Honors Theses and Projects

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A collection of theses and projects submitted to the Centennial Honors College in various disciplines.

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Browsing Honors Theses and Projects by Author "Bloom, Nathaniel"

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    PTSD-like Behaviors in Zebrafish Models: Cannabidiol’s Interaction with Fundamental Biological Components of PTSD
    (Western Illinois University, 2025-05-07) Bloom, Nathaniel
    This study aims to examine the behavioral effects of cannabidiol (CBD) on fear and anxiety related behaviors utilizing zebrafish (Danio rerio). Recent human studies have shown CBD to be an effective anxiolytic agent, alongside various other beneficial qualities. CBD has also displayed promising results when especially given to human subjects with PTSD. While the results of these human studies are optimistic, examining the biological underpinnings of CBD on fear and anxiety related behaviors utilizing a viable animal model remains poorly understood. Zebrafish serve as a viable model due to their robust behavioral phenotypes, established cannabinoid system, and high neural homogeneity to humans. The study utilizes larval zebrafish to undergo a Chronic Unpredictable Stress (CUS) schedule followed by CBD administration to examine CBD’s anxiolytic effects via light/dark preference testing. A total of 90 zebrafish will be assigned to six experiment conditions depending on stress exposure (no-stress, stress) and treatment type (CBD, vehicle-control, and control). Behavioral outcomes will be evaluated over a seven-day light/dark preference testing period, with evaluations focusing on time spent in the lighted chamber, movement frequency, and thigmotaxis behaviors. The light/dark test utilizes a tank containing a light and dark chamber with a digital camera monitoring the light chamber to capture behavioral outcomes. By examining CBD’s role in modulating biological fear responses, this research aims to guide the growth of future literature into exploring CBD as a potential treatment alternative for PTSD and anxiety-related disorders.