Zebrafish in Scientific Research

Although the zebrafish is best known for its use in home aquariums, scientists from around the world have found that the Danio rerio species makes for a good specimen in research studies. In scientific research, this species has displayed a number of desirable and unique attributes that make it an excellent example for genetic investigation. The University of Oregon was one of the first educational organizations to make this connection and start zebrafish breeding programs to develop a large number of specimens that could be used for their studies. After their sequence of the genetic code of the zebra fish, many other colleges and research units followed suit, using the information in a number of different functions.

One of the most desired aspects of the fish is the rapid zebrafish development that takes place over the small period of a few days. In less than three days, the embryonic development of the zebrafish moves from its beginning as an egg to a larvae form. This process occurs away from the mother, meaning that it can be studied closer than with other fish species. There are also strange similarities between the zebra fish and humans. Both species have reactions to certain toxins and their diurnal sleep patterns are quite close. With this connection, scientists can use their findings for further human research.

On the other hand, most experts of zebrafish development point to the regeneration abilitiy of the fish as the main focal point of scientific research. The Danio rerio species has automatic regeneration of the brain, heart, and other organs. Current research has not provided an answer as to why this regeneration happens, but some scientists are optimistic that learning about this aspect of the zebrafish may lead to a better understanding of heart cells in humans and methods of repairing hearts that have been damaged.