1
|
Sadamitsu K, Velilla F, Shinya M, Kashima M, Imai Y, Kawasaki T, Watai K, Hosaka M, Hirata H, Sakai N. Establishment of a zebrafish inbred strain, M-AB, capable of regular breeding and genetic manipulation. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7455. [PMID: 38548817 PMCID: PMC10978973 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57699-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Inbred strains of organisms are genetically highly uniform and thus useful for life science research. We have previously reported the ongoing generation of the zebrafish IM strain from the India (IND) strain through full sib-pair mating for 16 generations. However, the IM fish laid a small number of offspring and had a short lifespan, implying the need for discreet care in breeding. Here, we report the subsequent establishment of IM strain as well as the generation of a new inbred zebrafish strain, Mishima-AB (M-AB). M-AB was derived from the *AB strain by full sib-pair mating for over 20 generations, which fulfills the general criterion for the establishment of an inbred strain. In contrast to the IM case, maintenance of the M-AB strain by sib-pair mating required almost no special handling. Genome sequencing of IM individuals from the 47th generation and M-AB individuals from the 27th generation revealed that SNP-based genomic heterogeneity across whole-genome nucleotides was 0.008% and 0.011%, respectively. These percentages were much lower than those of the parental IND (0.197%) and *AB (0.086%) strains. These results indicate that the genomes of these inbred strains were highly homogenous. We also demonstrated the successful microinjection of antisense morpholinos, CRISPR/Cas9, and foreign genes into M-AB embryos at the 1-cell stage. Overall, we report the establishment of a zebrafish inbred strain, M-AB, which is capable of regular breeding and genetic manipulation. This strain will be useful for the analysis of genetically susceptible phenotypes such as behaviors, microbiome features and drug susceptibility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenichiro Sadamitsu
- College of Science and Engineering, Aoyama Gakuin University, Sagamihara, 252-5258, Japan
| | - Fabien Velilla
- Model Fish Genetics Laboratory, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, 411-8540, Japan
| | - Minori Shinya
- Department of Biology, Keio University, Yokohama, 223-8521, Japan
| | - Makoto Kashima
- College of Science and Engineering, Aoyama Gakuin University, Sagamihara, 252-5258, Japan
- Faculty of Science, Toho University, Funabashi, 274-8510, Japan
| | - Yukiko Imai
- Model Fish Genetics Laboratory, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, 411-8540, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Kawasaki
- Model Fish Genetics Laboratory, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, 411-8540, Japan
| | - Kenta Watai
- College of Science and Engineering, Aoyama Gakuin University, Sagamihara, 252-5258, Japan
| | - Miho Hosaka
- College of Science and Engineering, Aoyama Gakuin University, Sagamihara, 252-5258, Japan
| | - Hiromi Hirata
- College of Science and Engineering, Aoyama Gakuin University, Sagamihara, 252-5258, Japan.
| | - Noriyoshi Sakai
- Model Fish Genetics Laboratory, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, 411-8540, Japan.
- Department of Genetics, SOKENDAI, Mishima, 411-8540, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Morizumi H, Sugimoto N, Ueno T. Individual identification of inbred medaka based on characteristic melanophore spot patterns on the head. Sci Rep 2023; 13:659. [PMID: 36635463 PMCID: PMC9837133 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-27386-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
With disease progression, individual differences appear, even in an animal disease model with genetic homogeneity. Therefore, non-invasive long term observation and individual identification is desirable for late-onset diseases. To this end, the natural markings used in ecological studies are preferable to the external invasive markings used in animal husbandry and fisheries management. Here, we propose using the distribution pattern of melanophore spots on the head of an inbred strain of medaka, a small fish model organism with monotonous pigmentation, as biometric identifier. Long term and variation analyses show different patterns whose characteristics can be attributed to individual animals. These findings were also valid in a non-inbred medaka strain and will help individual follow-up of late-onset disease medaka models for the elucidation of the pathogenesis and drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hajime Morizumi
- Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Naozo Sugimoto
- grid.258799.80000 0004 0372 2033Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Ueno
- Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gerlai R. Zebrafish (Danio rerio): A newcomer with great promise in behavioral neuroscience. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 144:104978. [PMID: 36442644 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Behavioral neuroscience is an interdisciplinary field aimed at understanding the neurobiology of behavior. Numerous investigators turn to animals to model and understand the mechanisms underlying vertebrate brain function including human brain disorders, species that share evolutionary history with us. The zebrafish is a relatively new study species for such purposes. However, as this review attempts to demonstrate, it will likely have a good future in behavioral neuroscience. It is a simple vertebrate that is small and cheap to keep and study in the laboratory. Yet, it is similar enough to our own species, thus, we are able to use it for both translational as well as basic research. In this invited review, I will discuss its advantages and some of its disadvantages, the reasons and counterarguments why it should or should not be employed in research. I will focus on its utility in behavioral neuroscience, and will also provide a brief historical account of the evolution between zebrafish research and the science represented by the International Behavioral Neuroscience Society.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Gerlai
- Department of Psychology, Rm CCT4004, University of Toronto Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road, Mississauga, Ontario L5L 1C6, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Freudenblum J, Meyer D, Kimmel RA. Mitochondrial network expansion and dynamic redistribution during islet morphogenesis in zebrafish larvae. FEBS Lett 2023; 597:262-275. [PMID: 36217213 PMCID: PMC10092693 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondria, organelles critical for energy production, modify their shape and location in response to developmental state and metabolic demands. Mitochondria are altered in diabetes, but the mechanistic basis is poorly defined, due to difficulties in assessing mitochondria within an intact organism. Here, we use in vivo imaging in transparent zebrafish larvae to demonstrate filamentous, interconnected mitochondrial networks within islet cells. Mitochondrial movements highly resemble what has been reported for human islet cells in vitro, showing conservation in behaviour across species and cellular context. During islet development, mitochondrial content increases with emergence of cell motility, and mitochondria disperse within fine protrusions. Overall, this work presents quantitative analysis of mitochondria within their native environment and provides insights into mitochondrial behaviour during organogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Dirk Meyer
