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Zebrafish models have recently been gaining momentum in the study of human disease. These organisms have had their genomes completely sequenced, and have shown a 70% similarity to that of the human genome. Zebrafish biology possesses all the characteristics that make them prime models of human disease. Due to their ease of handling, rapid breeding and minimal maintenance requirements, these organisms are often more appealing to researchers than their mammal counterparts. Sequences of DNA that are known to cause various diseases in humans can be “knocked-out” or manipulated in Zebrafish models to exhibit similar phenotypes. This can aid researchers in better understanding the human genome and research new treatments for a variety of human diseases. AGADA Biosciences is working with Dalhousie University to utilize their zebrafish facilities for the development of orphan drugs to treat a variety of neuromuscular diseases.

Related Information

Berman, Jason. “Berman Zebrafish Lab.” bermanzebrafishlaboratory.pediatrics.dal.ca/.