, cannabis, synthetic drugs, and cocaine). As a result, it could be concluded that illicit drugs and their metabolites are widespread in diverse aquatic ecosystems in levels able to trigger sublethal effects to non-target organisms, besides to concentrate in seafood. This class of emerging contaminants represents a new environmental concern to academics, managers, and policymakers, whose would be able to assess risks and identify proper responses to reduce environmental impacts.

Targeting redox metabolism: the perfect storm induced by acrylamide poisoning in the brain

Exposure to acrylamide may lead to different neurotoxic effects in humans and in experimental animals. To gain insights into this poorly understood type of neurotoxicological damage, we used a multi-omic approach to characterize the molecular changes occurring in the zebrafish brain exposed to acrylamide at metabolite, transcript and protein levels. We detected the formation of acrylamide adducts with thiol groups from both metabolites and protein residues, leading to a quasi-complete depletion of glutathione and to the inactivation of different components of the thioredoxin system. We propose that the combined loss-of-function of both redox metabolism-related systems configure a perfect storm that explains many acrylamide neurotoxic effects, like the dysregulation of genes related to microtubules, presynaptic vesicle alteration, and behavioral alterations. We consider that our mechanistical approach may help developing new treatments against the neurotoxic effects of acrylamide and of other neurotoxicants that may share its toxic mode of action.

Anthropogenic contaminants of high concern: Existence in water resources and their adverse effects

Existence of anthropogenic contaminants (ACs) in different environmental matrices is a serious and unresolved concern. For instance, ACs from different sectors, such as industrial, agricultural, and pharmaceutical, are found in water bodies with considerable endocrine disruptors potency and can damage the biotic components of the environment. The continuous ACs exposure can cause cellular toxicity, apoptosis, genotoxicity, and alterations in sex ratios in human beings. Whereas, aquatic organisms show bioaccumulation, trophic chains, and biomagnification of ACs through different entry route. These problems have been found in many countries around the globe, making them a worldwide concern. ACs have been found in different environmental matrices, such as water reservoirs for human consumption, wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs), groundwaters, surface waters, rivers, and seas, which demonstrate their free movement within the environment in an uncontrolled manner. This work provides a detailed overview of ACs occurrence in water bodies along with their toxicological effect on living organisms. The literature data reported between 2017 and 2018 is compiled following inclusion-exclusion criteria, and the obtained information was mapped as per type and source of ACs. The most important ACs are pharmaceuticals (diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen, ofloxacin, acetaminophen, progesterone ranitidine, and testosterone), agricultural products or pesticides (atrazine, carbendazim, fipronil), narcotics and illegal drugs (amphetamines, cocaine, and benzoylecgonine), food industry derivatives (bisphenol A, and caffeine), and personal care products (triclosan, and other related surfactants). Considering this threatening issue, robust detection and removal strategies must be considered in the design of WWTPs and DWTPs.

The psychoactive cathinone derivative pyrovalerone alters locomotor activity and decreases dopamine receptor expression in zebrafish (Danio rerio)

INTRODUCTION

Pyrovalerone (4-methyl-β-keto-prolintane) is a synthetic cathinone (beta-keto-amphetamine) derivative. Cathinones are a concern as drugs of abuse, as related street drugs such as methylenedioxypyrovalerone have garnered significant attention. The primary mechanism of action of cathinones is to inhibit reuptake transporters (dopamine and norepinephrine) in reward centers of the central nervous system.

METHODS

We measured bioenergetic, behavioral, and molecular responses to pyrovalerone (nM-µM) in zebrafish to evaluate its potential for neurotoxicity and neurological impairment.

RESULTS

Pyrovalerone did not induce any mortality in zebrafish larvae over a 3- and 24-hr period; however, seizures were prevalent at the highest dose tested (100 µM). Oxidative phosphorylation was not affected in the embryos, and there was no change in superoxide dismutase 1 expression. Following a 3-hr treatment to pyrovalerone (1-100 µM), larval zebrafish (6d) showed a dose-dependent decrease (70%-90%) in total distance moved in a visual motor response (VMR) test. We interrogated potential mechanisms related to the hypoactivity, focusing on the expression of dopamine-related transcripts as cathinones can modulate the dopamine system. Pyrovalerone decreased the expression levels of dopamine receptor D1 (~60%) in larval zebrafish but did not affect the expression of tyrosine hydroxylase, dopamine active transporter, or any other dopamine receptor subunit examined, suggesting that pyrovalerone may regulate the expression of dopamine receptors in a specific manner.

