Anti-stress effects of the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist liraglutide in zebrafish

ABSTRACT Stress-related disorders are extremely harmful and cause significant impacts on the individual and society. Despite the limited evidence regarding glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) and mental disorders, a few clinical and preclinical studies suggest that modulating this system could improve symptoms of stress-related disorders. This study aimed to investigate the effects of liraglutide, a GLP-1R agonist, on neurobehavioral phenotypes and brain oxidative status in adult zebrafish. Acute liraglutide promoted anxiolytic-like effects in the light/dark test, while chronic treatment blocked the impact of unpredictable chronic stress on behavioral and physiological parameters. Taken together, our study demonstrates that liraglutide is active on zebrafish brain and may counteract some of the effects induced by stress. More studies are warranted to further elucidate the potential of GLP-1R agonists for the management of brain disorders.