Determinación de la LC50 del alucinógeno 25C-NBOMe en el modelo animal pez Cebra (Danio Rerio)

Abstract

The hallucinogen, 25C-NBOMe, is a new psychoactive substance (NPS) and a potent serotonergic 5-HT2A-receptor agonist coupled to G proteins. 5-HT2A-receptor has several signaling functions widely distributed in the Central Nervous System and peripheral tissues. In spite of multiple deaths world wide attributed to 25C-NBOMe uses, there are few investigations on this substance. Thus, the aim of this work was to determine the Median Lethal Concentration (LC50) of 25C-NBOMe using two animal models: Brine Shrimp and zebrafish (Danio rerio) toxicity tests. Furthermore, we evaluated behavioral and morphological effects of 25C-NBOMe in these models when exposed to different sub-lethal concentrations. The Brine Shrimp toxicity test showed a LC50 20.14 μg/ml, and the zebrafish toxicity test showed a LC50 10.76 μg/ml. At different concentrations, it was found that the substance 25C-NBOMe induces effects on the swimming and motility in Brine Shrimp, as well as effects on the behavior and morphology of zebrafish. In zebrafish, were evident alterations in motility, incomplete/abnormal pigmentation, growth and development delay, pericardial edema formation, decrease in blood circulation/heart rate, alterations in ocular development, curvature of the body (lordosis/kyphosis), and yolk deformation. This work is the first advance in the study of the substance 25C-NBOMe becoming a global contribution to the knowledge on the substance effects on behavior, morphology, and development. Additionally, it will contribute to support further studies aimed to determine potential mutagenic or teratogenic effects in consumers of 25C-NBOMe.