Zebrafish Aging Model Customization Services

As life expectancy increases, there will be a need to maintain a healthy state for aging individuals. Current knowledge of types and durations of potential anti-aging therapies is quite limited. Recently the zebrafish (Danio rerio) has emerged as a promising model for understanding the cognitive and neurobiological changes during aging, as well as its use with potential anti-aging interventions. Like humans, this model organism ages gradually and displays similar behavioral properties and social characteristics. In addition, there is a wealth of molecular and genetic tools to uncover the cellular mechanisms that contribute to age-related cognitive declines.

Fig. 1 Advantages of zebrafish models for aging research. (Saleem S and Kannan RR, 2018)

CD BioSciences offers a comprehensive suite of customizable zebrafish aging models and related services. Our team of seasoned experts has developed innovative strategies to interrogate the complexities of aging, from lifespan extension to age-related disease modeling.

Customization Options for Zebrafish Aging Models

Manipulating the aging process in zebrafish models

We have developed a comprehensive suite of techniques to induce and manipulate the aging process in zebrafish models. Our team has meticulously formulated high-calorie, high-fat, or nutrient-deficient diets that can trigger premature senescence and the onset of age-related phenotypes in zebrafish. We also offer the ability to induce aging in zebrafish models by pharmacological means, such as treatment with rapamycin.

Genetic modification in zebrafish models

Using reverse genetic screens such as the transposon-mediated insertional mutagenesis (Tol₂) or the CRISPR-Cas9 system, we can generate genetically engineered zebrafish that exhibit accelerated or extended lifespans. Our services allow for the targeted modulation of key longevity pathways, such as sirtuins, insulin/IGF-1 signaling, and cellular senescence. In adults and embryos, another useful genetic tool available in zebrafish we use is the injection of both morpholino antisense oligonucleotides and in vitro transcribed capped mRNA. The morpholinos cause transient silencing of a specific gene of interest and are an essential tool for understanding the specific role of that gene.

Analysis of age-related phenotypes

We provide extensive services for the detailed analysis of physical function, cognitive abilities, tissue pathology, and biomarkers of aging in zebrafish models. Our team has established a suite of assays and imaging methods to quantify these age-related changes, enabling our clients to observe the temporal progression of the aging process.

Modeling age-related diseases using zebrafish models

Leveraging the versatility of the zebrafish, CD BioSciences offers the ability to develop customized disease models that recapitulate the age-dependent onset and progression of various pathologies. From neurodegenerative to cardiovascular diseases, our customized zebrafish models allow for the integration of genetic, environmental, and pharmacological factors to faithfully mimic the complex etiologies of age-related diseases.

Applications of Zebrafish Models in Drug Development

At CD BioSciences, we recognize the immense potential of zebrafish models in accelerating the drug discovery and development process, particularly in the field of aging-related diseases.

• Pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) evaluation. Our team can perform detailed studies on the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination (ADME) of candidate compounds in zebrafish, providing crucial insights into the bioavailability of compounds, tissue distribution, and target engagement. By integrating advanced analytical techniques, such as mass spectrometry and in vivo imaging, we can generate comprehensive PK/PD profiles to inform dose selection and optimization.
• Toxicity screening and safety assessment. Our high-throughput screening platform allows us to systematically evaluate the dose-dependent effects of candidate drugs on various endpoints, including mortality, developmental abnormalities, organ dysfunction, and behavioral alterations. By leveraging the optical transparency and rapid development of zebrafish embryos, we can help clients quickly identify potential toxicities and screen for compounds with improved safety profiles.
• Organ-specific toxicity assessments. Our team offers clients reliable assays to assess the impact of candidate compounds on the function and integrity of various organ systems, including the cardiovascular, nervous, hepatic, and renal systems.

With decades of experience, innovative approaches, and advanced technologies, CD BioSciences is committed to providing our clients with customizable zebrafish aging models. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us or make an online inquiry.

References

1. Saleem S, Kannan RR. Zebrafish: an emerging real-time model system to study Alzheimer's disease and neurospecific drug discovery. Cell Death Discov, 2018, 4: 45.
2. Dilan CB, et al. Zebrafish aging models and possible interventions. Recent Advances in Zebrafish Researches, 2018.