How the heart starts beating
Heart cells in developing zebrafish transition from silence to beating in a simultaneous, coordinated manner. Each cell can beat independently, and the heartbeat starts from different locations in different zebrafish.
Zebrafish
Articles tagged with Zebrafish
CHOP researchers develop novel method using MRI to study diseases modeled in zebrafish
Researchers from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia developed a noninvasive MRI method for adult zebrafish, capturing high-resolution images of organs. The study found significant brain growth in zebrafish with SURF1 gene deficiency and smaller heart and spinal cord volumes.
Ballet of the brain: Unlocking the choreography of movement
Researchers used a new analytical approach to understand how the brain controls movement and eye stability in zebrafish. By analyzing neuronal activity, they identified two main features that correspond to specific types of movements, including eye rotation and body positioning.
Nobel-winning bodily ‘pressure sensors’ filmed for first time at Imperial
Imperial researchers have imaged Piezo1 channels in human cells and organs, revealing their role in regulating blood pressure, respiration, bladder control, and the immune system. This breakthrough could lead to a better understanding of their role in fundamental physiological processes and potentially new drug targets for diseases.
NIH zebrafish research included in US Postal Service’s “Life Magnified” stamps
The NIH zebrafish image was taken to study lymphatic vessel development in the brain and has led to a groundbreaking discovery that fish have lymphatic vessels inside their skull. This finding could expedite research into treatments for diseases affecting the human brain, such as cancer and Alzheimer's.
Gadusol: Nature's sunscreen
A new study reveals that fish produce a chemical sunscreen called Gadusol to protect their eggs from UV radiation, which is essential for their survival. The compound, encoded in the DNA of female fish, prevents damage and mutations caused by UVR exposure.
Genetic mutations blunt immune defences in leukaemia-linked rare bone marrow disorder
Patients with GATA2 deficiency have impaired ability to produce immune cells, leading to increased risk of recurrent infections and blood cancers. The study's findings suggest that a zebrafish model may help develop new treatments to slow or reverse the disease.
In a first, researchers image adaptive immune systems at work in fish
A new study from the University of Wisconsin-Madison tracks immune cell movement in zebrafish, documenting a strikingly organized network of T cells. The findings shed light on how adaptive immune systems function in non-mammals and present exciting questions to pursue.
How to repair a damaged heart: Key mechanism behind heart regeneration in zebrafish revealed
Researchers have discovered a key mechanism behind zebrafish heart regeneration, which has been found to be evolutionary conserved in human and mouse heart muscle cells. The study suggests that manipulating this mechanism could lead to the development of new therapies for cardiovascular diseases.
Automated detection of embryonic developmental defects
Researchers developed EmbryoNet, an automated image analysis software that uses AI to detect and classify developmental defects in fish embryos. The software outperforms human experts in terms of speed and accuracy, making it a valuable tool for investigating the mechanisms of drug action and studying embryonic development.
Time-restricted fasting could cause fertility problems
A new study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B found that time-restricted fasting affects reproduction differently in male and female zebrafish. After returning to normal food consumption levels, females increased offspring production at the cost of reduced egg quality, while male sperm quality also decreased.
Gigapixel 3D microscope captures life in unprecedented detail
Researchers have developed a high-speed, 3D gigapixel microscope that stitches together dozens of cameras to capture life in unprecedented detail. The device enables the recording of differences in pitch and depth, allowing scientists to study zebrafish behavior and developmental biology without harming the animals.
Muscle health depends on lipid synthesis
A study by IMBA researchers links muscle degeneration to a deficiency in the enzyme PCYT2, essential for lipid synthesis. PCYT2 depletion affects mitochondrial function and muscle energetics, highlighting the importance of lipid balance in muscle health.
How to assemble a complete jaw
A USC-led team of scientists identified the key gene Nr5a2, essential for opening up genome regions that enable neural crest cells to form tendons and salivary glands. Zebrafish and mice lacking this gene exhibited skeletal and tendon defects, as well as failed salivary gland development.
How nanoplastics can influence metabolism
Researchers at Leipzig University discovered that nanoplastics from PET particles accumulate in organs and cause liver function impairment, oxidative stress, and behavioral abnormalities in zebrafish embryos. The study provides insight into the toxicity pathways induced by PET nanoplastics.
