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Morphological score assignment guidelines for the dechorionated zebrafish teratogenicity assay
Julieta M Panzica-Kelly1, Cindy X Zhang, Tracy L Danberry
1Discovery Toxicology, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08534, USA. julie.panzica@bms.com
Birth Defects Research. Part B, Developmental and Reproductive Toxicology
|September 14, 2010
Summary
This study details a zebrafish morphological score system for teratogenicity testing. This system accurately identifies chemical teratogens and ranks their severity, aiding in developmental toxicity assessment.
Area of Science:
- Developmental toxicology
- Zebrafish embryo models
- Chemical safety assessment
Background:
- A previous study developed a zebrafish teratogenicity assay with 87% concordance for identifying teratogens and non-teratogens.
- The assay uses dechorionated AB strain zebrafish embryos.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the detailed morphological score system used in the zebrafish teratogenicity assay.
- To characterize adverse effects and determine the no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL).
Main Methods:
- Utilizing a dechorionated zebrafish embryo culture teratogenicity assay.
- Employing a detailed morphological score system to assess abnormalities.
- Evaluating multiple structures and organ systems for teratogenic effects.
Main Results:
- The morphological assessment evaluates most structures and organ systems.
- The system grades the relative severity of observed abnormalities.
- Tissue-specific teratogenicity information is provided.
Conclusions:
- The morphological score system shows good concordance with in vivo findings.
- This system aids in identifying tissue-specific teratogenicity.
- Compounds can be ranked by the severity of malformations induced.
