Evidence for the Induction of Anxiolytic-Like Behavior and Memory Preservation by (+)-Dihydrocarvone Through Studies...

Anxiety and seizures are prevalent conditions worldwide, with conventional treatment relying on benzodiazepines. However, the long-term use of these drugs is associated with adverse effects and the development of dependence, driving the search for safer therapeutic alternatives. (+)-Dihydrocarvone is a monoterpene ketone with documented biological activities, including antifungal, antiparasitic, and anti-inflammatory effects. This study utilized adult zebrafish (*Danio rerio*), an animal model widely used in pharmacological and behavioral research due to its neurobiological similarity to mammals. Toxicity tests, assessments of anxiolytic activity and memory effects, and *in silico* studies were conducted. The results demonstrated anxiolytic-like effects and memory preservation associated with (+)-dihydrocarvone, with pharmacological data suggesting the possible involvement of GABAergic and serotonergic pathways. Furthermore, molecular interaction analyses revealed affinity for the GABA∼A receptor, indicating a potential pharmacological effect.