- Institute of Molecular Biology/CMBIUniversity of InnsbruckAustria
| | - Robin A. Kimmel
- Institute of Molecular Biology/CMBIUniversity of InnsbruckAustria
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Adatto I, Lawrence C, Krug L, Zon LI. The effects of intensive feeding on reproductive performance in laboratory zebrafish (Danio rerio). PLoS One 2022; 17:e0278302. [PMID: 36445925 PMCID: PMC9707780 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The zebrafish (Danio rerio) is among the most widely used model animals in scientific research. Historically, these fish have been reared in the laboratory using simple methods developed by home aquarists. For laboratories with high demand for breeding and generation turn-over, however, there has been a shift away from this approach towards one that leverages techniques, tools, and feeds from commercial aquaculture to help accelerate growth rates and decrease generation times. While these advances have improved efficiency, the effects of feeding zebrafish diets that are designed to grow disparately related cold-water fish species to market size quickly are not well-understood. To explore the impacts that intensive feeding protocols may have on this species, groups of zebrafish larvae from two different wild-type lines were stocked into treatment tanks at a standard density of 10 fish per liter and were administered either a "high" or "low" food diet for a maximum of 63 days. During their growth phase, the "high" food diet group received at least 8x more rotifers and at least 2x more Artemia than the "low" food diet group. Growth, survival, and reproductive performance (fecundity and viability) were measured in these fish and in their offspring. We found that fish that were fed more grew more rapidly and were able to reproduce earlier than fish that were fed less, but they were also more likely to produce higher proportions of non-viable embryos.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isaac Adatto
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States of America
- Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Children’s Hospital Boston and Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Lauren Krug
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States of America
- Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Children’s Hospital Boston and Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Leonard I. Zon
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States of America
- Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Children’s Hospital Boston and Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Imai Y, Saito K, Takemoto K, Velilla F, Kawasaki T, Ishiguro KI, Sakai N. Sycp1 Is Not Required for Subtelomeric DNA Double-Strand Breaks but Is Required for Homologous Alignment in Zebrafish Spermatocytes. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:664377. [PMID: 33842489 PMCID: PMC8033029 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.664377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
In meiotic prophase I, homologous chromosomes are bound together by the synaptonemal complex, in which two axial elements are connected by transverse filaments and central element proteins. In human and zebrafish spermatocytes, homologous recombination and assembly of the synaptonemal complex initiate predominantly near telomeres. In mice, synapsis is not required for meiotic double-strand breaks (DSBs) and homolog alignment but is required for DSB repair; however, the interplay of these meiotic events in the context of peritelomeric bias remains unclear. In this study, we identified a premature stop mutation in the zebrafish gene encoding the transverse filament protein Sycp1. In sycp1 mutant zebrafish spermatocytes, axial elements were formed and paired at chromosome ends between homologs during early to mid-zygonema. However, they did not synapse, and their associations were mostly lost in late zygotene- or pachytene-like stages. In sycp1 mutant spermatocytes, γH2AX signals were observed, and Dmc1/Rad51 and RPA signals appeared predominantly near telomeres, resembling wild-type phenotypes. We observed persistent localization of Hormad1 along the axis in sycp1 mutant spermatocytes, while the majority of Iho1 signals appeared and disappeared with kinetics similar to those in wild-type spermatocytes. Notably, persistent Iho1 foci were observed in spo11 mutant spermatocytes, suggesting that Iho1 dissociation from axes occurs in a DSB-dependent manner. Our results demonstrated that Sycp1 is not required for peritelomeric DSB formation but is necessary for complete pairing of homologs in zebrafish meiosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yukiko Imai
- Department of Gene Function and Phenomics, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan
| | - Kenji Saito
- Department of Gene Function and Phenomics, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan
| | - Kazumasa Takemoto
- Department of Gene Function and Phenomics, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan
| | - Fabien Velilla
- Department of Gene Function and Phenomics, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Kawasaki
- Department of Gene Function and Phenomics, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan.,Department of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Mishima, Japan
| | - Kei-Ichiro Ishiguro
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Noriyoshi Sakai
- Department of Gene Function and Phenomics, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan.,Department of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Mishima, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
A fish is not a mouse: understanding differences in background genetics is critical for reproducibility. Lab Anim (NY) 2020; 50:19-25. [PMID: 33268901 DOI: 10.1038/s41684-020-00683-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Poorly controlled background genetics in animal models contributes to the lack of reproducibility that is increasingly recognized in biomedical research. The laboratory zebrafish, Danio rerio, has been an important model organism for decades in many research areas, yet inbred strains and traditionally managed outbred stocks are not available for this species. Sometimes incorrectly referred to as 'inbred strains' or 'strains', zebrafish wild-type lines possess background genetics that are often not well characterized, and breeding practices for these lines have not been consistent over time or among institutions. In this Perspective, we trace key milestones in the history of one of the most widely used genetic backgrounds, the AB line, to illustrate the dynamic complexity within an example background that is largely invisible when reading the scientific literature. Failure to adequately control for genetic background compromises the validity of experimental outcomes. We therefore propose that authors provide as much specific detail about the origin and genetic makeup of zebrafish lines as is reasonable and possible, and that the terms used to describe background genetics be applied in a way that is consistent with other fish and mammalian model organisms. We strongly encourage the adoption of genetic monitoring for the characterization of existing zebrafish lines, to help detect genetic contamination in breeding colonies and to verify the level of genetic heterogeneity in breeding colonies over time. Careful attention to background genetics will improve transparency and reproducibility, therefore improving the utility of the zebrafish as a model organism.