Mapping unknown territory
Scientists at Max-Planck-Gesellschaft created an interactive atlas of gene expression in the zebrafish brain, revealing hundreds of genes with single-cell resolution. The new map integrates seamlessly with existing data, providing new insights into neural structure and function.
The harmful effects of immune cells in hypertension
Researchers found that immune cells play a key role in hypertension, weakening blood vessel walls and damaging the blood-brain barrier. Inhibiting inflammatory messengers may be a new therapeutic target for treating hypertension.
CHOP researchers develop first effective preclinical models for most common genetic cause of Leigh Syndrome
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia developed two new zebrafish models for studying SURF1 mitochondrial disease, a major cause of Leigh syndrome. The team identified two drugs, cysteamine bitartrate and N-acetylcysteine, that showed potential in preventing neurological decompensation in patients with Leigh syndrome.
Discovery in zebrafish may lead to a better understanding of a wide range of mental health disorders related to stress, anxiety
Researchers at Virginia Tech have identified a critical molecule in the development of brain's stress response, which may lead to better understanding of stress-related mental health disorders. Deficiencies in DSCAML1 disrupt brain development and increase cortisol levels, leading to imbalanced stress responses.
Rare genetic disease may protect Ashkenazi Jews against TB
Research by University of Cambridge scientists reveals that a rare genetic disorder, Gaucher disease, provides protection against TB due to an unusual fatty chemical that acts as a microbicide. The study suggests that Ashkenazi Jews, who are more susceptible to Gaucher disease, may be less likely to contract TB infection.
Go fish: why MSK researchers use zebrafish to study a cancer-linked inflammation pathway
Researchers used zebrafish to study an inflammatory lipid called 5-oxoETE, which plays a role in airway inflammation and neutrophil response. The study identified the 5-oxoETE/OXER1 pathway as an important immune pathway that may prevent some cancers.
Scientists make progress in decoding genetics of insomnia
Researchers have identified a new genetic pathway involved in regulating sleep from fruit flies to humans. The Pig-Q gene is associated with sleep regulation in both humans and animals, providing a novel insight into the genetics of insomnia.
Telling left from right: cilia as cellular force sensors during embryogenesis
Research reveals that cilia function as creators and sensors of biomechanical forces in the developing embryo, shaping the left-right body plan. Cilia sense flow forces and translate them into calcium signals controlling left-right development.
Lost fish find their way, thanks to their ‘ancient brain’
Scientists discovered a new multiregional hindbrain circuit that enables zebrafish to compute their location and correct course. The study used whole-brain imaging to reveal the circuits involved in this process, which may apply to other vertebrates.
Scientists identify neural circuit that enables self-localization in zebrafish
Researchers discovered a neural system for self-localization in larval zebrafish using whole-brain functional imaging. The multiregional hindbrain circuit integrates visual information to form a memory of past displacements, correcting for accumulated displacements over many seconds.
Study identifies a signaling cascade behind retina regeneration in zebrafish
Researchers have identified a Vegf-Notch signaling system that enables Muller glial cells to regenerate retinal neurons in zebrafish. This discovery may help understand why the human retina does not regenerate and could inform treatments for blindness.
Researchers recreate periodic structure of spine development without biological clocks
A team from Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center discovered how segmentation clock genes instruct the tempo of spine formation, opening doors to new basic science research. By inducing segment formation in zebrafish without biological clocks, the researchers aimed to understand the origins of birth defects in humans.
Gene therapy for heart attacks in mice just got more precise
Scientists at Duke University have made a breakthrough in controlling gene expression in response to injury, using a segment of fish DNA called TREE. The method successfully targeted gene activity to specific regions and time windows, showing promise for regenerating damaged tissues in mammals.
Nanomaterial influences gut microbiome and immune system interactions
Researchers found that graphene oxide exposure altered the gut microbiome and triggered a type 2 immune response in zebrafish, which could inform strategies to mitigate adverse effects of nanomaterials.
Life in action: researchers capture 3D cellular dynamics across whole organism
A new mesoscopic oblique plane microscopy method captures up to three times more resolvable image points than other similar systems, enabling whole-body volumetric recordings of neuronal activity and blood flow dynamics. The technique allows for single-cell tracking within the complete 3D circulation system for the first time.
