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Archer CL, Tsuji NK, Waters MH, Brazzell JL, Fong DL, Leszczynski JK, Manuel CA, Habenicht LM. Evaluation of a gel-based versus micro-pellet diet for adult zebrafish ( Danio rerio). Lab Anim 2024:236772241244834. [PMID: 39102523 DOI: 10.1177/00236772241244834] [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: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
Ad libitum feeding of laboratory zebrafish has potential benefits for colony management, but would require a new type of diet, such as a gel that remains in the tank. We hypothesized that adult zebrafish fed a gel diet would have similar body size and reproductive success compared with those fed a standard micro-pellet diet. The gel diet’s impact on water quality was determined to be safe for zebrafish prior to starting a 12-week feeding study. Two hundred adult AB zebrafish of mixed sex were randomly assigned to be fed exclusively either gel or micro-pellet diet. Fish body length and mass were measured every two weeks, and fish were bred within each feed group to assess fecundity. Zebrafish consumed less gel diet than expected. Body length, mass, and breeding success were lower in the gel diet fish than in the micro-pellet diet fish. Low consumption of the gel diet and/or nutritional differences between the two diets may have contributed to reduced growth and fecundity. Though the gel diet could reduce time personnel spend feeding and be safer for fish in static tanks, the tested formulation was not a satisfactory alternative to the control micro-pellet diet in a research zebrafish colony.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine L Archer
- Pediatrics, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Nikki K Tsuji
- Office of Laboratory Animal Resources, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, USA
| | - Molly H Waters
- Pediatrics, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | | | - Derek L Fong
- Office of Laboratory Animal Resources, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, USA
- Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Jori K Leszczynski
- Office of Laboratory Animal Resources, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, USA
- Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Christopher A Manuel
- Office of Laboratory Animal Resources, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, USA
- Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Lauren M Habenicht
- Office of Laboratory Animal Resources, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, USA
- Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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2
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Birgersson L, Odenlund S, Sturve J. Effects of Environmental Enrichment on Exposure to Human-Relevant Mixtures of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals in Zebrafish. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1296. [PMID: 38731300 PMCID: PMC11083384 DOI: 10.3390/ani14091296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Fish models used for chemical exposure in toxicological studies are normally kept in barren tanks without any structural environmental enrichment. Here, we tested the combined effects of environmental enrichment and exposure to two mixtures of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in zebrafish. Firstly, we assessed whether developmental exposure to an EDC mixture (MIX G1) combined with rearing the fish in an enriched environment influenced behaviour later in life. This was evaluated using locomotion tracking one month after exposure, showing a significant interaction effect between enrichment and the MIX G1 exposure on the measured locomotion parameters. After three months, we assessed behaviour using custom-made behaviour tanks, and found that enrichment influenced swimming activity. Control fish from the enriched environment were more active than control fish from the barren environment. Secondly, we exposed adult zebrafish to a separate EDC mixture (MIX G0) after rearing them in a barren or enriched environment. Behaviour and hepatic mRNA expression for thyroid-related genes were assessed. There was a significant interaction effect between exposure and enrichment on swimming activity and an effect of environment on latency to approach the group of conspecifics, where enriched fish took more time to approach the group, possibly indicating that they were less anxious. Hepatic gene expression of a thyroid-related gene (thrb) was significantly affected by EDC exposure, while enrichment had no discernible impact on the expression of the measured genes. In conclusion, environmental enrichment is important to consider when studying the effects of EDCs in fish.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Joachim Sturve
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Box 463, SE-405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden; (L.B.); (S.O.)
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3
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Abozaid A, Gerlai R. A search for effective reinforcers in appetitive conditioning for adult zebrafish: Ecologically relevant unconditioned stimuli. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 131:110946. [PMID: 38237886 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.110946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Learning and memory related brain disorders represent a large unmet medical need. Laboratory studies with animals may model brain disorders and facilitate uncovering their mechanisms. The zebrafish has been proposed for such studies. However, numerous factors that influence performance in learning tasks have yet to be understood in zebrafish. One such factor is what motivates zebrafish. Here we introduce a novel reinforcer, an ecologically relevant unconditioned stimulus (US). We placed a photograph of gravel underneath quarter of the bottom of an experimental tank on one side and also positioned artificial plants there, the "natural" US. First, we showed that this stimulus was preferred by zebrafish. Next, we investigated whether this stimulus could serve as US for associative learning. We marked the walls of the tank on the side where the US was presented with red paper, the conditioned stimulus (CS+) we found neutral before, and we also marked the walls on the other side of the tank where no US was placed with blue paper (CS-). In addition to fish receiving this "paired" training, we also ran unpaired training with another group of zebrafish, in which the fish saw the US associated with blue and red in a random manner. After having trained the fish in this manner, we tested the performance of the paired and unpaired group of zebrafish in a memory probe trial during which no US was present, and only the CSs (blue and red walls) were shown. We found the paired group of zebrafish to show significant preference for the CS+, as they spent more time and swam closer to the red side compared to the unpaired group and compared to chance. We conclude that ecologically relevant stimuli can serve as efficient US in appetitive conditioning of zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amira Abozaid
- Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, 25 Harbord Street Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3G5, Canada
| | - Robert Gerlai
- Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, 25 Harbord Street Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3G5, Canada; Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road, Mississauga, Ontario, L5L 1C6, Canada.
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4
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Santacà M, Gatto E, Dadda M, Bruzzone M, Dal Maschio M, Bisazza A. Exploring the Importance of Environmental Complexity for Newly Hatched Zebrafish. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1031. [PMID: 38612270 PMCID: PMC11011065 DOI: 10.3390/ani14071031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The effects of an early impoverished social or physical environment on vertebrate neural development and cognition has been known for decades. While existing studies have focused on the long-term effects, measuring adult cognitive phenotypes, studies on the effects of environmental complexity on the early stages of development are lacking. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) hatchlings are assumed to have minimal interaction with their environment and are routinely reared in small, bare containers. To investigate the effects of being raised under such conditions on development of behaviour and cognition, hatchlings housed for 10 days in either an enriched or a standard environment underwent two cognitive tasks. The results were mixed. Subjects of the two treatments did not differ in performance when required to discriminate two areas. Conversely, we found a significant effect in a number discrimination task, with subjects from impoverished condition performing significantly worse. In both experiments, larvae reared in impoverished environment showed a reduced locomotor activity. Given the effects that enrichment appears to exert on larvae, a third experiment explored whether hatchlings exhibit a spontaneous preference for more complex environments. When offered a choice between a bare setting and one with objects of different shapes and colors, larvae spent over 70% of time in the enriched sector. Deepening these effects of an early impoverished environment on cognitive development is crucial for the welfare of captive zebrafish populations and for enhancing the quality and reliability of studies on larval zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Santacà
- Department of Behavioral and Cognitive Biology, University of Vienna, 1030 Vienna, Austria
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (M.D.)
| | - Elia Gatto
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
- Department of Life Science and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marco Dadda
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (M.D.)
| | - Matteo Bruzzone
- Padua Neuroscience Center, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy (M.D.M.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Marco Dal Maschio
- Padua Neuroscience Center, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy (M.D.M.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Angelo Bisazza
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (M.D.)
