Device for Automating Zebrafish Processing

描述（由申请人提供）：尽管传统的样品处理方法可以用于处理斑马鱼，但适当的分析工具的开发并没有跟上这种动物模型用于化合物筛选的日益增长的步伐。在本研究中，我们建议开发一种自动化处理斑马鱼的装置。斑马鱼的胚胎可以渗透到小分子中，为药物管理和重要的染料染色提供了方便。包括多肽、染料和药物在内的小分子可以简单地溶解在鱼水中。其他优点包括：它们的体积小，易于维护和繁殖，生产力高。使用斑马鱼作为药物筛选的替代动物模型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300多个核心斑马鱼养殖设施（2/3在美国），由于模块化育种架的发展，卫星实验室的数量正在迅速增加。这个市场高度集中，产品可以通过小型销售队伍或分销商销售。

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 300 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 racks. 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.