Zebrafish – Heart

Zebrafish (Danio rerio) is one of many different model organisms used in research labs to improve our understanding of a variety of human diseases. Although it may seem strange to study human diseases using a fish, the two are more similar than you may expect. 70% of human genes can be found in zebrafish, and many of the critical pathways required for proper development are conserved (Howe et al, 2013). These similarities allow for scientists to investigate the genetic causes of human diseases in a rapid and specific fashion which in turn allow for the generation of better treatments.

The use of zebrafish as a model organism began in the 1960s. In this time many different diseases have been modeled in zebrafish including cancers, retinal degeneration, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and many more. It stands out as an organism for studying developmental disorders due to the clear and easy to manipulate embryo. Since zebrafish lay their eggs outside of the body the embryos can be easily observed during the beginning stages of life without interrupting the natural progression. This allows for noninvasive imaging and analysis of many phenotypes, including cardiovascular defects.

Another critical feature of studying zebrafish is studying their regenerative properties. Zebrafish have the unique ability to regenerate organs. Studying these mechanisms may give us a way to apply these regenerative properties to humans. With cardiovascular disease being one of the leading causes of death worldwide, the ability to heal wounds to the heart in the same way zebrafish would be invaluable.

Here we are focusing on the use of zebrafish to study cardiovascular defects, with emphasis on congenital heart defects. To get started click on any tabs or click here.