- Padua Neuroscience Center, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy (M.D.M.)
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5
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Licitra R, Fronte B, Verri T, Marchese M, Sangiacomo C, Santorelli FM. Zebrafish Feed Intake: A Systematic Review for Standardizing Feeding Management in Laboratory Conditions. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:209. [PMID: 38666821 PMCID: PMC11047914 DOI: 10.3390/biology13040209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Zebrafish are one of the most used animal models in biological research and a cost-effective alternative to rodents. Despite this, nutritional requirements and standardized feeding protocols have not yet been established for this species. This is important to avoid nutritional effects on experimental outcomes, and especially when zebrafish models are used in preclinical studies, as many diseases have nutritional confounding factors. A key aspect of zebrafish nutrition is related to feed intake, the amount of feed ingested by each fish daily. With the goal of standardizing feeding protocols among the zebrafish community, this paper systematically reviews the available data from 73 studies on zebrafish feed intake, feeding regimes (levels), and diet composition. Great variability was observed regarding diet composition, especially regarding crude protein (mean 44.98 ± 9.87%) and lipid content (9.91 ± 5.40%). Interestingly, the gross energy levels of the zebrafish diets were similar across the reviewed studies (20.39 ± 2.10 kilojoules/g of feed). In most of the reviewed papers, fish received a predetermined quantity of feed (feed supplied). The authors fed the fish according to the voluntary intake and then calculated feed intake (FI) in only 17 papers. From a quantitative point of view, FI was higher than when a fixed quantity (pre-defined) of feed was supplied. Also, the literature showed that many biotic and abiotic factors may affect zebrafish FI. Finally, based on the FI data gathered from the literature, a new feeding protocol is proposed. In summary, a daily feeding rate of 9-10% of body weight is proposed for larvae, whereas these values are equal to 6-8% for juveniles and 5% for adults when a dry feed with a proper protein and energy content is used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosario Licitra
- Department of Neurobiology and Molecular Medicine, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, 56128 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Baldassare Fronte
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (B.F.); (C.S.)
| | - Tiziano Verri
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy;
| | - Maria Marchese
- Department of Neurobiology and Molecular Medicine, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, 56128 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Chiara Sangiacomo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (B.F.); (C.S.)
| | - Filippo Maria Santorelli
- Department of Neurobiology and Molecular Medicine, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, 56128 Pisa, Italy;
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6
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Yadav RSP, Ansari F, Bera N, Kent C, Agrawal P. Lessons from lonely flies: Molecular and neuronal mechanisms underlying social isolation. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 156:105504. [PMID: 38061597 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Animals respond to changes in the environment which affect their internal state by adapting their behaviors. Social isolation is a form of passive environmental stressor that alters behaviors across animal kingdom, including humans, rodents, and fruit flies. Social isolation is known to increase violence, disrupt sleep and increase depression leading to poor mental and physical health. Recent evidences from several model organisms suggest that social isolation leads to remodeling of the transcriptional and epigenetic landscape which alters behavioral outcomes. In this review, we explore how manipulating social experience of fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster can shed light on molecular and neuronal mechanisms underlying isolation driven behaviors. We discuss the recent advances made using the powerful genetic toolkit and behavioral assays in Drosophila to uncover role of neuromodulators, sensory modalities, pheromones, neuronal circuits and molecular mechanisms in mediating social isolation. The insights gained from these studies could be crucial for developing effective therapeutic interventions in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Sai Prathap Yadav
- Centre for Molecular Neurosciences, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Karnataka 576104, India
| | - Faizah Ansari
- Centre for Molecular Neurosciences, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Karnataka 576104, India
| | - Neha Bera
- Centre for Molecular Neurosciences, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Karnataka 576104, India
| | - Clement Kent
- Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
| | - Pavan Agrawal
- Centre for Molecular Neurosciences, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Karnataka 576104, India.
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7
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Mählis G, Kleine A, Lüschow D, Bartel A, Wiegard M, Thoene-Reineke C. Clicker Training as an Applied Refinement Measure in Chickens. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3836. [PMID: 38136873 PMCID: PMC10740453 DOI: 10.3390/ani13243836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
When using chickens in animal studies, the handling of these animals for sample collection or general examinations is considered stressful due to their prey nature. For the study presented here, plasma and salivary corticosterone as well as New Area Test behavior and fecal output were used to evaluate whether it is possible to influence this stress perception using a three-week clicker training program. The results indicate that clicker training seems to be a suitable refinement measure in the sense of cognitive enrichment for the husbandry of this species. However, since it was also shown that three-week training was not sufficient to sustainably reduce the stress perception with regard to prolonged stressor exposure, and since it was also evident that manipulations such as routine blood sampling are perceived as less stressful than assumed, further studies with prolonged training intervals and situations with higher stressor potential are warranted. Also, further parameters for training assessment must be considered. For the general use of training as a supportive measure in animal experiments, its proportionality must be considered, particularly considering the expected stress and adequate training time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gordon Mählis
- Institute of Animal Welfare, Animal Behavior and Laboratory Animal Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Königsweg 67, 14163 Berlin, Germany; (M.W.); (C.T.-R.)
| | - Anne Kleine
- Division for Poultry, Farm Animal Clinic, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Königsweg 63, 14163 Berlin, Germany; (A.K.); (D.L.)
| | - Dörte Lüschow
- Division for Poultry, Farm Animal Clinic, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Königsweg 63, 14163 Berlin, Germany; (A.K.); (D.L.)
| | - Alexander Bartel
- Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Königsweg 67, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Mechthild Wiegard
- Institute of Animal Welfare, Animal Behavior and Laboratory Animal Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Königsweg 67, 14163 Berlin, Germany; (M.W.); (C.T.-R.)
| | - Christa Thoene-Reineke
- Institute of Animal Welfare, Animal Behavior and Laboratory Animal Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Königsweg 67, 14163 Berlin, Germany; (M.W.); (C.T.-R.)
