TitleReview of diseases and health management in zebrafish Danio rerio (Hamilton 1822) in research facilities.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2020
AuthorsKent, ML, Sanders, JL, Spagnoli, ST, Al-Samarrie, CE, Murray, KN
JournalJ Fish Dis
Volume43
Issue6
Pagination637-650
Date Published2020 Jun
ISSN1365-2761
KeywordsAnimals, Animals, Laboratory, Communicable Disease Control, Fish Diseases, Oregon, Research, Zebrafish
Abstract

The use of zebrafish (Danio rerio) in biomedical research has expanded at a tremendous rate over the last two decades. Along with increases in laboratories using this model, we are discovering new and important diseases. We review here the important pathogens and diseases based on some 20 years of research and findings from our diagnostic service at the NIH-funded Zebrafish International Resource Center. Descriptions of the present status of biosecurity programmes and diagnostic and treatment approaches are included. The most common and important diseases and pathogens are two parasites, Pseudoloma neurophilia and Pseudocapillaria tomentosa, and mycobacteriosis caused by Mycobacterium chelonae, M. marinum and M. haemophilum. Less common but deadly diseases are caused by Edwardsiella ictaluri and infectious spleen and kidney necrosis virus (ISKNV). Hepatic megalocytosis and egg-associated inflammation and fibroplasia are common, apparently non-infectious, in zebrafish laboratories. Water quality diseases include supersaturation and nephrocalcinosis. Common neoplasms are spindle cell sarcomas, ultimobranchial tumours, spermatocytic seminomas and a small-cell carcinoma that is caused by a transmissible agent. Despite the clear biosecurity risk, researchers continue to use fish from pet stores, and here, we document two novel coccidia associated with significant lesions in zebrafish from one of these stores.

DOI10.1111/jfd.13165
Alternate JournalJ Fish Dis
PubMed ID32291793
PubMed Central IDPMC7253333
Grant ListP40 OD011021 / OD / NIH HHS / United States
R24 OD010998 / OD / NIH HHS / United States
R24OD010998 / / NIH Office of Research Infrastructure Programs /
P40OD01 1021 / / NIH Office of Research Infrastructure Programs /