![]() Several ‘reverse genetic’ methods are also in use to identify and characterise zebrafish genes of interest either by overexpression or by knocking it out. Possible genetic manipulations in zebrafish: ‘forward genetic’ tools exist to create random mutations in the zebrafish genome. Very recently in an interesting study, scientists have upgraded the web tool for analysing zebrafish genes using gene ontology as the entire zebrafish genome has been sequenced 14. The zebrafish possess a vertebrate neural structural organisation and their genome has several gene orthologs similar to those mutated in human Familial Alzheimer’s disease (FAD). The embryos are quite malleable to genetic manipulation by morpholino antisense oligonucleotide, mRNAs, transgenes and genome editing techniques like CRISPR-Cas9, TALENS 11, 12, 13. It is very easy to introduce transient manipulation of gene activities and their subsequent examination in a normal cellular environment 9, 10 (Fig. Owing to the small size of the larvae, high-throughput screening of neuroactive compounds can be easily performed. This transparency of the embryo also helps in genetic manipulations. One of the most unique advantages of the zebrafish is the unrivalled optical clarity of the embryos, allowing visualisation of individual genes (fluorescently labelled or dyed) throughout the developmental process using non-invasive imaging techniques 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8. Moreover, they have large clutch size varying between 200 and 300 per fish, which ensures a ready supply of animals for research work. They possess external fertilisation and their development pattern facilitates the observation and experimental manipulation of the embryos. Their short generation times of 3–5 months enhances the rate of experimental progress 2. Thus, zebrafish can be grown in a cost-effective manner. Owing to the simplicity of their natural habitat, it is much easier to maintain them in a laboratory than to simulate the conditions essential for mammals. Such studies have been possible as the zebrafish possesses several distinct advantages over other vertebrate models (Fig. The zebrafish ( Danio rerio) is a prominent vertebrate model system for comprehensive analysis of the unique functions of genes along with their signalling pathways during development and neurodegeneration 1. This fish is becoming an increasingly successful model to understand AD with further scope for investigation in neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration, which promises exciting research opportunities in the future. Thus, the zebrafish model can be pivotal in bridging the gap from the bench to the bedside. Suitability to high-throughput screening and similarity with humans makes zebrafish an excellent model for screening neurospecific compounds. Three-dimensional imaging in zebrafish is a rapidly evolving technique, which allows the visualisation of the whole organism for an elaborate in vivo functional and neurophysiological analysis in disease condition. Zebrafish is adeptly suitable for Ca 2+ imaging, which provides a better understanding of neuronal activity and axonal dystrophy in a non-invasive manner. ![]() Here, we further elaborate on the use of recent real-time imaging techniques to obtain vital insights into the neurodegeneration that occurs in AD. Their relatively simple nervous system and the optical transparency of the embryos permit real-time neurological imaging. Interestingly, zebrafish models have been used successfully to simulate the pathology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) as well as Tauopathy. ![]() Physiological, emotional and social behavioural pattern similarities between them have also been well established. The neuroanatomic and neurochemical pathways of zebrafish brain exhibit a profound resemblance with the human brain. ![]() It is highly validated as a powerful vertebrate model for investigating human neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we appraise the high degree of neurological and behavioural resemblance of zebrafish with humans. Zebrafish ( Danio rerio) is emerging as an increasingly successful model for translational research on human neurological disorders. ![]()
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