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8
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Zhang L, Zhou J. Zebrafish: A smart tool for heart disease research. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2023. [PMID: 37824489 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.15585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of heart disease poses a significant threat to human survival and safety. However, the current treatments available for heart disease are quite limited. Therefore, it is of great importance to utilize suitable animal models that can accurately simulate the physiological characteristics of heart disease. This would help improve our understanding of this disease and aid in the development of new treatment methods and drugs. Zebrafish hearts not only exhibit similarities to mammalian hearts, but they also share ~70% of homologous genes with humans. Utilizing zebrafish as an alternative to costly and time-consuming mammalian models offers numerous advantages. Zebrafish models can be easily established and maintained, and compound screening and genetic methods allow for the creation of various economical and easily controlled zebrafish and zebrafish embryonic heart disease models in a short period of time. Consequently, zebrafish have become a powerful tool for exploring the pathological mechanisms of heart disease and identifying new effective genes. In this review, we summarize recent studies on different zebrafish models of heart disease. We also describe the techniques and protocols used to develop zebrafish models of myocardial infarction, heart failure, and congenital heart disease, including surgical procedures, forward and reverse genetics, as well as drug and combination screening. This review aims to promote the utilization of zebrafish models in investigating diverse pathological mechanisms of heart disease, enhancing our knowledge and comprehension of heart disease, and offering novel insights and objectives for exploring the prevention and treatment of heart disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lantian Zhang
- Education Branch, Chongqing Publishing Group, Chongqing, China
| | - Jinrun Zhou
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Science, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
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9
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Husain A, Meenakshi DU, Ahmad A, Shrivastava N, Khan SA. A Review on Alternative Methods to Experimental Animals in Biological Testing: Recent Advancement and Current Strategies. JOURNAL OF PHARMACY AND BIOALLIED SCIENCES 2023; 15:165-171. [PMID: 38235048 PMCID: PMC10790740 DOI: 10.4103/jpbs.jpbs_380_23] [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: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
With an increase in the progression of research and development in the medical field, the experimental use of animals for the efficacy and safety testing of pharmaceuticals is on rise. Every year, millions of animals are used for experimental testing during which these suffer from pain and are then eventually sacrificed. Besides bioethical issues, animal experimentation is associated with many disadvantages like high cost, the requirement of skilled manpower, approval, and is time-consuming. Therefore, attempts have been made by researchers to design and develop a number of alternative methods that could bypass animal experiments. These methods not only give accurate results but can also save lives of millions of animals annually. Research techniques, including computer and robotics together with molecular biology techniques, are applied to discover new methods to replace animal testing. Several alternative methods are discussed in this review. Some of these methods can predict the behavior of drugs accurately and are as reliable as in-vivo animal models. Furthermore, these alternative methods offer a variety of advantages over experimental animals. However, there is still a great need to discover and develop new, accurate, and reliable methods to replace experimental animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asif Husain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Dhanalekshmi U. Meenakshi
- College of Pharmacy, National University of Science and Technology, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
- Centre of Molecular Medicine and Diagnostics (COMMAND), Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India
| | - Aftab Ahmad
- Department of Health Information Technology, The Applied College, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacovigilance and Medication Safety Unit, Center of Research Excellence for Drug Research and Pharmaceutical Industries, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Neelima Shrivastava
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Shah A. Khan
- College of Pharmacy, National University of Science and Technology, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
- Centre of Molecular Medicine and Diagnostics (COMMAND), Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India
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10
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Mair A, Dadda M, Kitaoka A, Agrillo C. Illu-Shoal Choice: An Exploration of Different Means for Enrichment of Captive Zebrafish. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2640. [PMID: 37627431 PMCID: PMC10451799 DOI: 10.3390/ani13162640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Fish of any variety are nowadays being kept captive for several purposes, from recreational to alimentary to research. It is possible that we humans often underestimate or misunderstand the basic, natural needs of the species we use for our purposes. Sociality is likely to play an extensive and fundamental role in the quality of life of animals such as zebrafish. This study aimed to develop a dummy conspecific that included depth and motion illusions in order to assess whether these stimuli could represent a valid alternative to a conspecific in triggering shoaling behaviour in a well-known model in genetics and neuroscience, the zebrafish (Dario rerio). We thus replaced the natural livery of a zebrafish shape with three visual illusions: the Ouchi-Spillmann illusion, which generates an effect of local tilting motion; and another two which should create pictorial cues of tridimensionality. Via a binary shoal choice test, we assessed the time spent close to each of the three artificial dummies compared to neutral control stimuli such as grey ellipses. We found no preference for the illusory patterns, suggesting that the illusion was not perceived or, alternatively, that the perception of the illusion was not enough to elicit recognition of the dummy as conspecific and subsequent social behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Mair
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padua, 35131 Padova, Italy; (M.D.); (C.A.)
| | - Marco Dadda
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padua, 35131 Padova, Italy; (M.D.); (C.A.)
| | - Akiyoshi Kitaoka
- Department of Psychology, Ritsumeikan University, Osaka 567-8570, Japan;
| | - Christian Agrillo
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padua, 35131 Padova, Italy; (M.D.); (C.A.)
- Padua Neuroscience Center, University of Padua, 35131 Padova, Italy
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11
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Kleinhappel TK, Pike TW, Burman OHP. Changes in group behaviour in response to a preferred environment reflect positive affect. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10576. [PMID: 37386060 PMCID: PMC10310767 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37763-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
When observed in their preferred environments, animals display behavioural changes, such as an increase in resting or a reduction in agonism, suggestive of positive affect and improved welfare. However, most studies focus on the behaviour of individuals or, at most, pairs of animals; even though in group-living animals beneficial environmental changes may impact on how the group behaves as a whole. In this study, we investigated whether experiencing a preferred visual environment affected the shoaling behaviour of zebrafish (Danio rerio) groups. We first confirmed a group preference for an image of gravel placed underneath the base of a tank compared to a plain white image. Second, we observed replicated groups either with or without the preferred (gravel) image present to determine if a visually enriched and preferred environment could elicit changes in shoaling behaviour. We found a significant interaction between the observation time and test condition, with differences in shoaling behaviour reflective of increased relaxation emerging gradually over time in the gravel condition. The findings of this study reveal that experiencing a preferred environment can alter group behaviour, making such holistic changes valuable as potential indicators of positive welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas W Pike
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, LN6 7DL, UK
| | - Oliver H P Burman
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, LN6 7DL, UK.
