Cannabidiol Treatment in a Predator-Based Animal Model of PTSD: Assessing Oxidative Stress and Memory Performance

Numerous preclinical and clinical studies indicate that CBD possesses various therapeutic properties, including antipsychotic, analgesic, anticonvulsant, antineoplastic, and antioxidant effects. Recent research has also highlighted its potential anxiolytic effects. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of CBD treatment in a PTSD induction model. To determine CBD's efficacy, behavioral tests assessing anxiety and memory were conducted. Additionally, two oxidative stress markers were measured to explore its antioxidant properties. Forty adult male rats were used for PTSD induction. The procedure involved exposure to predator odor on day 10, followed by a second exposure on day 20. A secondary stressor, consisting of daily cage partner changes, was also applied. The animals were randomized into four groups: two non-stressed and two stressed groups. CBD was administered at 10 mg/kg. Behavioral effects were evaluated using the open field (OF), elevated plus maze (EPM), novel object recognition (NOR), and Morris Water Maze (MWM) tests. Malondialdehyde and the GSH/GSSG ratio were assessed using liquid chromatography. CBD treatment did not significantly alter anxiety-like behavior in the EPM, though a trend toward increased vertical exploration was observed in the OF test. In memory-related assessments, no significant differences were found in the NOR test, while performance in the MWM indicated improved spatial memory, with CBD-treated rats spending more time in the target quadrant. In addition, malondialdehyde levels decreased in the CBD groups. Elevated cortisol levels in the stressed CBD group suggest a potential anxiolytic effect, warranting further research.