Effects of coriander components linalool and geranyl acetate on stress-related neuroendocrine and behavioral measures in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio)

Abstract

Herbal medicines and their components represent an area rich for exploration, especially in the context of managing conditions like anxiety. Previous literature has indicated that extracts of the coriander (Coriandrum sativum) plant may have significant anxiolytic potential. However, it is currently unclear how the individual phytochemical components of coriander regulate anxiety-like behavior and stress axis activity. In the current study, coriander components linalool or geranyl acetate, or control (system water) were acutely administered to adult zebrafish for 1 h; subsequently, subjects were tested for anxiety-like behavior and motor activity in the novel tank test. To explore the potential impact of coriander components on stress axis regulation, baseline levels of cortisol were also determined from whole-body extracts. It was expected that linalool and geranyl acetate would reduce anxiety-like behavior and decrease levels of whole-body cortisol compared to control. Neither of the coriander components tested had a significant impact on exploratory and freezing behavior; however, linalool did significantly depress motor activity compared to control. There was no significant effect of either component on baseline levels of cortisol. Additional studies are needed to determine the contribution of specific coriander constituents to the regulation of anxiety-like behaviors. This information would provide support for clinical investigations into herbal medicines and their phytochemical constituents in the treatment of anxiety and other stress-related conditions.