Zebrafish: A model system for the investigation of novel treatments for retinal disease

Abstract

Over the latter part of the twentieth century the zebrafish, Danio rerio, has emerged as a preeminent model system for studying developmental biology, physiology, toxicology, and disease. The key driver has been the genetic tractability of the zebrafish, enabling numerous mutant strains to become available for analysis. The large eyes and the optical transparency of zebrafish embryo make it especially suited for investigating diseases of the retina. Moreover, visual development is rapid and closely resembles that of human retina including an elaborate color visual system. With the ability to carry out high-throughput screens in vivo, this vertebrate model will likely emerge as a leader for the identification of novel drugs for the treatment of retinal disease. © 2012 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.