DNA sequence enhances understanding origins of jaws
Researchers at Uppsala University have discovered a crucial DNA sequence in jawed vertebrates that plays a major role in shaping the joint surfaces during embryonic development. This finding has significant implications for understanding the evolution of vertebrate jaws, which is believed to have occurred around 423 million years ago.
Nerve cell discovery may lead to better treatment for diseases of the nervous system
Scientists at King's College London and the University of Bath have made a groundbreaking discovery about a molecule that plays a crucial role in nerve cell development. The study found that this molecule, known as SNRNP70, is not only present in the nucleus but also in the cytoplasm of nerve cells, where it shapes messenger RNA strand...
Gene plays important role in embryonic development
Researchers identified SHROOM4 gene's role in human embryonic development and its link to congenital malformations. The study found that altering the gene can cause various organ system malformations.
Rare human intestinal disorder is due to reduction in protein synthesis
Researchers discovered a link between reduced protein synthesis and Feingold syndrome type 1, a rare genetic disorder. The study suggests that a nutritional supplement may help reverse this decrease, potentially alleviating intestinal symptoms in patients with the condition.
Gut bacteria are essential for development of social behavior in fish
Germ-free zebrafish larvae have altered neural connections due to reduced microglia pruning by immune cells. Reintroducing normal microbiota restores normal development and social behavior. Microorganisms stimulate microglial activity, promoting neural connection remodeling.
Researchers find a gut-brain connection for social development
Zebrafish studies reveal a key role of gut microbes in shaping brain circuits responsible for social behavior. The findings suggest a possible translation to mice and humans, offering new insights into neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder.
Reprogramming of immune cells shown to fight off melanoma
A new method of modifying our immune system has been demonstrated in a study published in Advanced Science, which could help treat skin cancer.
‘Love hormone’ revealed to have heart healing properties
Researchers discover that oxytocin stimulates stem cells to migrate and develop into cardiomyocytes in zebrafish and human cell cultures. This could lead to the regeneration of damaged hearts after a heart attack. The study found that oxytocin also activates EpiPCs, which can replenish lost cardiomyocytes.
What goes on in the brain when it gets too hot?
Researchers at NTNU studied zebrafish brain activity while increasing temperature, finding that brains completely stopped responding to stimuli but then 'lit up' when temperatures reached extreme levels. Adding oxygen improved thermal tolerance and recovery rate in fish, suggesting a key role for glial cells in regulating oxygen supply.
Fish to help in search for MS drugs
Researchers replaced zebrafish GPR17 receptor gene with human version to study myelin repair in multiple sclerosis. Testing substances in modified fish larvae may lead to quicker and more successful human trials.
Stowers scientists use zebrafish to understand the connection between the immune system and regeneration
Stowers scientists investigate macrophage activation states in zebrafish sensory organ, discovering three distinct anti-inflammatory pathways that may inform human regenerative immunotherapies. The study provides valuable insights into the timing and genetic programs of macrophages, a type of white blood cell, in repair and regeneration.
Zebradanio helped study the mechanics of brain injuries and their treatment
Scientists developed a laser-based zebrafish model to simulate traumatic brain injuries and identify molecular targets for treatment. The model revealed the importance of microglia activation and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in brain recovery.
Genomics study identifies unique set of proteins that restores hearing in zebrafish
Researchers at NIH/National Human Genome Research Institute discovered a network of proteins necessary for restoring hearing in zebrafish through cell regeneration. The study identifies two families of transcription factors that work together to activate hair cell regeneration, offering potential insights into treating human hearing loss.
A mutated eye offers a glimpse of a key protein for preventing cancer
A mutated zebrafish eye provides a glimpse into the role of banp in preventing cell death and regulating the cell cycle. The study found that banp promotes the expression of 31 genes involved in DNA repair, tumor suppression, and cell duplication.
See-through zebrafish, new imaging method put blood stem cells in high-resolution spotlight
Researchers developed a new technique to track single blood stem cells in live organisms and describe their ultrastructure using electron microscopy. This allows for better understanding of cell-cell interactions and potential therapeutics for blood diseases and cancers.
