Device for Automating Zebrafish Processing

描述(申请人提供)：虽然传统的样品处理方法可以用于斑马鱼的加工，但适当的分析工具的开发并没有跟上这种动物模型在化合物筛选中的越来越多的使用。在这项研究中，我们建议开发一种自动化斑马鱼加工的设备。斑马鱼胚胎可以渗透到小分子中，为给药和活性染料染色提供了容易的途径。小分子，包括多肽、染料和药物，可以简单地溶解在鱼水中。其他优势还包括：它们体积小，易于维护和繁育，生产率高。使用斑马鱼作为替代动物模型进行药物筛选，可以大大加快药物筛选过程，降低成本，并提供比基于细胞的分析更准确的结果。目前有200多个核心斑马鱼水产养殖设施(三分之二在美国)，由于开发了模块化养殖箱，卫星实验室的数量正在迅速增加。这个市场高度集中，产品可以通过一支小型销售队伍或通过分销商销售。 公共卫生相关性：斑马鱼已被证明是评估化合物安全性、毒性和有效性的预测性动物模型。虽然传统的样品处理方法可以适用于斑马鱼的加工，但适当的分析工具的开发并没有跟上这种动物模型在化合物筛选中越来越多地使用的步伐。在这项研究中，我们建议开发一种自动化斑马鱼加工的设备。

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Although conventional sample handling can be adapted for use with processing zebrafish, development of appropriate analytical tools has not kept pace with the increasing use of this animal model for compound screening. In this research, we propose to develop a device to automate zebrafish processing. Zebrafish embryos, which are permeable to small molecules, provide easy access for drug administration and vital dye staining. Small molecules, including peptides, dyes and drugs can be simply dissolved in fish water. Additional advantages include: their small size, easy maintenance and breeding, and high productivity. Use of zebrafish as an alternative animal model for drug screening can greatly accelerate the drug screening process, decrease costs, and provide more accurate results than cell-based assays. There are currently more than 200 core zebrafish aquaculture facilities (2/3 are in the US), and the number of satellite labs is increasing rapidly due to development of modular breeding tanks. This market is highly concentrated and products can be sold using a small sales force or through distributors. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Zebrafish has been shown to be a predictive animal model for assessing compound safety, toxicity, and efficacy. Although conventional sample handling can be adapted for use with processing zebrafish, development of appropriate analytical tools has not kept pace with the increasing use of this animal model for compound screening. In this research, we propose to develop a device to automate zebrafish processing.