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12
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Kozol RA, Yuiska A, Han JH, Tolentino B, Lopatto A, Lewis P, Paz A, Keene AC, Kowalko JE, Duboué ER. Novel Husbandry Practices Result in Rapid Rates of Growth and Sexual Maturation Without Impacting Adult Behavior in the Blind Mexican Cavefish. Zebrafish 2023; 20:86-94. [PMID: 37071855 PMCID: PMC10123811 DOI: 10.1089/zeb.2023.0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Animal model systems are dependent on the standardization of husbandry protocols that maximize growth and reduce generation time. The Mexican tetra, Astyanax mexicanus, exists as eyed surface and blind cave dwelling populations. The opportunity for comparative approaches between independently evolved populations has led to the rapid growth of A. mexicanus as a model for evolution and biomedical research. However, a slow and inconsistent growth rate remains a major limitation to the expanded application of A. mexicanus. Fortunately, this temporal limitation can be addressed through husbandry changes that accelerate growth rates while maintaining optimal health outcomes. Here, we describe a husbandry protocol that produces rapid growth rates through changes in diet, feeding frequency, growth sorting and progressive changes in tank size. This protocol produced robust growth rates and decreased the age of sexual maturity in comparison to our previous protocol. To determine whether changes in feeding impacted behavior, we tested fish in exploration and schooling assays. We found no difference in behavior between the two groups, suggesting that increased feeding and rapid growth will not impact the natural variation in behavioral traits. Taken together, this standardized husbandry protocol will accelerate the development of A. mexicanus as a genetic model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A. Kozol
- College of Arts and Sciences, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, Florida, USA
| | - Anders Yuiska
- College of Arts and Sciences, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, Florida, USA
| | - Ji Heon Han
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, Florida, USA
| | - Bernadeth Tolentino
- Department of Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Arthur Lopatto
- College of Arts and Sciences, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, Florida, USA
| | - Peter Lewis
- College of Arts and Sciences, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, Florida, USA
| | - Alexandra Paz
- College of Arts and Sciences, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, Florida, USA
| | - Alex C. Keene
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Johanna E. Kowalko
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Erik R. Duboué
- College of Arts and Sciences, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, Florida, USA
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13
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Jorge S, Félix L, Costas B, Valentim AM. Housing Conditions Affect Adult Zebrafish ( Danio rerio) Behavior but Not Their Physiological Status. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13061120. [PMID: 36978661 PMCID: PMC10044285 DOI: 10.3390/ani13061120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Zebrafish is a valuable model for neuroscience research, but the housing conditions to which it is exposed daily may be impairing its welfare status. The use of environmental enrichment and the refinement of methodology for cortisol measurement could reduce stress, improving its welfare and its suitability as an animal model used in stress research. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate (I) the influence of different housing conditions on zebrafish physiology and behavior, and (II) skin mucus potential for cortisol measurement in adult zebrafish. For this, AB zebrafish were raised under barren or enriched (PVC pipes and gravel image) environmental conditions. After 6 months, their behavior was assessed by different behavioral paradigms (shoaling, white-black box test, and novel tank). The physiological response was also evaluated through cortisol levels (whole-body homogenates and skin mucus) and brain oxidative stress markers. The results revealed that enriched-housed fish had an increased nearest neighbors' distance and reduced activity. However, no effect on body length or stress biomarkers was observed; whole-body and skin mucus cortisol levels had the same profile between groups. In conclusion, this study highlights the skin mucus potential as a matrix for cortisol quantification, and how housing conditions could influence the data in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Jorge
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory Animal Science, IBMC-Instituto de Biologia Molecular Celular, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, (CIIMAR), 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Luís Félix
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Instituto para a Inovação, Capacitação e Sustentabilidade da Produção Agroalimentar (Inov4Agro), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Benjamín Costas
- Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, (CIIMAR), 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana M Valentim
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory Animal Science, IBMC-Instituto de Biologia Molecular Celular, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
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14
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Structural environmental enrichment and the way it is offered influence cognitive judgement bias and anxiety-like behaviours in zebrafish. Anim Cogn 2023; 26:563-577. [PMID: 36209454 DOI: 10.1007/s10071-022-01700-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Environmental enrichment in zebrafish generally reduces anxiety-related behaviours, improves learning in maze trials and increases health and biological fitness. However, certain types of enrichment or certain conditions induce the opposite effects. Therefore, it is essential to study the characteristics of environmental enrichment that modulate these effects. This study aims to investigate if structural environmental enrichment and the way it is offered influence cognitive judgement bias and anxiety-like behaviours in adult zebrafish. The fish were assigned to six housing manipulations: constant barren, constant enrichment, gradual gain of enrichment, gradual loss of enrichment, sudden gain of enrichment and sudden loss of enrichment. We then transposed the cognitive judgment bias paradigm, formerly used in studies on other animals to measure the link between emotion and cognition, to objectively assess the impact of these manipulations on the zebrafish's interpretation of ambiguous stimuli, considering previous experiences and related emotional states. We used two battery tests (light/dark and activity tests), which measured anxiety-related behaviours to check if these tests covariate with cognitive bias results. The fish with a sudden gain in enrichment showed a pessimistic bias (interpreted ambiguous stimuli as negative). In addition, the fish that experienced a sudden gain and a gradual loss in enrichment showed more anxiety-like behaviours than the fish that experienced constant conditions or a gradual gain in enrichment. The data provide some proof that structural environmental enrichment and the way it is presented can alter zebrafish's cognitive bias and anxiety-like behaviours.
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15
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Kütter MT, Barcellos LJG, Boyle RT, Marins LF, Silveira T. Good practices in the rearing and maintenance of zebrafish (Danio rerio) in Brazilian laboratories. CIÊNCIA ANIMAL BRASILEIRA 2023. [DOI: 10.1590/1809-6891v24e-74134e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) is a management quality control system that encompasses the organizational process and conditions under which non-clinical health and environmental studies are carried out. According to the World Health Organization, GLP must contain five topics: resources, characterization, rules, results, and quality control. This work aims to address a review according to WHO standards of implementing Good Laboratory Practices in zebrafish (Danio rerio) vivariums. Considering that the promotion of one health (animal, human, and environmental) associated with an education plan, protocols, and records are fundamental to guarantee the safety and integrity of employees, animals, and the environment as well as reliability in the results generated. In a way, Brazil still needs improvements related to the well-being of aquatic organisms (national laws, international agreements, corporate programs, and others), especially concerning its use in research and technological development. In this way, the implementation of GLPs provides valuable guidance for improving animal welfare and worker safety, facilitating the standardization of research.
