preprints.org > biology and life sciences > neuroscience and neurology > doi: 10.20944/preprints202310.1133.v1

Preprint Article Version 1 Preserved in Portico This version is not peer-reviewed

Version 1 : Received: 14 October 2023 / Approved: 16 October 2023 / Online: 18 October 2023 (08:12:36 CEST)

(1) Background: Some evidence suggests that cannabidiol (CBD) has potential to help alleviate HIV symptoms due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Here we examined acute CBD effects on various behaviors and the endocannabinoid system in HIV Tat transgenic mice. (2) Methods: Tat transgenic mice (female/male) were injected with CBD (3,10,30 mg/kg) and assessed for antinociception, activity, coordination, anxiety, and recognition memory. Brains were taken to quantify endocannabinoids and related lipids. Additionally, CBD and metabolite 7-hydroxy-CBD were quantified in the plasma and cortex. (3) Results: Tat decreased striatal-related nociception and locomotion, with some sex-dependent effects on coordination. CBD had no effect on nociception and coordination, but increased locomotor activity. For anxiety, differential CBD effects were noted for sex, with decreasing anxiety-like behavior in males only. In the striatum and spinal cord, male sex was associated with lower 2-arachidonoylglycerol and with elevated concentrations of its proinflammatory metabolite arachidonic acid. CBD metabolism was altered by sex and Tat. (4) Conclusion: Findings indicate that acute CBD effects are not altered by HIV Tat, and CBD has minimal effects on behavior and the endocannabinoid system. Interestingly, sex-dependent alterations were noted for endocannabinoids and related lipids, which may be of relevance in view of potential CBD-based treatment options for people living with HIV.

cannabidiol; neuroHIV; Tat transgenic mice; antinociception; anxiety; 2-arachidonoylglycerol; arachidonic acid

Biology and Life Sciences, Neuroscience and Neurology

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