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Using the optokinetic response to study visual function of zebrafish
Published on: February 2, 2010
The optokinetic response in zebrafish and its applications
Ying-Yu Huang1, Stephan C F Neuhauss
1Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, Department of Biology, Zurich, Switzerland.
Frontiers in Bioscience : a Journal and Virtual Library
|November 6, 2007
Summary
The optokinetic response (OKR) stabilizes vision and is studied in zebrafish larvae. Genetic mutations affecting OKR reveal insights into visual pathway and sensory-motor control.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Vision Science
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- The optokinetic response (OKR) is a fundamental visual-motor reflex present in all vertebrates.
- OKR stabilizes the retinal image, crucial for high-resolution vision.
- Zebrafish are a valuable model for studying visual behavior due to genetic tractability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the properties of the optokinetic response (OKR).
- To focus on methodological aspects of measuring eye movements in larval zebrafish.
- To highlight the utility of OKR in genetic screens for visual pathway defects.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on OKR.
- Discussion of techniques for measuring eye movements in larval zebrafish.
- Analysis of genetic screening approaches using OKR.
Main Results:
- Zebrafish larvae exhibit a robust OKR.
- Genetic screens in zebrafish have identified mutations affecting the visual pathway.
- The 'belladonna' mutation demonstrates altered OKR due to optic chiasm misrouting.
Conclusions:
- The OKR is a powerful tool for dissecting visual processing and sensory-motor control in zebrafish.
- Zebrafish models facilitate the study of visual system development and function.
- Mutations affecting OKR provide detailed insights into neural circuit function.
