Zebrafish Model for Drug Discovery and Screening

Abstract

The zebrafish as a preclinical drug development model is discussed considering different aspects. 3-Rs Replacement, Reduction and Refinement related to zebrafish for drug discovery are discussed. The strength of zebrafish as a model for preclinical drug development is highlighted. The different aspects of drug development considering the genetics of zebrafish are well covered. Phenotype-based drug development, structure-activity relationship, target-based drug development and toxicities related to zebrafish are elaborated with suitable examples. Organs like heart, liver, intestines, kidney, CNS, haemopoietic system, endocrine system and their drug development-related aspects like pharmacokinetics and drug toxicities in zebrafish are elaborated. Separate topic is dedicated to cancer drug development using zebrafish. Drug resistance related to P-glycoprotein and other related mechanisms is also covered. Practical limitations in use of zebrafish as preclinical drug development models are addressed.