DISCUSSION

Further studies using zebrafish are expected to reveal new insight into molecular mechanisms and behavioral responses to cathinone derivates, and zebrafish may be a useful model for understanding the relationship between the dopamine system and bath salts.

Venlafaxine plus melatonin ameliorate reserpine-induced depression-like behavior in zebrafish

Venlafaxine (VEN) is one of the first clinical drugs for the treatment of depression. Long-term use may cause a potentially life-threatening serotonin syndrome. Melatonin (MT) could ameliorate depression behavior. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the antidepressant effects of venlafaxine in combination with melatonin on zebrafish. Reserpine was used to induce depression-like behavioral zebrafish. To explore the effects of combined use of venlafaxine and melatonin on depression-like zebrafish induced by reserpine. We tested the depressive behavior of adult zebrafish through a novel tank test, and evaluated the levels of serotonin (5-HT), dopamine (DA) and noradrenaline (NA) in zebrafish brain using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), besides that the gene expression of serotonin transporters a (serta), dopamine transporters (dat) and norepinephrine transporters (net), vesicular monoamine transporter2 (vmat2) and monoamine oxidase (mao) were evaluated by qRT-PCR. The results showed that, compared with reserpine-only group, venlafaxine (VEN, 0.025 mg/L) and melatonin (MT, 1 μM) increased the parameters of exploration in the top of the tank and decreased freezing behavior significantly. Compared with reserpine-only group, the use of VEN combined with MT increased serotonin and norepinephrine levels significantly, while there was no obvious difference in dopamine content. The results of qRT-PCR showed that the use of VEN combined with MT significantly reduced the expression of serta and promoted the expression of vmat2, but had no significant effect on the expression of net, dat and mao. The results indicated that venlafaxine combined with melatonin showed more effective role to remedy the depressive symptoms in zebrafish, providing a reference for the clinical application of antidepressants.

Developmental neurotoxicity of reserpine exposure in zebrafish larvae (Danio rerio)

Reserpine is widely used for treatment of hypertension and schizophrenia. As a specific inhibitor of monoamine transporters, reserpine is known to deplete monoamine neurotransmitters and cause decreased movement symptoms. However, how zebrafish larvae respond to reserpine treatment is not well studied. Here we show that swimming distance and average velocity are significantly reduced after reserpine exposure under various stimulatory conditions. Using liquid chromatograph-mass spectrometer analysis, decreased levels of monoamines (e.g. dopamine, noradrenaline, and serotonin) were detected in reserpine-treated larvae. Moreover, reserpine treatment significantly reduced the number of dopaminergic neurons, which was identified with th (Tyrosine Hydroxylase) in situ hybridization in the preoptic area. Interestingly, dopaminergic neuron development-associated genes, such as otpa, otpb, wnt1, wnt3, wnt5 and manf, were downregulated in reserpine treated larvae. Our data indicates that 2 mg/L reserpine exposure induces dopaminergic neuron damage in the brain, demonstrating a chemical induced depression-like model in zebrafish larvae for future drug development.

A critical review of zebrafish schizophrenia models: Time for validation?

Schizophrenia is a mental disorder that affects 1% of the population worldwide and is manifested as a broad spectrum of symptoms, from hallucinations to memory impairment. It is believed that genetic and/or environmental factors may contribute to the occurrence of this disease. Recently, the zebrafish has emerged as a valuable and attractive model for various neurological disorders including schizophrenia. In this review, we describe current pharmacological models of schizophrenia with special emphasis on providing insights into the pros and cons of using zebrafish as a behavioural model of this disease. Moreover, we highlight the advantages and utility of using zebrafish for elucidating the genetic mechanisms underlying this psychiatric disorder. We believe that the zebrafish has high potential also in the area of precision medicine and may complement the development of therapeutics, especially for pharmacoresistant patients.

