Molecular mechanism and physiological regulation of trace metals and ions in fish

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Maintaining the homeostasis of trace metals and ions in the body is fundamental to the survival of all organisms including fish. The overall goal of this research proposal is to understand: i) the processes that are involved in maintaining essential trace metals and ionic balance in fish, and ii) how these processes are affected by environmental changes. The proposed research will investigate the pathways that regulate the uptake and systemic handling of zinc and iron in the model organism zebrafish. We will also exploit the Indian medaka as a brackish model system to understand the molecular basis of environmental acclimation and physiological compensation. A multidisciplinary approach will be employed, integrating molecular physiology, endocrinology and functional genetics. This state-of-the-art strategy will facilitate the identification of the precise molecular mechanisms that underlie the physiological regulation of trace metals and ions. Advancing this fundamental knowledge will be an important contribution to aquatic biology, environmental physiology, as well as to commercial fish culture and development.