Measuring CB1 Agonist Modulation by Cannabidiol in Guppies
Location
SU-215
Start Date
1-5-2026 9:20 AM
Department
Chemistry
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is used for both topical and pharmaceutical reasons, including approved treatments for pediatric epilepsy. CBD exhibits low affinity for the CB1 receptor (Cannabinoid Receptor 1) and functions as a negative allosteric modulator. Although the affinity of CBD for the CB1 receptor is low, it influences endocannabinoid signaling pathways that in turn may alter stress response, locomotion, and social behavior. In this study, Guppy fish (Poecilia reticulata) are used as a behavioral model due to the similarity of their endocannabinoid systems to those of humans and their measurable locomotive responses. Behavioral changes were assessed using video-tracking analysis following exposure to CBD, the selective CB1 agonist arachidonyl-2′-chloroethylamide (ACEA), and combination treatments. ACEA activates CB1 receptors and modulates neurotransmitter release. ACEA should drastically alter the guppy’s swim behavior, while CBD should modify these effects through CB1 receptor modulation. Comparison of the impact of CBD and ACEA on swim behavior will be determined by analyzing changes in exploratory behavior, erratic swimming, and novel object inspection. Comparative analysis will determine if CBD enhances, alters, or diminishes the effects of the ACEA agonist in vivo.
Faculty Sponsor
Charles Abrams
Faculty Sponsor
Shannon Saszik
Measuring CB1 Agonist Modulation by Cannabidiol in Guppies
SU-215
Cannabidiol (CBD) is used for both topical and pharmaceutical reasons, including approved treatments for pediatric epilepsy. CBD exhibits low affinity for the CB1 receptor (Cannabinoid Receptor 1) and functions as a negative allosteric modulator. Although the affinity of CBD for the CB1 receptor is low, it influences endocannabinoid signaling pathways that in turn may alter stress response, locomotion, and social behavior. In this study, Guppy fish (Poecilia reticulata) are used as a behavioral model due to the similarity of their endocannabinoid systems to those of humans and their measurable locomotive responses. Behavioral changes were assessed using video-tracking analysis following exposure to CBD, the selective CB1 agonist arachidonyl-2′-chloroethylamide (ACEA), and combination treatments. ACEA activates CB1 receptors and modulates neurotransmitter release. ACEA should drastically alter the guppy’s swim behavior, while CBD should modify these effects through CB1 receptor modulation. Comparison of the impact of CBD and ACEA on swim behavior will be determined by analyzing changes in exploratory behavior, erratic swimming, and novel object inspection. Comparative analysis will determine if CBD enhances, alters, or diminishes the effects of the ACEA agonist in vivo.