Methcathinone exposure alters host behavior and gut microbiota community in zebrafish

Introduction: Drug addiction can lead to gut microbiota dysbiosis, which further alters host metabolism and regulates host behavior through the brain-gut axis. Methcathinone (MCAT) is a novel addictive drug, and its effects on the gut microbiota and brain-gut axis are still unclear. This study aimed to determine the alteration of host behavior and gut microbiota community in zebrafish under methcathinone exposure. Methods: In this study, MCAT was administeredto zebrafish, and their behavioral characteristics were evaluated. Changes in the gut microbiota and metabolic pathways in zebrafish were also analyzed. Results: We found that after the administration of MCAT, the zebrafish was anxious and aggressive, with hyperlocomotion, and the abundance and diversity of the gut microbiota significantly decreased. Additionally, the composition of the gut microbiota shifted. These alterations in the composition of the gut microbiota further led to changes in their metabolic pathways, some of which might be related to the behavioral response induced by MCAT. Conclusion: Our findings provide insights into alteration of behavior and gut microbiota composition of zebrafish induced by MCAT which may further contribute to its neurobehavioral responses.