Advantages of the zebrafish (Danio rerio) model in solving contemporary problems of neurotoxicity, teratotoxicity and genotoxicity of xenobiotics

Abstract

The zebrafish (Danio rerio), a small fish belonging to the Cyprinidae family, is one of the most popular animal models used in laboratory studies, including toxicology. It has many beneficial features, such as transparent body structure, easy and economical breeding, a large number of offspring and a short life cycle. In addition, the genome of the zebrafish shows a high homology to the human genome, which makes this fish an attractive research model. The article points to the contemporary challenges of toxicology in terms of neurotoxicity, teratotoxicity and genotoxicity, which can be analysed based on the results of studies carried out on the zebrafish model. The dynamic implementation of new factors, such as nanoparticles, e-cigarettes, new generations of cosmetics or a wide range of chemical enhancers into human living and working environments, can have serious consequences for the health of the general population and the ecosystem as a whole. The work presents the latest research results regarding, among others, neurotoxic effects of ethanol, teratotoxic and neurotoxic effects of e-cigarettes, teratotoxic, neurotoxic and genotoxic effects of selected nanoparticles and microplastics assessed in experiments using the zebrafish model. The characteristics of the micronucleus test and the comet test are also presented as the most frequently chosen methods for assessing the genotoxic effect of xenobiotics in studies on the Danio rerio model.The results of the studies underline the need for further analysis and monitoring of the effects of these substances, in particular harmful effects on living organisms, and for remedial measures to protect the environment. As we have tried to demonstrate in this article, one of the very convenient possibilities in this respect is the use of the striped zebrafish model. A particularly valuable premise in assessing the genotoxic effects of xenobiotics in this case is the above-mentioned high homology of the Danio rerio and human genomes.

Keywords

• zebrafish
• toxicity
• exposure risk assessment
• ethyl alcohol
• environmental toxins
• carcinogenic activity