Animal models of major depressive disorder and the implications for drug discovery and development

INTRODUCTION

Depression is a highly debilitating psychiatric disorder that affects the global population and causes severe disabilities and suicide. Depression pathogenesis remains poorly understood, and the disorder is often treatment-resistant and recurrent, necessitating the development of novel therapies, models and concepts in this field. Areas covered: Animal models are indispensable for translational biological psychiatry, and markedly advance the study of depression. Novel approaches continuously emerge that may help untangle the disorder heterogeneity and unclear categories of disease classification systems. Some of these approaches include widening the spectrum of model species used for translational research, using a broader range of test paradigms, exploring new pathogenic pathways and biomarkers, and focusing more closely on processes beyond neural cells (e.g. glial, inflammatory and metabolic deficits). Expert opinion: Dividing the core symptoms into easily translatable, evolutionarily conserved phenotypes is an effective way to reevaluate current depression modeling. Conceptually novel approaches based on the endophenotype paradigm, cross-species trait genetics and 'domain interplay concept', as well as using a wider spectrum of model organisms and target systems will enhance experimental modeling of depression and antidepressant drug discovery.

The integration of sociality, monoamines and stress neuroendocrinology in fish models: applications in the neurosciences

Animal-focused research has been crucial for scientific advancement, but rodents are still taking a starring role. Starting as merely supporting evidence found in rodents, the use of fish models has slowly taken a more central role and expanded its overall contributions in areas such as social sciences, evolution, physiology and recently in translational medical research. In the neurosciences, zebrafish Danio rerio have been widely adopted, contributing to our understanding of the genetic control of brain processes and the effects of pharmacological manipulations. However, discussion continues regarding the paradox of function versus structure, when fishes and mammals are compared and on the potentially evolutionarily conserved nature of behaviour across fish species. From a behavioural standpoint, we explore aversive-stress and social behaviour in selected fish models and refer to the extensive contributions of stress and monoaminergic systems. We suggest that, in spite of marked neuroanatomical differences between fishes and mammals, stress and sociality are conserved at the behavioural and molecular levels. We also suggest that stress and sociality are mediated by monoamines in predictable and non-trivial ways and that monoamines could bridge the relationship between stress and social behaviour. To reconcile the level of divergence with the level of similarity, we need neuroanatomical, pharmacological, behavioural and ecological studies conducted in the laboratory and in nature. These areas need to add to each other to enhance our understanding of fish behaviour and ultimately how this all may lead to better model systems for translational studies.

Automatic multiple zebrafish tracking based on improved HOG features

As an excellent model organism, zebrafish have been widely applied in many fields. The accurate identification and tracking of individuals are crucial for zebrafish shoaling behaviour analysis. However, multi-zebrafish tracking still faces many challenges. It is difficult to keep identified for a long time due to fish overlapping caused by the crossings. Here we proposed an improved Histogram of Oriented Gradient (HOG) algorithm to calculate the stable back texture feature map of zebrafish, then tracked multi-zebrafish in a fully automated fashion with low sample size, high tracking accuracy and wide applicability. The performance of the tracking algorithm was evaluated in 11 videos with different numbers and different sizes of zebrafish. In the Right-tailed hypothesis test of Wilcoxon, our method performed better than idTracker, with significant higher tracking accuracy. Throughout the video of 16 zebrafish, the training sample of each fish had only 200–500 image samples, one-fifth of the idTracker’s sample size. Furthermore, we applied the tracking algorithm to analyse the depression and hypoactivity behaviour of zebrafish shoaling. We achieved correct identification of depressed zebrafish among the fish shoal based on the accurate tracking results that could not be identified by a human.

Reversal of reserpine-induced depression and cognitive disorder in zebrafish by sertraline and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

BACKGROUND

With increased social pressure, individuals face a high risk of depression. Subsequently, depression affects cognitive behaviour and negatively impacts daily life. Fortunately, the Traditional Chinese Medicine Jia Wei Xiao Yao (JWXY) capsule is effective in reducing depression and improving cognitive behaviour.