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16
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Kütter MT, Barcellos LJG, Boyle RT, Marins LF, Silveira T. Boas práticas na criação e manutenção de zebrafish (Danio rerio) em laboratório no Brasil. CIÊNCIA ANIMAL BRASILEIRA 2023. [DOI: 10.1590/1809-6891v24e-74134p] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Resumo As Boas Práticas de Laboratório (BPL) são um sistema de controle de qualidade gerencial que abrange o processo organizacional e as condições sob as quais os estudos não clínicos de saúde e meio ambiente são desenvolvidos. Conforme a Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) as BPL devem conter cinco tópicos: recursos, caracterização, regras, resultados e controle de qualidade. O objetivo deste trabalho foi apresentar uma revisão conforme o padrão da OMS para a implementação das BPL em biotério de zebrafish. Considerando que a promoção da saúde única (animal, humana e ambiental) associada a um plano de educação, protocolos e registros são fundamentais para garantir a segurança e a integridade dos trabalhadores/pesquisadores, animais e meio ambiente assim como confiabilidade nos resultados gerados. De certa forma o Brasil ainda necessita de melhorias relacionadas ao bem-estar de organismos aquáticos (leis nacionais, acordos internacionais, programas corporativos e outros); especialmente em relação à utilização deste na pesquisa e desenvolvimento tecnológico. Desta forma, a implementação de BPL fornece uma orientação valiosa para a melhoria do bem-estar animal, e segurança do trabalhador vindo a facilitar a padronização da pesquisa.
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17
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Prentice PM, Houslay TM, Wilson AJ. Exploiting animal personality to reduce chronic stress in captive fish populations. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:1046205. [PMID: 36590805 PMCID: PMC9794626 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1046205] [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: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic stress is a major source of welfare problems in many captive populations, including fishes. While we have long known that chronic stress effects arise from maladaptive expression of acute stress response pathways, predicting where and when problems will arise is difficult. Here we highlight how insights from animal personality research could be useful in this regard. Since behavior is the first line of organismal defense when challenged by a stressor, assays of shy-bold type personality variation can provide information about individual stress response that is expected to predict susceptibility to chronic stress. Moreover, recent demonstrations that among-individual differences in stress-related physiology and behaviors are underpinned by genetic factors means that selection on behavioral biomarkers could offer a route to genetic improvement of welfare outcomes in captive fish stocks. Here we review the evidence in support of this proposition, identify remaining empirical gaps in our understanding, and set out appropriate criteria to guide development of biomarkers. The article is largely prospective: fundamental research into fish personality shows how behavioral biomarkers could be used to achieve welfare gains in captive fish populations. However, translating potential to actual gains will require an interdisciplinary approach that integrates the expertise and viewpoints of researchers working across animal behavior, genetics, and welfare science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela M. Prentice
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom,Institute of Aquaculture, University of Stirling, Stirling, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas M. Houslay
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom,Ecology and Environment Research Centre, Department of Natural Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Alastair J. Wilson
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Alastair J. Wilson
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18
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Green MR, Swaney WT. Interacting effects of environmental enrichment across multiple generations on early life phenotypes in zebrafish. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART B: MOLECULAR AND DEVELOPMENTAL EVOLUTION 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.b.23184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael R. Green
- School of Biological and Environmental Sciences Liverpool John Moores University Liverpool UK
- Chester Medical School University of Chester Chester UK
| | - William T. Swaney
- School of Biological and Environmental Sciences Liverpool John Moores University Liverpool UK
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19
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Tsang B, Gerlai RT. Common Aquarium Plants as an Enrichment Strategy in Zebrafish Facilities. Zebrafish 2022; 19:218-223. [PMID: 36322902 DOI: 10.1089/zeb.2022.0036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
An increasing number of laboratories utilize zebrafish as this species is now represented in practically every subfield of biology research. Environmental enrichment has been shown to improve welfare and health of a large number of species of animals studied in laboratories, kept in zoos, or used in agriculture. However, most laboratories keep zebrafish in barren tanks. Artificial and live aquatic plants have been used in a variety of contexts for aquarium fish, and they have also been suggested as a potential enrichment strategy for the zebrafish. However, no systematic studies have been conducted to investigate their beneficial effects in zebrafish husbandry and biology research. In this study, we review some of the potential benefits of using live plants, and argue that systematic analyses for proper choice and use of live plants in zebrafish husbandry are sorely needed. We provide a few examples of aquatic plant species out of the large variety produced for the aquarium hobby that could be adopted to the zebrafish laboratory setting as environmental enrichment. We speculate that once systematic analyses have been conducted, they will show benefits of this ethologically/ecologically relevant enrichment method, one of which will be healthier and less stressed fish leading to increased reproducibility of results in zebrafish research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Tsang
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Canada.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Robert T Gerlai
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Canada.,Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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20
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Winberg S, Sneddon L. Impact of intraspecific variation in teleost fishes: aggression, dominance status and stress physiology. J Exp Biol 2022; 225:278485. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.169250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Dominance-based social hierarchies are common among teleost fishes. The rank of an animal greatly affects its behaviour, physiology and development. The outcome of fights for social dominance is affected by heritable factors and previous social experience. Divergent stress-coping styles have been demonstrated in a large number of teleosts, and fish displaying a proactive coping style have an advantage in fights for social dominance. Coping style has heritable components, but it appears to be largely determined by environmental factors, especially social experience. Agonistic behaviour is controlled by the brain's social decision-making network, and its monoaminergic systems play important roles in modifying the activity of this neuronal network. In this Review, we discuss the development of dominance hierarchies, how social rank is signalled through visual and chemical cues, and the neurobiological mechanisms controlling or correlating with agonistic behaviour. We also consider the effects of social interactions on the welfare of fish reared in captivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svante Winberg
- Uppsala University 1 Behavioural Neuroendocrinology, Department of Medical Cell Biology , , 751 23 Uppsala , Sweden
| | - Lynne Sneddon
- University of Gothenburg 2 Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences , , PO Box: 463, 405 31 Gothenburg , Sweden
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21