Collapse
|
8
|
Adams LG, Gordon MS, Buth DG, Hutchings EM. A Comparison of Isogenic Homozygous Clone and Wildtype Zebrafish ( Danio rerio): Survival and Developmental Responses to Low pH Conditions. Zebrafish 2020; 17:196-210. [PMID: 32315581 DOI: 10.1089/zeb.2019.1780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The value of bioassays as analytical methods for assessing the potency of particular stressors on live animal models depends on the precision of their results, which are greatly influenced by the choice of test subjects. The genetic makeup of experimental subjects varies, and, as such, so will their responses to the test environment. Genetic diversity of test populations may contribute to statistical variability; therefore, the use of genetically similar subjects may enhance the utility of bioassays. This study addresses the efficacy of using isogenic homozygous zebrafish (Danio rerio) as subjects for bioassays. Stress responses (acidic conditions) were compared during early development for gynogenetically produced isogenic homozygous line of zebrafish (C32) and wildtype (WT) zebrafish. Experiments evaluated early life stage milestones after exposure to low pH in water of a different electrolyte composition. Because the isogenic homozygous clonal (IHC) fish possessed far less genetic variability than the WT fish tested, it was predicted that the IHC fish would exhibit less variability in their response to stress. Although we found no significant differences in the variability between the responses of the IHC and WT fish, pH and water hardness level had a differential effect on the two groups. Simple strain differences may be the probable cause of the response differences to environmental stress. Factors that may affect stress response, such as heterogeneity, co-adapted gene complexes, and domestication, are discussed. Our findings and review of recent zebrafish literature stress the need for researchers to carefully consider breeding histories and trait characteristics for each potential test subject to maximize the sensitivity of the assay.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa G Adams
- Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, Georgia, USA
| | - Malcolm S Gordon
- Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Donald G Buth
- Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Erica M Hutchings
- Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, Georgia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Venta PJ, Nguyen AK, Senut MC, Poulos WG, Prukudom S, Cibelli JB. A 13-plex of tetra- and penta-STRs to identify zebrafish. Sci Rep 2020; 10:3851. [PMID: 32123258 PMCID: PMC7052278 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-60842-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The zebrafish species Danio rerio has become one of the major vertebrate model organisms used in biomedical research. However, there are aspects of the model that need to be improved. One of these is the ability to identify individual fish and fish lines by DNA profiling. Although many dinucleotide short tandem repeat (diSTR) markers are available for this and similar purposes, they have certain disadvantages such as an excessive polymerase slippage ("stutter") that causes difficulties in automated genotyping and cross-laboratory comparisons. Here we report on the development of a 13-plex of tetranucleotide and pentanucleotide STRs (tetraSTRs and pentaSTRs, respectively) that have low stutter. The system uses an inexpensive universal primer labelling system, which can easily be converted to a direct labeling system if desired. This 13-plex was examined in three zebrafish lines (NHGRI-1, kca33Tg, and kca66Tg, originally obtained from ZIRC). The average observed heterozygosity (Ho) and expected heterozygosity (He) in these highly inbred lines were 0.291 and 0.359, respectively, which is very similar to what has been found with diSTRs. The probability of identity (PI) for all fish tested was 2.1 × 10-5 and the PI for siblings (PIsib) was 6.4 × 10-3, as calculated by the Genalex package. Ninety percent of the fish tested were correctly identified with their respective strains. It is also demonstrated that this panel can be used to confirm doubled-haploid cell lines. This multiplex should find multiple uses for improving the accuracy and reproducibility of studies using the zebrafish model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick J Venta
- Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48823, USA. .,Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48823, USA.
| | - Anthony K Nguyen
- Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48823, USA
| | - Marie-Claude Senut
- Biomilab LLC, Lansing, MI, 48910, USA.,Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48823, USA
| | - William G Poulos
- Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48823, USA
| | - Sukumal Prukudom
- Center for Advanced Studies for Agriculture and Food, Kasetsart University Institute for Advanced Studies, Kasetsart University (CASAF, NRU-KU), Bangkok, 10900, Thailand
| | - Jose B Cibelli
- Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48823, USA. .,Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48823, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Sycp2 is essential for synaptonemal complex assembly, early meiotic recombination and homologous pairing in zebrafish spermatocytes. PLoS Genet 2020; 16:e1008640. [PMID: 32092049 PMCID: PMC7062287 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1008640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2019] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Meiotic recombination is essential for faithful segregation of homologous chromosomes during gametogenesis. The progression of recombination is associated with dynamic changes in meiotic chromatin structures. However, whether Sycp2, a key structural component of meiotic chromatin, is required for the initiation of meiotic recombination is still unclear in vertebrates. Here, we describe that Sycp2 is required for assembly of the synaptonemal complex and early meiotic events in zebrafish spermatocytes. Our genetic screening by N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea mutagenesis revealed that ietsugu (its), a mutant zebrafish line with an aberrant splice site in the sycp2 gene, showed a defect during meiotic prophase I. The its mutation appeared to be a hypomorphic mutation compared to sycp2 knockout mutations generated by TALEN mutagenesis. Taking advantage of these sycp2 hypomorphic and knockout mutant lines, we demonstrated that Sycp2 is required for the assembly of the synaptonemal complex that is initiated in the vicinity of telomeres in wild-type zebrafish spermatocytes. Accordingly, homologous pairing, the foci of the meiotic recombinases Dmc1/Rad51 and RPA, and γH2AX signals were largely diminished in sycp2 knockout spermatocytes. Taken together, our data indicate that Sycp2 plays a critical role in not only the assembly of the synaptonemal complex, but also early meiotic recombination and homologous pairing, in vertebrates.