METHODS

The constituents of JWXY capsule were identified by ultra-performance liquid chromatography and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry analyses. We analysed behaviours of depression-like zebrafish in the novel tank with an automatic 3D video-tracking system and conducted the colour preference test, as well detected physiological changes after sertraline and JWXY capsule treatments.

RESULTS

Both sertraline and JWXY capsule rescued the decreased locomotive behaviour and depression phenotype of zebrafish caused by reserpine. JWXY capsule especially improved the inhibited exploratory behaviour caused by reserpine. In addition, with the onset of depressive behaviour, zebrafish exhibited alterations in cognitive behaviour as indicated by colour preference changes. However, compared with sertraline, JWXY capsule was more efficaciously in rescuing this change in the colour preference pattern. Moreover, an increased level of cortisol, increased expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and decreased monoamine neurotransmitters, including serotonin (5-HT) and noradrenaline, were involved in the depressive behaviours. In addition, sertraline and JWXY capsule rescued the depressive phenotype and cognitive behaviour of zebrafish by altering the levels of endogenous cortisol and monoamine neurotransmitters.

CONCLUSIONS

JWXY capsule was more effectively than sertraline in rescuing reserpine-induced depression and cognitive disorder in zebrafish. Potentially, our study can provide new insights into the clinical treatment of depression and the mechanism of action of JWXY capsule.

The Use of Larval Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Model for Identifying New Anxiolytic Drugs from Herbal Medicine

Anxiety is a widespread psychiatric disorder. The search for a cure is still continuing since many of the synthetic drugs were inefficient in completely treating anxiety, yet caused some dangerous side effects until many of the drugs were withdrawn from the market. One promising source of new anxiolytics could be herbal medicines. The challenge is to screen plant extracts. Rodent models can be used for this purpose but are expensive. Moreover, rodent tests are costly and consume relatively large quantities of sample. For this reason, alternative animal models may be useful. Zebrafish larvae have many advantages for screening natural products. The main advantage is that they can be produced cheaply and in large numbers. Several studies have shown that the zebrafish is a good model for studying drugs that affect anxiety. This review focuses on the use of animal models, including zebrafish larvae, for studying anxiety and screening for herbal medicines that modulate anxiety. Finally, future prospects of the zebrafish larva as an alternative model in this field are also discussed.

Acrylamide acute neurotoxicity in adult zebrafish

Acute exposure to acrylamide (ACR), a type-2 alkene, may lead to a ataxia, skeletal muscles weakness and numbness of the extremities in human and laboratory animals. In the present manuscript, ACR acute neurotoxicity has been characterized in adult zebrafish, a vertebrate model increasingly used in human neuropharmacology and toxicology research. At behavioral level, ACR-treated animals exhibited “depression-like” phenotype comorbid with anxiety behavior. At transcriptional level, ACR induced down-regulation of regeneration-associated genes and up-regulation of oligodendrocytes and reactive astrocytes markers, altering also the expression of genes involved in the presynaptic vesicle cycling. ACR induced also significant changes in zebrafish brain proteome and formed adducts with selected cysteine residues of specific proteins, some of them essential for the presynaptic function. Finally, the metabolomics analysis shows a depletion in the monoamine neurotransmitters, consistent with the comorbid depression and anxiety disorder, in the brain of the exposed fish.

Using model fish to study the biological mechanisms of cooperative behaviour: A future for translational research concerning social anxiety disorders?

Human societies demand of its composing members the development of a wide array of social tools and strategies. A notable example is human outstanding ability to cooperate with others, in all its complex forms, depicting the reality of a highly demanding social framework in which humans need to be integrated as to attain physical and mental benefits. Considering the importance of social engagement, it's not entirely unexpected that most psychiatric disorders involve some disruption of normal social behaviour, ranging from an abnormal absence to a significant increase of social functioning. It is however surprising that knowledge on these social anxiety disorders still remains so limited. Here we review the literature focusing on the social and cooperative toolbox of 3 fish model species (cleaner fishes, guppies and zebrafish) which are amenable systems to test for social disorders. We build on current knowledge based on ethological information, arising from studies on cooperative behaviour in cleanerfishes and guppies, while profiting from the advantages of the intense use of zebrafish, to create novel paradigms aiming at the major socio-cognitive modules/dimensions in fish species. This focus may enable the discovery of putative conserved endpoints which are relevant for research into social disorders. We suggest that cross-species, cross-domain, functional and genetic approaches could provide a wider array of information on the neurobiological bases of social and cooperative behaviour, crucial to understanding the neural bases of social disorders and key to finding novel avenues towards treatment.