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Shishis S, Tsang B, Gerlai R. The effect of fish density and tank size on the behavior of adult zebrafish: A systematic analysis. Front Behav Neurosci 2022; 16:934809. [PMID: 36275854 PMCID: PMC9581232 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2022.934809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The zebrafish has been employed in several fields of biology due to its translational relevance and its simplicity and ease of maintenance. As a result, zebrafish are kept in thousands of laboratories around the world. Current industry standards favor keeping the largest possible number of fish in the smallest possible volume of water to increase efficiency and reduce costs. However, physiological and psychological stress resulting from such crowding may impact a variety of phenotypes, from brain function and behavior to cardiovascular function and cancer. Nevertheless, surprisingly little is known about what constitutes an optimal housing environment for the zebrafish, e.g., no systematic analyses have been performed to test the role of housing density and tank volume despite recent sporadic reports implying negative effects of the standard practice of crowding. Here, we conduct the first proof of concept analysis examining the potential impact of housing density and tank volume on the behavior of zebrafish. We randomly assigned adult zebrafish to one of three tank sizes (1.5, 10, or 50 L) with one of three housing densities (1, 2, or 4 fish/L), a 3 × 3 between subject experimental design, and maintained the fish in their corresponding condition for 2 weeks. Subsequently, we tested the behavior of the fish singly in a novel open tank for 12 min and quantified several of their swim path parameters using a video-tracking system. We found significant additive and interacting effects of tank size and/or housing density on swim path parameters including immobility, swim speed, turn angle, and distance to bottom and to stimulus. Although we had only three fish densities and three tank sizes and we did not explore the effects of more extreme conditions and although the interpretation of the above behavioral effects is speculative at this point, the results already demonstrate that both tank size and housing density exerts significant effects on the zebrafish and thus should be considered in zebrafish husbandry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Shishis
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Benjamin Tsang
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Robert Gerlai
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
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22
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Biliary Atresia Animal Models: Is the Needle in a Haystack? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147838. [PMID: 35887185 PMCID: PMC9324346 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Biliary atresia (BA) is a progressive fibro-obliterative process with a variable degree of inflammation involving the hepatobiliary system. Its consequences are incalculable for the patients, the affected families, relatives, and the healthcare system. Scientific communities have identified a rate of about 1 case per 10,000-20,000 live births, but the percentage may be higher, considering the late diagnoses. The etiology is heterogeneous. BA, which is considered in half of the causes leading to orthotopic liver transplantation, occurs in primates and non-primates. To consolidate any model, (1) more transport and cell membrane studies are needed to identify the exact mechanism of noxa-related hepatotoxicity; (2) an online platform may be key to share data from pilot projects and new techniques; and (3) the introduction of differentially expressed genes may be useful in investigating the liver metabolism to target the most intricate bilio-toxic effects of pharmaceutical drugs and toxins. As a challenge, such methodologies are still limited to very few centers, making the identification of highly functional animal models like finding a "needle in a haystack". This review compiles models from the haystack and hopes that a combinatorial search will eventually be the root for a successful pathway.
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23
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Valentine S, Kwasek K. Feeding Rate and Protein Quality Differentially Affect Growth and Feeding Efficiency Response Variables of Zebrafish ( Danio rerio). Zebrafish 2022; 19:94-103. [PMID: 35527676 DOI: 10.1089/zeb.2022.0002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Manipulating feeding rate and protein quality may improve growth and feeding efficiency of cultured species. However, whether feeding rate, protein quality, or their interaction has a greater effect on growth and feeding efficiency response variables is unknown. To determine whether feeding rate and protein quality individually or interactively affect growth and feeding efficiency, juvenile Zebrafish (Danio rerio) were either offered nutritionally similar diet consisting of either menhaden fishmeal protein or a 100% replacement of fishmeal with soybean meal-based protein restrictively or to satiation. Total length, weight, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were measured throughout the duration of the study. Protein quality and feeding rate individually and interactively affected feed intake and FCR: Zebrafish offered feed to satiation had higher growth and FCR than those fed restrictively, and Zebrafish fed soybean meal-based diet showed lower growth and higher FCR and feed intake compared to those fed fishmeal-based diet, although magnitude of response depended on feeding rate. These findings likely indicate lower digestibility of soybean meal or the presence of antinutritional factors in soybean meal that led to impaired nutrient absorption of fish offered soybean meal-based diet. Differences in measured response variables between protein qualities and feeding rates highlight the importance of determining interactive effects in nutritional studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaley Valentine
- Center for Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Aquatic Sciences, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, Carbondale, Illinois, USA
- School of Biological Sciences, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, Carbondale, Illinois, USA
| | - Karolina Kwasek
- Center for Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Aquatic Sciences, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, Carbondale, Illinois, USA
- School of Biological Sciences, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, Carbondale, Illinois, USA
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24
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Lee CJ, Paull GC, Tyler CR. Improving zebrafish laboratory welfare and scientific research through understanding their natural history. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2022; 97:1038-1056. [PMID: 34983085 PMCID: PMC9303617 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Globally, millions of zebrafish (Danio rerio) are used for scientific laboratory experiments for which researchers have a duty of care, with legal obligations to consider their welfare. Considering the growing use of the zebrafish as a vertebrate model for addressing a diverse range of scientific questions, optimising their laboratory conditions is of major importance for both welfare and improving scientific research. However, most guidelines for the care and breeding of zebrafish for research are concerned primarily with maximising production and minimising costs and pay little attention to the effects on welfare of the environments in which the fish are maintained, or how those conditions affect their scientific research. Here we review the physical and social conditions in which laboratory zebrafish are kept, identifying and drawing attention to factors likely to affect their welfare and experimental science. We also identify a fundamental lack knowledge of how zebrafish interact with many biotic and abiotic features in their natural environment to support ways to optimise zebrafish health and well-being in the laboratory, and in turn the quality of scientific data produced. We advocate that the conditions under which zebrafish are maintained need to become a more integral part of research and that we understand more fully how they influence experimental outcome and in turn interpretations of the data generated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carole J. Lee
- Biosciences, Geoffrey Pope BuildingUniversity of ExeterStocker RoadExeterEX4 4QDU.K.
| | - Gregory C. Paull
- Biosciences, Geoffrey Pope BuildingUniversity of ExeterStocker RoadExeterEX4 4QDU.K.
| | - Charles R. Tyler
- Biosciences, Geoffrey Pope BuildingUniversity of ExeterStocker RoadExeterEX4 4QDU.K.
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25
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Low Holding Densities Increase Stress Response and Aggression in Zebrafish. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11050725. [PMID: 35625453 PMCID: PMC9139139 DOI: 10.3390/biology11050725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
With laboratory zebrafish (Danio rerio) being an established and popular research model, there is a need for universal, research-based husbandry guidelines for this species, since guidelines can help promote good welfare through providing appropriate care. Despite the widespread use of zebrafish in research, it remains unclear how holding densities affect their welfare. Previous studies have mainly evaluated the effects of holding densities on a single parameter, such as growth, reproductive output, or social interactions, rather than looking at multiple welfare parameters simultaneously. Here we investigated how chronic (nine weeks) exposure to five different holding densities (1, 4, 8, 12, and 16 fish/L) affected multiple welfare indicators. We found that fish in the 1 fish/L density treatment had higher free water cortisol concentrations per fish, increased vertical distribution, and displayed aggressive behaviour more frequently than fish held at higher densities. On the other hand, density treatments had no effect on anxiety behaviour, whole-brain neurotransmitter levels, egg volume, or the proportion of fertilised eggs. Our results demonstrate that zebrafish can be held at densities between 4 and 16 fish/L without compromising their welfare. However, housing zebrafish in the density of 1 fish/L increased their stress level and aggressive behaviour.
