Review on zebra fish as an alternative animal model for neurological studies

Abstract

Zebrafish (Danio rerio) have emerged as a powerful alternative animal model in neurological research due to their unique combination of genetic, anatomical, and physiological characteristics. Their transparent embryonic development, high genetic homology with humans, and well-characterized nervous system make them invaluable for studying neurological diseases and disorders. Zebrafish offer practical advantages such as rapid reproduction, cost-effectiveness, and suitability for high-throughput screening. They have been extensively utilized to investigate neurodevelopmental disorders, neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, and epilepsy. Moreover, their amenability to genetic manipulation enables precise modeling of human neurological conditions. Behavioral assays in zebrafish provide insights into cognitive, motor, and emotional functions, which can be quantified to study disease phenotypes and therapeutic interventions. Recent advances in imaging techniques, such as live imaging of neuronal activity using calcium indicators, have further enhanced their utility. This review highlights the advantages of zebrafish as an alternative model system, discusses key findings from zebrafish-based neurological studies, and outlines challenges such as translating findings to mammalian systems. By consolidating current knowledge, this article emphasizes the pivotal role of zebrafish in advancing our understanding of neurological mechanisms and in developing novel treatments for brain disorders.