Collapse
|
11
|
Sucharov J, Ray K, Brooks EP, Nichols JT. Selective breeding modifies mef2ca mutant incomplete penetrance by tuning the opposing Notch pathway. PLoS Genet 2019; 15:e1008507. [PMID: 31790396 PMCID: PMC6907857 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1008507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Deleterious genetic mutations allow developmental biologists to understand how genes control development. However, not all loss of function genetic mutants develop phenotypic changes. Many deleterious mutations only produce a phenotype in a subset of mutant individuals, a phenomenon known as incomplete penetrance. Incomplete penetrance can confound analyses of gene function and our understanding of this widespread phenomenon remains inadequate. To better understand what controls penetrance, we capitalized on the zebrafish mef2ca mutant which produces craniofacial phenotypes with variable penetrance. Starting with a characterized mef2ca loss of function mutant allele, we used classical selective breeding methods to generate zebrafish strains in which mutant-associated phenotypes consistently appear with low or high penetrance. Strikingly, our selective breeding for low penetrance converted the mef2ca mutant allele behavior from homozygous lethal to homozygous viable. Meanwhile, selective breeding for high penetrance converted the mef2ca mutant allele from fully recessive to partially dominant. Comparing the selectively-bred low- and high-penetrance strains revealed that the strains initially respond similarly to the mutation, but then gene expression differences between strains emerge during development. Thus, altered temporal genetic circuitry can manifest through selective pressure to modify mutant penetrance. Specifically, we demonstrate differences in Notch signaling between strains, and further show that experimental manipulation of the Notch pathway phenocopies penetrance changes occurring through selective breeding. This study provides evidence that penetrance is inherited as a liability-threshold trait. Our finding that vertebrate animals can overcome a deleterious mutation by tuning genetic circuitry complements other reported mechanisms of overcoming deleterious mutations such as transcriptional adaptation of compensatory genes, alternative mRNA splicing, and maternal deposition of wild-type transcripts, which are not observed in our system. The selective breeding approach and the resultant genetic circuitry change we uncovered advances and expands our current understanding of genetic and developmental resilience. Some deleterious gene mutations only affect a subset of genetically mutant animals. This widespread phenomenon, known as mutant incomplete penetrance, complicates discovery of causative gene mutations in both model organisms and human disease. This study utilized the zebrafish mef2ca transcription factor mutant that produces craniofacial skeleton defects with incomplete penetrance. Selectively breeding zebrafish families for low- or high-penetrance mutants for many generations created different zebrafish strains with consistently low or high penetrance. Comparing these strains allowed us to gain insight into the mechanisms that control penetrance. Specifically, genes under the control of mef2ca are initially similarly expressed between the two strains, but differences between strains emerge during development. We found that genetic manipulation of these downstream genes mimics the effects of our selective breeding. Thus, selective breeding for penetrance can change the genetic circuitry downstream of the mutated gene. We propose that small differences in gene circuitry between individuals is one mechanism underlying susceptibility or resilience to genetic mutations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Sucharov
- Department of Craniofacial Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Kuval Ray
- Department of Craniofacial Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Elliott P. Brooks
- Department of Craniofacial Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - James T. Nichols
- Department of Craniofacial Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Delomas TA, Dabrowski K. Effects of homozygosity on sex determination in zebrafish Danio rerio. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2018; 93:1178-1187. [PMID: 30318612 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.13836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Gynogenetic zebrafish Danio rerio were obtained by activating D. rerio oocytes with UV irradiated common carp Cyprinus carpio sperm and then applying one of four different shocks [two (early) meiotic and two (late) mitotic shocks]. Gynogens produced by three of the shocks survived to maturity. All adult gynogens (n = 52) except one were found to be male. There was no difference in growth rate between the biparental controls and gynogens produced through the most effective shock, thereby eliminating growth rate as a possible cause of the skewed sex ratio. Gynogen males had reduced fertility compared to biparental controls, with about half of gynogens being unable to reproduce through natural spawning (all controls reproduced successfully). Gynogen males that did reproduce gave lower fertilization rates compared with controls. This demonstrates the negative effects of increased homozygosity on male reproductive function. Families sired by meiotic gynogen males were more likely to be female biased (33% of families) compared with families sired by biparental control males (11%). In addition to confirming the polygenic nature of sex determination in D. rerio, these observations suggest that recessive or over-dominant male-determining alleles are present in domesticated D. rerio populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A Delomas
- School of Environment and Natural Resources, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Konrad Dabrowski
- School of Environment and Natural Resources, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Bhattacharya M, Ghosh S, Malick RC, Patra BC, Das BK. Therapeutic applications of zebrafish (Danio rerio) miRNAs linked with human diseases: A prospective review. Gene 2018; 679:202-211. [PMID: 30201335 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2018.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Revised: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are the class of small, non-coding RNAs that are produced from precursor transcripts by subsequent processing steps mediated by members of the RNaseIII family, Dicer and Drosha protein within cell. The importance of zebrafish miRNAs in regulation of normal cellular development and support to various kinds of metabolism process. Although the zebrafish model provides a fundamental platform for the study of developmental biology but recent work with zebrafish model has expanded its appliance to a broad range of experimental studies relevant to different kind of human diseases. Presently, the zebrafish model is used for the study of cardiovascular disease, schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder in eyes, psoriasis, spinal cord injury, cancer and diabetes that showing in some selected miRNAs are regulate these diseases in molecular levels. Here, a superior drive performed to depict the fundamental utilization of the zebrafish miRNAs that targeted to several clinical diseases connected to human. This review aims to provide a summary of understanding of the cellular mechanism which is responsible for selected diseases and suggests some therapeutic application for inhibition of miRNA functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manojit Bhattacharya
- ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata 700 120, West Bengal, India
| | - Soumendu Ghosh
- Centre For Aquaculture Research, Extension & Livelihood, Department of Aquaculture Management & Technology, Vidyasagar University, Midnapore 721102, West Bengal, India
| | - Ramesh Chandra Malick
- ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata 700 120, West Bengal, India
| | - Bidhan Chandra Patra
- Centre For Aquaculture Research, Extension & Livelihood, Department of Aquaculture Management & Technology, Vidyasagar University, Midnapore 721102, West Bengal, India
| | - Basanta Kumar Das
- ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata 700 120, West Bengal, India.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Jagiełło K, Dobosz S, Zalewski T, Polonis M, Ocalewicz K. Developmental competence of eggs produced by rainbow trout Doubled Haploids (DHs) and generation of the clonal lines. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 53:1176-1183. [PMID: 29956409 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Revised: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Poor quality eggs produced by the fully homozygous doubled haploids (DHs) may impair generation of clonal lines in fish species. In the present research, gynogenetic development of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) was induced in eggs originated from the DH females. Eggs were activated with the UV-irradiated grayling (Thymallus thymallus) spermatozoa and subjected to the high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) shock to provide diploid clonal individuals. Only two of four DH females produced eggs that were successfully activated by the irradiated spermatozoa and subsequently developed into the gynogenetic embryos. Survival rates of rainbow trout from the clonal lines equalled 21.5% and 19.8% during embryogenesis and decreased after hatching to 18.6% and 14.9%, respectively. Some of the dead rainbow trout clones collected between hatching and swim-up stage were emaciated and exhibited spinal deformities including scoliosis. Provided results confirmed limited developmental competences of eggs produced by rainbow trout DH females. Clonal rainbow trout developing in such eggs exhibited reduced survival and increased frequency of the body abnormalities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Jagiełło
- Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Department of Marine Biology and Ecology, Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Stefan Dobosz
- Department of Salmonid Research, Inland Fisheries Institute in Olsztyn, Żukowo, Poland
| | - Tomasz Zalewski
- Department of Salmonid Research, Inland Fisheries Institute in Olsztyn, Żukowo, Poland
| | - Marcin Polonis
- Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Department of Marine Biology and Ecology, Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Konrad Ocalewicz
- Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Department of Marine Biology and Ecology, Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Gdynia, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abstract
The current body of work on rearing larval/juvenile zebrafish is based on (1) utilization of freshwater and (2) diurnal light/dark cycle, (3) provision of live feed at modest density, and (4) culture in high visibility environment. We challenged these rearing approaches by maintaining zebrafish under constant light for 46-48 days (days postfertilization [dpf]), while securing continuous feeding in high turbidity and saline (1.8-2.1 parts per thousand) environment for the experiment's duration, allowing 24 h feeding/growth of fish from first exogenous feeding to maturation. There was no evidence of negative effects on zebrafish larvae behavior, growth, survival, and life cycle duration at constant illumination when food was continuously available. Zebrafish were stocked at high initial density (100 larvae/L) in a static system and fed high densities of rotifers (Brachionus plicatilis) (200-400/mL) from 6 to 12 dpf. Fish density was then reduced by 50% and two diet treatments, live rotifers or brine shrimp (Artemia) nauplii (10/mL), followed. Fish were reared on these two diets until first maturation. Performance of adult zebrafish fed live rotifer followed by Artemia nauplii diet was the highest recorded in the literature after 42 dpf, 250 ± 29 (males) and 430 ± 5 mg (females). Use of these rearing conditions, during the entire life cycle, until reproduction, resulted in the shortest ever recorded generation time (from egg to egg) of 43-45 dpf and fertilization rate (1 dpf) of 80.3%-94%.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Konrad Dabrowski
- School of Environment and Natural Resources, College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio
| | - Mackenzie Miller
- School of Environment and Natural Resources, College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Abstract
Genetically homogeneous populations such as inbred strains are valuable experimental tools in various fields of biomedical analyses. In many animals, inbred strains are established by consecutive sib-pair mating for a minimum of 20 generations. As the generation proceeds, fitness of the population reduces usually. Therefore, in order to establish inbred strains, the important point is the selection of pairs in good condition at each generation. Here, I describe the procedure and tips for generating inbred strains in zebrafish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minori Shinya
- Department of Biology, Keio University, 4-1-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 223-8521, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Brooks EP, Nichols JT. Shifting Zebrafish Lethal Skeletal Mutant Penetrance by Progeny Testing. J Vis Exp 2017. [PMID: 28892034 DOI: 10.3791/56200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Zebrafish mutant phenotypes are often incompletely penetrant, only manifesting in some mutants. Interesting phenotypes that inconsistently appear can be difficult to study, and can lead to confounding results. The protocol described here is a straightforward breeding paradigm to increase and decrease penetrance in lethal zebrafish skeletal mutants. Because lethal mutants cannot be selectively bred directly, the classic selective breeding strategy of progeny testing is employed. This method also includes protocols for Kompetitive Allele Specific PCR (KASP) genotyping zebrafish and staining larval zebrafish cartilage and bone. Applying the husbandry strategy described here can increase the penetrance of an interesting skeletal phenotype enabling more reproducible results in downstream applications. In addition, decreasing the mutant penetrance through this selective breeding strategy can reveal the developmental processes that most crucially require the function of the mutated gene. While the skeleton is specifically considered here, we propose that this methodology will be useful for all zebrafish mutant lines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elliott P Brooks