How the zebrafish repairs a broken heart
Researchers at Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine found that zebrafish can regenerate heart tissue after injury due to activated fibroblasts. The fibroblasts, which temporarily enter an activated state, read a series of genes responsible for forming proteins, enabling the regeneration process.
Scientists identify DNA ‘hotspots’ that tell zebrafish to change sex in warmer waters
Researchers found that high temperatures induce epigenetic changes in zebrafish embryos, leading to sex reversal and altering the sex ratio. This study provides insights into the mechanisms behind climate change's impact on species with genotype-by-environment sex determination.
Lymphatics help ‘seed’ early brain cells in zebrafish
Researchers have discovered that lymphatics, which remove waste from the body, also help seed early brain cells in zebrafish. The study found that precursor cells expressing a specific gene migrate to the brain via lymphatic vessels, highlighting the importance of these vessels in microglia development and brain function.
A brain network for social attraction
Scientists at the Max Planck Institute have discovered a specialized neural circuit in zebrafish that enables recognition of conspecifics. This pathway, which runs from the retina to the thalamus, triggers shoaling behavior and regulates social approach and affiliation.
Tiny gene fragments revealed as crucial new players in retinal development and vision
Researchers identified Srrm3 as a master regulator gene for photoreceptor cells in the retina, which is critical for visual function. The study found that misregulation of alternative splicing and microexons can lead to devastating health impacts, including vision loss.
Largest genetic atlas for zebrafish ‘breakthrough’ for biomedical research
Researchers have created the largest genetic atlas for zebrafish, which provides a comprehensive understanding of gene expression and developmental dynamics. The atlas, developed by the DANIO-CODE consortium, offers a broad picture of candidate DNA regions for transgenic breeding and genetic research into development and diseases.
How did vertebrates first evolve jaws?
Scientists studied embryonic development in fish and cartilaginous fish, revealing that the jaw shares a common developmental origin with the gill. The findings support the theory that the jaw evolved by modification of an ancestral gill, which was previously considered controversial.
Study describes new way of generating insulin-producing cells
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet describe a new way of generating insulin-producing cells using a molecule that stimulates protein synthesis and boosts insulin production. The study shows promise for treating type 1 and 2 diabetes, potentially increasing the number of insulin-producing pancreatic β cells.
A cushy lab life has its evolutionary costs — when it comes to fish, that is
Researchers found that lab zebrafish have lost physiological plasticity, a characteristic that allows organisms to adjust to different environments, over time. This loss affects their ability to perform consistently across a wide range of temperatures, highlighting the costs of domestication.
Fish and humans: A new approach to Bloom syndrome research
Researchers created a zebrafish model to study Bloom syndrome, uncovering similarities and species-specific novelties. The study found reduced fertility and shorter lifespan in mutant zebrafish, which are entirely male.
New sleep molecule discovered: “It shows just how complex the machinery of sleep is”
Researchers have discovered a new sleep molecule, microRNA-137 (miR-137), that regulates hypocretin levels for normal sleep. The study found that miR-137 is associated with hypocretin regulation and sleep disorders such as narcolepsy and insomnia.
Whole-brain preclinical study illuminates how epileptic seizures originate
Researchers tracked brain cell activity in zebrafish during seizures, finding that seizures arise from an excess of excitatory over inhibitory neuron activity in confined regions. The findings suggest a nuanced role for both excitation and inhibition in seizure origins.
Microplastics in the Cauvery River may be harming fish
A new study published in Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety reveals that microplastics in the Cauvery River may be causing growth defects in fish, including skeletal deformities and DNA damage. The study found that pollutants from slow-flowing and stagnant sites caused significant harm to zebrafish embryos.
Study shows critical protein may play a role in origin of mesothelioma
Researchers at CU Anschutz Medical Campus discovered a reactivated protein, Hand2, in certain cases of mesothelioma, which may lead to new treatments. The study aims to investigate the cause and effect of this reactivation.
New research shows certain exercises can help with muscular dystrophy
Researchers at the University of Maine used zebrafish to test the effectiveness of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) on muscle strength and structure. The study found that only one NMES regimen, endurance neuromuscular stimulation (eNMES), improved muscle health when combined with an antioxidant and a specific receptor.