Human aging is a fundamental biological process that leads to functional decline, increased risk of various diseases, and ultimately death. Some of the basic biological mechanisms underlying human aging are shared with other organisms; therefore, animal models have been invaluable in providing key mechanistic and molecular insights into the common biological basis of aging. The short-lived African turquoise killifish (Nothobranchius furzeri) displays many of the hallmarks of mammalian aging despite having an exceptionally short lifespan (3-9 months); therefore, this tiny but mighty fish model has recently become the focus of a wide range of aging-related studies.
Fig. 1 Captive strains and the life cycle of the turquoise killifish. (Kim Y, et al., 2016)
CD BioSciences offers our clients a comprehensive suite of killifish aging model customization options to meet the unique needs of their research objectives. Our services become robust tools to help clients uncover the underlying mechanisms of the aging process.
We use several techniques to control and manipulate the lifespan of killifish, allowing our clients to explore the complex interplay between nutrients, temperature, and drugs that influence the aging process. For instance, our team of scientists has characterized the optimal parameters for killifish husbandry, including factors such as water quality, temperature, and diets. By carefully manipulating these environmental variables, we can induce lifespan extension or shortening in killifish, allowing for the systematic investigation of how specific environmental factors contribute to longevity.
Our facilities are equipped to perform analyses of killifish at different stages of their lifespan. Old age in these short-lived killifish is also associated with abnormal spinal curvature, visual impairment, deterioration of fin structure, reduced spontaneous locomotor activity, and learning difficulties. From detailed lifespan studies and age-related physiological changes to behavioral assessments and biomarker identification, our team of experts will provide clients with a wealth of data to inform their research.
We employ two methods to modify the turquoise killifish genome, including random genome integration using the Tol2 DNA transposase and targeted genome editing using the CRISPR/Cas9 nuclease. We use microinjection of RNA and DNA combinations into the one-cell stage embryo for genome editing. Leveraging our expertise in genetic engineering, we offer customized services for generating transgenic killifish lines, targeted knockouts, and other genetic modifications to investigate the role of specific genes or pathways in the aging process.
At CD BioSciences, we assist clients in developing specialized killifish models to explore the pathways and mechanisms underlying age-related cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease, and other neurodegenerative diseases.
As a provider of killifish aging model customization services, CD BioSciences is committed to empowering our clients to accelerate their aging research and drive discovery. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us or make an online inquiry.
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All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.
CD BioScience is a contract research organization focused on aging research, specializing in providing research on aging mechanisms, preclinical drug discovery and development, and the development of healthcare and skincare products.
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