- Department of Craniofacial Biology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
| | - James T Nichols
- Department of Craniofacial Biology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus;
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
A Novel Zebrafish ret Heterozygous Model of Hirschsprung Disease Identifies a Functional Role for mapk10 as a Modifier of Enteric Nervous System Phenotype Severity. PLoS Genet 2016; 12:e1006439. [PMID: 27902697 PMCID: PMC5130169 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1006439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) is characterized by absence of enteric neurons from the distal colon and severe intestinal dysmotility. To understand the pathophysiology and genetics of HSCR we developed a unique zebrafish model that allows combined genetic, developmental and in vivo physiological studies. We show that ret mutant zebrafish exhibit cellular, physiological and genetic features of HSCR, including absence of intestinal neurons, reduced peristalsis, and varying phenotype expressivity in the heterozygous state. We perform live imaging experiments using a UAS-GAL4 binary genetic system to drive fluorescent protein expression in ENS progenitors. We demonstrate that ENS progenitors migrate at reduced speed in ret heterozygous embryos, without changes in proliferation or survival, establishing this as a principal pathogenic mechanism for distal aganglionosis. We show, using live imaging of actual intestinal movements, that intestinal motility is severely compromised in ret mutants, and partially impaired in ret heterozygous larvae, and establish a clear correlation between neuron position and organised intestinal motility. We exploited the partially penetrant ret heterozygous phenotype as a sensitised background to test the influence of a candidate modifier gene. We generated mapk10 loss-of-function mutants, which show reduced numbers of enteric neurons. Significantly, we show that introduction of mapk10 mutations into ret heterozygotes enhanced the ENS deficit, supporting MAPK10 as a HSCR susceptibility locus. Our studies demonstrate that ret heterozygous zebrafish is a sensitized model, with many significant advantages over existing murine models, to explore the pathophysiology and complex genetics of HSCR. Hirschsprung Disease (HSCR) is a common congenital intestinal motility disorder diagnosed at birth by absence of enteric neurons in the distal gut, leading to intestinal obstruction that requires life-saving surgery. HSCR exhibits complex inheritance patterns and its genetic basis is not fully understood. Although well studied by human geneticists, and modelled using mouse, significant questions remain about the cellular and genetic causes of the disease and the relationship between neuron loss and defective intestinal motility. Here we use accessible, transparent zebrafish to address these outstanding questions. We establish that ret mutant zebrafish display key features of HSCR, including absence of intestinal neurons, reduced gut motility and varying phenotype expressivity. Using live imaging, possible in zebrafish but not in mouse, we demonstrate that decreased migration speed of enteric neuron progenitors colonising the gut is the principal defect leading to neuron deficits. By direct examination of gut motility in zebrafish larvae, we establish a clear correlation between neurons and motility patterns. Finally, we show that mapk10 mutations worsen the enteric neuron deficit of ret mutants, indicating that mutations in MAPK10 may increase susceptibility to HSCR. We show many benefits of modelling human genetic diseases in zebrafish and advance our understanding of HSCR.
Collapse
|
19
|
Hou J, Wang G, Zhang X, Wang Y, Sun Z, Si F, Jiang X, Liu H. Production and verification of a 2 nd generation clonal group of Japanese flounder, Paralichthys olivaceus. Sci Rep 2016; 6:35776. [PMID: 27767055 PMCID: PMC5073307 DOI: 10.1038/srep35776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Accepted: 10/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Clonal fishes are useful tools in biology and aquaculture studies due to their isogenicity. In Japanese flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus), a group of homozygous clones was created by inducing meiogynogenesis in eggs from a mitogynogenetic homozygous diploid. As the clones reached sexual maturity, meiogynogenesis was again induced in order to produce a 2nd generation clonal group of Japanese flounder. After 3 months, there were 611 healthy, surviving individuals. Twenty-four microsatellite markers, that covered all the linkage groups of Japanese flounder, were used to identify the homozygosity of the 2nd generation clones; no heterozygous locus was detected. This indicates that the production of a 2nd generation clonal group of Japanese flounder was successful. Restriction-site DNA associated sequencing at the genomic level also confirmed the homozygosity and clonality of the 2nd generation clonal group. Furthermore, these 2nd generation clones had a small coefficient of variation for body shape indices at 210 days of age and showed a high degree of similarity in body characteristics among individuals. The successful production of 2nd generation clones has laid the foundation for the large-scale production of clonal Japanese flounder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jilun Hou
- Beidaihe Central Experiment Station, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qinhuangdao 066100, China
| | - Guixing Wang
- Beidaihe Central Experiment Station, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qinhuangdao 066100, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhang
- Beidaihe Central Experiment Station, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qinhuangdao 066100, China
| | - Yufen Wang
- Beidaihe Central Experiment Station, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qinhuangdao 066100, China
| | - Zhaohui Sun
- Beidaihe Central Experiment Station, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qinhuangdao 066100, China
| | - Fei Si
- Beidaihe Central Experiment Station, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qinhuangdao 066100, China
| | - Xiufeng Jiang
- Beidaihe Central Experiment Station, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qinhuangdao 066100, China
| | - Haijin Liu