Adult zebrafish in CNS disease modeling: a tank that's half-full, not half-empty, and still filling

The zebrafish (Danio rerio) is increasingly used in a broad array of biomedical studies, from cancer research to drug screening. Zebrafish also represent an emerging model organism for studying complex brain diseases. The number of zebrafish neuroscience studies is exponentially growing, significantly outpacing those conducted with rodents or other model organisms. Yet, there is still a substantial amount of resistance in adopting zebrafish as a first-choice model system. Studies of the repertoire of zebrafish neural and behavioral functions continue to reveal new opportunities for understanding the pathobiology of various CNS deficits. Although some of these models are well established in zebrafish, including models for anxiety, depression, and addiction, others are less recognized, for example, models of autism and obsessive-compulsive states. However, mounting data indicate that a wide spectrum of CNS diseases can be modeled in adult zebrafish. Here, we summarize recent findings using zebrafish CNS assays, discuss model limitations and the existing challenges, as well as outline future directions of research in this field.

Zebrafish models in neuropsychopharmacology and CNS drug discovery

Despite the high prevalence of neuropsychiatric disorders, their aetiology and molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. The zebrafish (Danio rerio) is increasingly utilized as a powerful animal model in neuropharmacology research and in vivo drug screening. Collectively, this makes zebrafish a useful tool for drug discovery and the identification of disordered molecular pathways. Here, we discuss zebrafish models of selected human neuropsychiatric disorders and drug-induced phenotypes. As well as covering a broad range of brain disorders (from anxiety and psychoses to neurodegeneration), we also summarize recent developments in zebrafish genetics and small molecule screening, which markedly enhance the disease modelling and the discovery of novel drug targets.

Storage of neural histamine and histaminergic neurotransmission is VMAT2 dependent in the zebrafish

Monoaminergic neurotransmission is greatly dependent on the function of the vesicular monoamine transporter VMAT2, which is responsible for loading monoamines into secretory vesicles. The role of VMAT2 in histaminergic neurotransmission is poorly understood. We studied the structure and function of the histaminergic system in larval zebrafish following inhibition of VMAT2 function by reserpine. We found that reserpine treatment greatly reduced histamine immunoreactivity in neurons and an almost total disappearance of histamine-containing nerve fibers in the dorsal telencephalon and habenula, the most densely innervated targets of the hypothalamic histamine neurons. The reserpine treated larvae had an impaired histamine-dependent dark-induced flash response seen during the first second after onset of darkness, implying that function of the histaminergic network is VMAT2 dependent. Levels of histamine and other monoamines were decreased in reserpine treated animals. This study provides conclusive evidence of the relevance of VMAT2 in histaminergic neurotransmission, further implying that the storage and release mechanism of neural histamine is comparable to that of other monoamines. Our results also reveal potential new insights about the roles of monoaminergic neurotransmitters in the regulation of locomotion increase during adaptation to darkness.

Comparative analysis of biological effect of corannulene and graphene on developmental and sleep/wake profile of zebrafish larvae

Little is known about the biological effect of non-planar polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) such as corannulene on organisms. In this study, we compared the effect of corannulene (non-planar PAH) and graphene (planar PAH) on embryonic development and sleep/wake behaviors of larval zebrafish. First, the toxicity of graded doses of corannulene (1, 10, and 50μg/mL) was tested in developing zebrafish embryos. Corannulene showed minimal developmental toxicity only induced an epiboly delay. Further, a significant decrease in locomotion/increase in sleep was observed in larvae treated with the highest dose (50μg/mL) of corannulene while no significant locomotion alterations were induced by graphene. Finally, the effect of corannulene or graphene on the hypocretin (hcrt) system and sleep/wake regulators such as hcrt, hcrt G-protein coupled receptor (hcrtr), and arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase-2 (aanat2) was evaluated. Corannulene increased sleep and reduced locomotor activity and the expression of hcrt and hcrtr mRNA while graphene did not obviously disturb the sleep behavior and gene expression patterns. These results suggest that the corannulene has the potential to cause hypnosis-like behavior in larvae and provides a fundamental comparative understanding of the effects of corannulene and graphene on biology systems.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

