Panamanian marine cyanobacterial extracts with in vivo activity in models of anxiety and depression

In the search for compounds with central nervous system (CNS) effects, the oceans are emerging as a largely unexplored source. A number of interesting neurotoxins and ion channel modulators have been discovered from a variety of marine sources. The focus of this research was to screen and identify compounds which could modulate CNS diseases through activity at G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs). As part of the Panama ICBG and in collaboration with the NIMH psychoactive drug screening program (PDSP) we have screened cyanobacterial fractions against a panel of ˜48 GPCRs and transporters involved in CNS disorders. From these initial screening efforts, a number of selective and potent hits are currently being explored to isolate and determine the active components. 2 fractions in particular have been explored because of their ability to bind to the 5-HT_2c and 5-HT₇ receptors respectively. These fractions and some purified materials have been screened in vivo using behavioral models of depression and anxiety in C57Bl/6J mice via intra-cerebroventricular (ICV) injection. Both fractions have shown statistically significant alteration in behavior from single ICV injections. Results and progress to date will be presented.