- Beidaihe Central Experiment Station, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qinhuangdao 066100, China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Robertson AL, Avagyan S, Gansner JM, Zon LI. Understanding the regulation of vertebrate hematopoiesis and blood disorders - big lessons from a small fish. FEBS Lett 2016; 590:4016-4033. [PMID: 27616157 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.12415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Revised: 08/22/2016] [Accepted: 09/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) give rise to all differentiated blood cells. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate self-renewal and lineage specification of HSCs is key for developing treatments for many human diseases. Zebrafish have emerged as an excellent model for studying vertebrate hematopoiesis. This review will highlight the unique strengths of zebrafish and important findings that have emerged from studies of blood development and disorders using this system. We discuss recent advances in our understanding of hematopoiesis, including the origin of HSCs, molecular control of their development, and key signaling pathways involved in their regulation. We highlight significant findings from zebrafish models of blood disorders and discuss their application for investigating stem cell dysfunction in disease and for the development of new therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne L Robertson
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, MA, USA
| | - Serine Avagyan
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, MA, USA
| | - John M Gansner
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Leonard I Zon
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
|
22
|
Kawasaki T, Sakai N. Allogeneic Transplantation of Testicular Hyperplasia in rag1 Mutant Zebrafish. Bio Protoc 2016. [DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.1992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
|
23
|
Kawasaki T, Siegfried KR, Sakai N. Differentiation of zebrafish spermatogonial stem cells to functional sperm in culture. Development 2015; 143:566-74. [PMID: 26718005 DOI: 10.1242/dev.129643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2015] [Accepted: 12/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Molecular dissection and chemical screening on a complex process such as spermatogenesis could be facilitated by cell culture approaches that allow easy access for experimental manipulation and live imaging of specific molecules; however, technical limitations have thus far prevented the complete reconstruction of spermatogenic events in cell culture. Here, we describe the production of functional sperm from self-renewing spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) in cell culture conditions, using zebrafish testicular hyperplasia cells that accumulate early stage spermatogonia. By serially transplanting hyperplasias into immunodeficient rag1 mutant zebrafish, we succeeded in long-term maintenance and efficient production of starting material for SSC culture. Through improvements of culture conditions, we achieved efficient propagation of SSCs derived from the hyperplasia. When SSCs that underwent the SSC-propagating step for 1 month were transferred onto Sertoli feeder cells, they differentiated into functional sperm that gave rise to offspring. Oxygen at the concentration of air proved to be detrimental for sperm differentiation from SSCs, but not for propagation of SSCs. These results indicate that the whole spermatogenic process can be represented in cell culture in zebrafish, facilitating analyses of the molecular mechanisms of spermatogenesis in vertebrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Toshihiro Kawasaki
- Genetic Strains Research Center, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima 411-8540, Japan
| | - Kellee R Siegfried
- University of Massachusetts Boston, Biology Department, Boston, MA 02125, USA
| | - Noriyoshi Sakai
- Genetic Strains Research Center, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima 411-8540, Japan Department of Genetics, School of Life Science, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Mishima 411-8540, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Dirscherl H, McConnell SC, Yoder JA, de Jong JLO. The MHC class I genes of zebrafish. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2014; 46:11-23. [PMID: 24631581 PMCID: PMC4031684 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2014.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2013] [Revised: 02/26/2014] [Accepted: 02/28/2014] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules play a central role in the immune response and in the recognition of non-self. Found in all jawed vertebrate species, including zebrafish and other teleosts, MHC genes are considered the most polymorphic of all genes. In this review we focus on the multi-faceted diversity of zebrafish MHC class I genes, which are classified into three sequence lineages: U, Z, and L. We examine the polygenic, polymorphic, and haplotypic diversity of the zebrafish MHC class I genes, discussing known and postulated functional differences between the different class I lineages. In addition, we provide the first comprehensive nomenclature for the L lineage genes in zebrafish, encompassing at least 15 genes, and characterize their sequence properties. Finally, we discuss how recent findings have shed new light on the remarkably diverse MHC loci of this species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hayley Dirscherl
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; The Joint Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program, University of North Carolina-North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Sean C McConnell
- Section of Hematology-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant, Department of Pediatrics, The University of Chicago, KCBD 5120, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Yoder
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; Center for Comparative Medicine and Translational Research, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA.
| | - Jill L O de Jong
- Section of Hematology-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant, Department of Pediatrics, The University of Chicago, KCBD 5120, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Wada H, Iwasaki M, Kawakami K. Development of the lateral line canal system through a bone remodeling process in zebrafish. Dev Biol 2014; 392:1-14. [PMID: 24836859 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2014.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2014] [Revised: 04/25/2014] [Accepted: 05/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The lateral line system of teleost fish is composed of mechanosensory receptors (neuromasts), comprising superficial receptors and others embedded in canals running under the skin. Canal diameter and size of the canal neuromasts are correlated with increasing body size, thus providing a very simple system to investigate mechanisms underlying the coordination between organ growth and body size. Here, we examine the development of the trunk lateral line canal system in zebrafish. We demonstrated that trunk canals originate from scales through a bone remodeling process, which we suggest is essential for the normal growth of canals and canal neuromasts. Moreover, we found that lateral line cells are required for the formation of canals, suggesting the existence of mutual interactions between the sensory system and surrounding connective tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hironori Wada
- Division of Molecular and Developmental Biology, National Institute of Genetics, 1111 Yata, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan.