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26
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Popper AN, Sisneros JA. The Sound World of Zebrafish: A Critical Review of Hearing Assessment. Zebrafish 2022; 19:37-48. [PMID: 35439045 DOI: 10.1089/zeb.2021.0063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Zebrafish, like all fish species, use sound to learn about their environment. Thus, human-generated (anthropogenic) sound added to the environment has the potential to disrupt the detection of biologically relevant sounds, alter behavior, impact fitness, and produce stress and other effects that can alter the well-being of animals. This review considers the bioacoustics of zebrafish in the laboratory with two goals. First, we discuss zebrafish hearing and the problems and issues that must be considered in any studies to get a clear understanding of hearing capabilities. Second, we focus on the potential effects of sounds in the tank environment and its impact on zebrafish physiology and health. To do this, we discuss underwater acoustics and the very specialized acoustics of fish tanks, in which zebrafish live and are studied. We consider what is known about zebrafish hearing and what is known about the potential impacts of tank acoustics on zebrafish and their well-being. We conclude with suggestions regarding the major gaps in what is known about zebrafish hearing as well as questions that must be explored to better understand how well zebrafish tolerate and deal with the acoustic world they live in within laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur N Popper
- Department of Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Joseph A Sisneros
- Department of Psychology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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27
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Gatto E, Dadda M, Bruzzone M, Chiarello E, De Russi G, Maschio MD, Bisazza A, Lucon‐Xiccato T. Environmental enrichment decreases anxiety‐like behavior in zebrafish larvae. Dev Psychobiol 2022; 64:e22255. [PMID: 35312057 PMCID: PMC9313885 DOI: 10.1002/dev.22255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elia Gatto
- Department of Chemical Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science University of Ferrara Ferrara Italy
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology University of Ferrara Ferrara Italy
| | - Marco Dadda
- Department of General Psychology University of Padova Padova Italy
| | - Matteo Bruzzone
- Padua Neuroscience Center–PNC University of Padova Padova Italy
| | | | - Gaia De Russi
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology University of Ferrara Ferrara Italy
| | - Marco Dal Maschio
- Padua Neuroscience Center–PNC University of Padova Padova Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences University of Padua Padova Italy
| | - Angelo Bisazza
- Department of General Psychology University of Padova Padova Italy
- Padua Neuroscience Center–PNC University of Padova Padova Italy
| | - Tyrone Lucon‐Xiccato
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology University of Ferrara Ferrara Italy
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28
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Alone but not always Lonely: Social Cues Alleviate Isolation Induced Behavioural Stress in Wild Zebrafish. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2022.105623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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29
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Ratuski AS, Weary DM. Environmental Enrichment for Rats and Mice Housed in Laboratories: A Metareview. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12040414. [PMID: 35203123 PMCID: PMC8868396 DOI: 10.3390/ani12040414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Environmental enrichment has been widely studied with laboratory rodents, but there is no consensus regarding what counts as enrichment or what it should achieve. Inconsistent use of the term “enrichment” creates challenges in drawing conclusions about the quality of an environment. We conducted a metareview to better understand the definitions and goals of enrichment, perceived risks or requirements of enrichment, and what forms of enrichment have previously been endorsed for use with rodents housed in laboratories. This may help researchers and animal care staff to better define their chosen approach and intended outcomes when providing environmental enrichment. Abstract Environmental enrichment has been widely studied in rodents, but there is no consensus on what enrichment should look like or what it should achieve. Inconsistent use of the term “enrichment” creates challenges in drawing conclusions about the quality of an environment, which may slow housing improvements for laboratory animals. Many review articles have addressed environmental enrichment for laboratory rats and mice (Rattus norvegicus and Mus musculus). We conducted a metareview of 29 review articles to assess how enrichment has been defined and what are commonly described as its goals or requirements. Recommendations from each article were summarised to illustrate the conditions generally considered suitable for laboratory rodents. While there is no consensus on alternative terminology, many articles acknowledged that the blanket use of the terms “enriched” and “enrichment” should be avoided. Environmental enrichment was most often conceptualised as a method to increase natural behaviour and improve animal welfare. Authors also commonly outlined perceived risks and requirements of environmental enrichment. We discuss these perceptions, make suggestions for future research, and advocate for the adoption of more specific and value-neutral terminology.
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Canedo A, Saiki P, Santos AL, Carneiro KDS, Souza AMD, Qualhato G, Brito RDS, Mello-Andrade F, Rocha TL. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) meets bioethics: the 10Rs ethical principles in research. CIÊNCIA ANIMAL BRASILEIRA 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/1809-6891v22e-70884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract Zebrafish (Danio rerio) is a tropical fish species widely used in research, worldwide. The development of genetically modified animals and the increasing number of zebrafish breeding facilities due to their emerging use in several research fields, opened room for new ethical challenges for research carried out with this species. It is necessary to raise the scientific community’s awareness of the ethical standards and laws in force, on animal research. Thus, the aim of the current study is to describe 10 Rs ethical principles by using zebrafish as model system in research. The classical 3 Rs concerning animal welfare, namely replacement, reduction and refinement; and the added 7 Rs related to scientific (registration, reporting, robustness, reproducibility and relevance) and conduct principles (responsibility, and respect) in zebrafish research are herein presented and critically discussed. The use of these 10 Rs by researchers, institutions and the Animal Ethics Committee is recommended to support regulations, decision-making about and the promotion of zebrafish health and welfare in research.
