Modafinil decreases anxiety-like behaviour in zebrafish

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Modafinil (2-((diphenylmethyl)sulfinyl)acetamide) is a dopamine and norepinephrine transporter inhibitor, primarily used for narcolepsy.
• Zebrafish (Danio rerio) are increasingly utilized as a model organism in pharmacological and behavioral research.
• Growing interest exists in modafinil's potential therapeutic applications beyond narcolepsy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the behavioral effects of modafinil on anxiety in zebrafish.
• To evaluate modafinil's impact on anxiety-like behaviors using the novel approach test.

Main Methods:

• Zebrafish were administered varying doses of modafinil (0, 2, 20, 200 mg/L) for 30 minutes.
• Behavioral responses were quantified in a novel approach test using motion-tracking software.
• Ethanol (1%) was used to validate the test's sensitivity to anxiety-related behaviors.

Main Results:

• Modafinil administration significantly decreased time spent in the thigmotaxis zone across all tested doses.
• Increased time spent in the transition zone was observed with modafinil treatment.
• No significant alterations were found in center zone exploration, distance traveled, meandering, or immobility.

Conclusions:

• Modafinil demonstrates anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects in zebrafish.
• The novel approach test is a validated method for assessing anxiety-like behaviors in zebrafish.
• Findings suggest potential for modafinil in treating anxiety-related disorders.