| | - Miki Iwasaki
- Division of Molecular and Developmental Biology, National Institute of Genetics, 1111 Yata, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan
| | - Koichi Kawakami
- Division of Molecular and Developmental Biology, National Institute of Genetics, 1111 Yata, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan; Department of Genetics, Graduate University for Advanced Studies (SOKENDAI), 1111 Yata, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Seth A, Stemple DL, Barroso I. The emerging use of zebrafish to model metabolic disease. Dis Model Mech 2014; 6:1080-8. [PMID: 24046387 PMCID: PMC3759328 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.011346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The zebrafish research community is celebrating! The zebrafish genome has recently been sequenced, the Zebrafish Mutation Project (launched by the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute) has published the results of its first large-scale ethylnitrosourea (ENU) mutagenesis screen, and a host of new techniques, such as the genome editing technologies TALEN and CRISPR-Cas, are enabling specific mutations to be created in model organisms and investigated in vivo. The zebrafish truly seems to be coming of age. These powerful resources invoke the question of whether zebrafish can be increasingly used to model human disease, particularly common, chronic diseases of metabolism such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. In recent years, there has been considerable success, mainly from genomic approaches, in identifying genetic variants that are associated with these conditions in humans; however, mechanistic insights into the role of implicated disease loci are lacking. In this Review, we highlight some of the advantages and disadvantages of zebrafish to address the organism’s utility as a model system for human metabolic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asha Seth
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, CB10 1SA, UK
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Zebrafish model for allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation not requiring preconditioning. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2013; 110:4327-32. [PMID: 23431192 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1219847110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent work on vertebrate hematopoiesis has uncovered the presence of deeply rooted similarities between fish and mammals at molecular and cellular levels. Although small animal models such as zebrafish are ideally suited for genetic and chemical screens, the study of cellular aspects of hematopoietic development in lower vertebrates is severely hampered by the complex nature of their histocompatibility-determining genes. Hence, even when hosts are sublethally irradiated before hematopoietic cell transplantation, stable and long-term reconstitution by allogeneic stem cells often fails. Here, we describe the unexpected observation that transplantation and maintenance of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cells in zebrafish homozygous for the c-myb(t25127) allele, carrying a missense mutation (Ile181Asn) in the DNA binding domain can be achieved without prior conditioning. Using this model, we examined several critical parameters of zebrafish hematopoiesis in a near-physiological setting. Limiting dilution analysis suggests that the kidney marrow of adult zebrafish harbors about 10 transplantable hematopoietic stem cells; this tissue also contains thymus-settling precursors that colonize the thymic rudiment within days after transplantation and initiate robust T-cell development. We also demonstrate that c-myb mutants can be stably reconstituted with hematopoietic cells carrying specific genetic defects in lymphocyte development, exemplifying one of the many potential uses of this model in experimental hematology.
Collapse
|
28
|
Histocompatibility and hematopoietic transplantation in the zebrafish. Adv Hematol 2012; 2012:282318. [PMID: 22778744 PMCID: PMC3388487 DOI: 10.1155/2012/282318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2012] [Accepted: 05/01/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The zebrafish has proven to be an excellent model for human disease, particularly hematopoietic diseases, since these fish make similar types of blood cells as humans and other mammals. The genetic program that regulates the development and differentiation of hematopoietic cells is highly conserved. Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are the source of all the blood cells needed by an organism during its lifetime. Identifying an HSC requires a functional assay, namely, a transplantation assay consisting of multilineage engraftment of a recipient and subsequent serial transplant recipients. In the past decade, several types of hematopoietic transplant assays have been developed in the zebrafish. An understanding of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes in the zebrafish has lagged behind transplantation experiments, limiting the ability to perform unbiased competitive transplantation assays. This paper summarizes the different hematopoietic transplantation experiments performed in the zebrafish, both with and without immunologic matching, and discusses future directions for this powerful experimental model of human blood diseases.
Collapse
|
29
|
Kawasaki T, Saito K, Sakai C, Shinya M, Sakai N. Production of zebrafish offspring from cultured spermatogonial stem cells. Genes Cells 2012; 17:316-25. [PMID: 22390480 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2443.2012.01589.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Germ-line stem cells have the potential to be a very powerful tool for modifying the genetic information of individual animals. As a first step to use spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) to enable genetic modification, we here describe effective long-term culture conditions for propagating zebrafish SSCs and for the production of offspring from these cultured SSCs after their differentiation into sperm in transplanted testicular cell aggregates. Dissociated testicular cells were cultured in specific medium with some modified supplements, including several mammalian growth factors. The spermatogonia actively proliferated and retained the expression of exogenous green fluorescent protein under the control of vas and sox17 promoters and also of promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger (Plzf), a marker of undifferentiated spermatogonia, after 1 month in culture. This is a longer period than the entire natural spermatogenic cycle (from SSCs to sperm). The use of subcutaneously grafted aggregates of these cultured spermatogonia and freshly dissociated testicular cells showed that these SSCs could undergo self-renewal and differentiation into sperm. Artificial insemination of these grafted aggregates successfully produced offspring. This culture method will facilitate the identification of new factors for the maintenance of SSCs and enable the future enrichment of genetically modified SSCs that will produce offspring in zebrafish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Toshihiro Kawasaki
- Genetic Strains Research Centre, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima 411-8540, Japan
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|