Effects of cannabidiol administration into the ventral medial prefrontal cortex of rats submitted to an animal model of depression

Abstract

Cannabidiol is the main non-psychotomimetic constituent of Cannabis sativa that induces antipsychotic, anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects. The mechanism of action of cannabidiol remains poorly understood and may involve the activation of 5-HT1A receptors or the facilitation of endocannabinoid neurotransmission. The neural pathways involved in the neurobiology of depression are complex and include several structures in the central nervous system. Studies have shown that the medial prefrontal cortex plays an important role in the expression of several emotional states by having connections with thalamus, amygdala and other limbic structures. The CPFMv is divided in infra-limbic and pre-limbic, different cytoarchitectonic structures, that may modulate different responses to stress. Therefore, it is believed that the CPFMv is an important target of action of CBD. However, little is known about the effects of cannabidiol into the CPFMv, particularly related to depression. Therefore, the aim of this study is to test the hypothesis of participation of CPFMv , differentiated into IL and PL, in the antidepressant-like activity of cannabidiol and the possible involvement of 5HT1A receptors in this response. Therefore, we will investigate the effects of cannabidiol administration into the CPFMv, IL and PL, in the presence and absence of 5HT1A antagonist, in rats submitted to the forced swim test, an animal model of depression. (AU)