Little is known about the biological effect of non-planar polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) such as corannulene on organisms. Here, we compare the effect of corannulene (no-planar PAH) and graphene (planar PAH) on embryonic development and sleep/wake behaviors of larval zebrafish. And we aim to investigate the effect of curvature on biological system. First, toxicity of corannulene over the range of doses (1μg/mL, 10μg/mL and 50μg/mL) was tested in developing zebrafish embryos. Corannulene has minimal developmental toxicity, only incurred epiboly delay. Subsequently, a significant decrease in locomotion/increase in sleep at the highest dose (50μg/mL) was detected in corannulene treated larvae while no significant locomotion alterations was induced by graphene. Finally, the impact of corannulene or graphene on hypocretin system and sleep/wake regulator such as hcrt, hcrtr and aanat2 was evaluated. Corannulene increased sleep, reduced locomotor activity and the expression of hcrt and hcrtr mRNA while graphene did not obviously disturb the sleep behaviors and gene expression patterns. This result may indicate the potential effect of corannulene to cause hypnosia-like behavior in larvae and provide the fundamental understanding for the biological effect of curvature on biology system.

SiO2 nanoparticles cause depression and anxiety-like behavior in adult zebrafish

Here, we report that both nano-silica (SiO₂-NPs) and reserpine can elicit depression-like behavior in adult zebrafish in a novel tank test.

Antidepressant-like activity of liposomal formulation containing nimodipine treatment in the tail suspension test, forced swim test and MAOB activity in mice

Previous studies have shown that intracellular calcium ion dysfunction may be an etiological factor in affective illness. Nimodipine (NMD) is a Ca(2+) channel blocker that has been extensively investigated for therapy of central nervous system (CNS) disorders. In this work, we have evaluated the antidepressant-like activity of nimodipine encapsulated into liposomes (NMD-Lipo) in mice through tail suspension and forced swim assays, as well as MAOB activity. During the tail suspension test, the administration of NMD-Lipo at 0.1, 1 and 10mg/kg was able to promote a reduction in the immobility time of animals greater than the positive control (imipramine). In the forced swim test, the immobility time of mice treated with NMD-Lipo was reduced. This reduction was significantly greater than that found in the animals treated with imipramine and paroxetine. This may suggest that NMD-Lipo provides more antidepressant-like activity than in positive controls. The groups that received a combination of liposomal NMD and antidepressant drugs showed lower immobility time than the groups, which were treated only with imipramine or paroxetine. The mice treated with the combination of NMD-Lipo and reserpine presented an increase in the time of immobility compared with animals treated only with NMD-Lipo. There was a significant decrease in MAOB activity in animals treated with NMD-Lipo compared with untreated animals. The results of the tail suspension test, forced swim test and MAOB activity suggested that the antidepressant activity of NMD-Lipo may be related to an increase in the cerebral monoamine concentrations.

Leveraging Large-scale Behavioral Profiling in Zebrafish to Explore Neuroactive Polypharmacology

Many psychiatric drugs modulate the nervous system through multitarget mechanisms. However, systematic identification of multitarget compounds has been difficult using traditional in vitro screening assays. New approaches to phenotypic profiling in zebrafish can help researchers identify novel compounds with complex polypharmacology. For example, large-scale behavior-based chemical screens can rapidly identify large numbers of structurally diverse and phenotype-related compounds. Once these compounds have been identified, a systems-level analysis of their structures may help to identify statistically enriched target pathways. Together, systematic behavioral profiling and multitarget predictions may help researchers identify new behavior-modifying pathways and CNS therapeutics.