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Electroretinogram Analysis of the Visual Response in Zebrafish Larvae
Published on: March 16, 2015
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Electroretinogram analysis of the visual response in zebrafish larvae
Jared D Chrispell1, Tatiana I Rebrik2, Ellen R Weiss3
1Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Journal of Visualized Experiments : Jove
|April 14, 2015
Summary
The electroretinogram (ERG) measures zebrafish retinal function, specifically cone vision in larvae. This method adapts existing equipment for studying gene-edited or pharmacologically treated zebrafish visual responses.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Ophthalmology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- The electroretinogram (ERG) is a key noninvasive technique for assessing retinal function.
- Zebrafish are a valuable vertebrate model for studying visual development and function due to genetic tractability.
- Larval zebrafish retinas (5-10 dpf) primarily exhibit functional cone photoreceptors, making them ideal for studying cone vision.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail a protocol for measuring visual function in larval zebrafish using ERG.
- To demonstrate the adaptability of standard electrophysiology equipment for zebrafish research.
- To provide a method for assessing cone visual function in genetically modified or pharmacologically treated zebrafish.
Main Methods:
- Utilized standard anesthesia, micromanipulation, and stereomicroscopy techniques common in zebrafish research.
- Employed standard electrophysiology equipment and a low-light camera for precise microelectrode placement on the larval cornea.
- Adapted a commercially available ERG stimulator/recorder designed for mice for use with zebrafish.
Main Results:
- Successfully established a protocol for ERG measurements in larval zebrafish.
- Demonstrated the utility of ERG for assaying cone visual function in zebrafish modified with morpholino oligonucleotides and genome engineering techniques (ZFNs, TALENs, CRISPR/Cas9).
- Showcased the ability to investigate the molecular basis of the photoresponse by leveraging the penetration of pharmacological agents in zebrafish larvae.
Conclusions:
- Zebrafish ERG is an effective method for evaluating cone visual function in vivo.
- The described protocol is adaptable for various research objectives, including the study of genetic and pharmacological manipulations.
- This method facilitates the study of visual system development and function in a widely used model organism.