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Franks B, Gaffney LP, Graham C, Weary DM. Curiosity in zebrafish ( Danio rerio)? Behavioral responses to 30 novel objects. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:1062420. [PMID: 36896243 PMCID: PMC9988950 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1062420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Curiosity-the motivation to seek out information-has been studied widely across the animal kingdom. To investigate curiosity in zebrafish we presented 30 novel objects to groups of zebrafish housed in semi-naturalistic tanks (6 tanks; 10 fish/tank; 10-min presentations). During the first 100 s and final 100 s of each object's 10-min presentation period, we recorded each group's: (i) latency to approach the object, (ii) attraction to the object, (iii) social dynamics: agonistic behavior and group cohesion and coordination, and (iv) diving behavior, a stress response in zebrafish. Comparing these behaviors to a 100 s baseline period when no object was present, we tested for neophobia (avoidance of novelty), neophilia (overall attraction to novelty), sustained interest (prolonged attraction to at least some presentations), discriminant interest (certain objects eliciting more attention than others), habituation (loss of interest over time), and alterations to social and stress behaviors. Zebrafish groups readily approached all objects (1 s median latency), were neophilic throughout all object presentations, and showed systematic sustained interest only for some object presentations at the beginning of the study (object presentations 1-10). Over the course of the study, zebrafish also showed signs of habituation such that by the final ten object presentations (21-30), there were no signs of overall sustained interest. During the beginning of the study (object presentations 1-10), we also found evidence for specific object-driven interest, with object ID accounting for 11% of the variability in interest scores (p < 0.01), and object-driven interest corresponding to alterations in social behavior: decreased aggression (p < 0.02), increased group cohesion (p < 0.02), and increased group coordination (p < 0.05). By explicitly investigating curiosity in fish, this work reveals that under certain conditions, zebrafish voluntarily engage in cognitive stimulation opportunities. More work is needed to clarify what types of information zebrafish find most rewarding and how long-term exposure to such opportunities may affect fish welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Becca Franks
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, Animal Welfare Program, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Environmental Studies, New York University, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Leigh P Gaffney
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, Animal Welfare Program, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Fisheries Ecology and Marine Conservation Lab, Department of Biology, The University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Courtney Graham
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, Animal Welfare Program, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, The University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel M Weary
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, Animal Welfare Program, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Loss CM, Melleu FF, Domingues K, Lino-de-Oliveira C, Viola GG. Combining Animal Welfare With Experimental Rigor to Improve Reproducibility in Behavioral Neuroscience. Front Behav Neurosci 2021; 15:763428. [PMID: 34916915 PMCID: PMC8671008 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2021.763428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Cássio Morais Loss
- Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience Laboratory, Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM), National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq/CAPES/FAPESP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | | | - Karolina Domingues
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Cilene Lino-de-Oliveira
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas do Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil
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Buenhombre J, Daza-Cardona EA, Sousa P, Gouveia A. Different influences of anxiety models, environmental enrichment, standard conditions and intraspecies variation (sex, personality and strain) on stress and quality of life in adult and juvenile zebrafish: A systematic review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 131:765-791. [PMID: 34592257 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.09.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Antagonist and long-lasting environmental manipulations (EM) have successfully induced or reduced the stress responses and quality of life of zebrafish. For instance, environmental enrichment (EE) generally reduces anxiety-related behaviours and improves immunity, while unpredictable chronic stress (UCS) and aquarium-related stressors generate the opposite effects. However, there is an absence of consistency in outcomes for some EM, such as acute exposure to stressors, social enrichment and some items of structural enrichment. Therefore, considering intraspecies variation (sex, personality, and strain), increasing intervention complexity while improving standardisation of protocols and contemplating the possibility that EE may act as a mild stressor on a spectrum between too much (UCS) and too little (standard conditions) stress intensity or stimulation, would reduce the inconsistencies of these outcomes. It would also help explore the mechanism behind stress resilience and to standardise EM protocols. Thus, this review critically analyses and compares knowledge existing over the last decade concerning environmental manipulations for zebrafish and the influences that sex, strain, and personality may have on behavioural, physiological, and fitness-related responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jhon Buenhombre
- ICB Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Rua Augusto Correa 01, Belém, PA, Brazil.
| | | | - Pêssi Sousa
- ICB Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Rua Augusto Correa 01, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Amauri Gouveia
- ICB Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Rua Augusto Correa 01, Belém, PA, Brazil
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Jones NAR, Webster MM, Salvanes AGV. Physical enrichment research for captive fish: Time to focus on the DETAILS. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2021; 99:704-725. [PMID: 33942889 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.14773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Growing research effort has shown that physical enrichment (PE) can improve fish welfare and research validity. However, the inclusion of PE does not always result in positive effects and conflicting findings have highlighted the many nuances involved. Effects are known to depend on species and life stage tested, but effects may also vary with differences in the specific items used as enrichment between and within studies. Reporting fine-scale characteristics of items used as enrichment in studies may help to reveal these factors. We conducted a survey of PE-focused studies published in the last 5 years to examine the current state of methodological reporting. The survey results suggest that some aspects of enrichment are not adequately detailed. For example, the amount and dimensions of objects used as enrichment were frequently omitted. Similarly, the ecological relevance, or other justification, for enrichment items was frequently not made explicit. Focusing on ecologically relevant aspects of PE and increasing the level of detail reported in studies may benefit future work and we propose a framework with the acronym DETAILS (Dimensions, Ecological rationale, Timing of enrichment, Amount, Inputs, Lighting and Social environment). We outline the potential importance of each of the elements of this framework with the hope it may aid in the level of reporting and standardization across studies, ultimately aiding the search for more beneficial types of PE and the development of our understanding and ability to improve the welfare of captive fish and promote more biologically relevant behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick A R Jones
- Centre for Biological Diversity, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Mike M Webster
- Centre for Biological Diversity, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
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Ohnesorge N, Heinl C, Lewejohann L. Current Methods to Investigate Nociception and Pain in Zebrafish. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:632634. [PMID: 33897350 PMCID: PMC8061727 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.632634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain is an unpleasant, negative emotion and its debilitating effects are complex to manage. Mammalian models have long dominated research on nociception and pain, but there is increasing evidence for comparable processes in fish. The need to improve existing pain models for drug research and the obligation for 3R refinement of fish procedures facilitated the development of numerous new assays of nociception and pain in fish. The zebrafish is already a well-established animal model in many other research areas like toxicity testing, as model for diseases or regeneration and has great potential in pain research, too. Methods of electrophysiology, molecular biology, analysis of reflexive or non-reflexive behavior and fluorescent imaging are routinely applied but it is the combination of these tools what makes the zebrafish model so powerful. Simultaneously, observing complex behavior in free-swimming larvae, as well as their neuronal activity at the cellular level, opens new avenues for pain research. This review aims to supply a toolbox for researchers by summarizing current methods to study nociception and pain in zebrafish. We identify treatments with the best algogenic potential, be it chemical, thermal or electric stimuli and discuss options of analgesia to counter effects of nociception and pain by opioids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or local anesthetics. In addition, we critically evaluate these practices, identify gaps of knowledge and outline potential future developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils Ohnesorge
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), German Centre for the Protection of Laboratory Animals (Bf3R), Berlin, Germany
| | - Céline Heinl
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), German Centre for the Protection of Laboratory Animals (Bf3R), Berlin, Germany
| | - Lars Lewejohann
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), German Centre for the Protection of Laboratory Animals (Bf3R), Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Animal Welfare, Animal Behavior and Laboratory Animal Science, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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