Genetic Analysis of the Touch Response in Zebrafish (Danio rerio)

Both mammals and zebrafish possess mechanosensory neurons that detect tactile sensation via free nerve endings. However, the basis for mechanotransduction and the unique cellular properties of these sensory neurons are poorly understood. We review the advantages of zebrafish for studies of the biological mechanisms involved in touch sensitivity. Importantly, Granato and colleagues (1996) demonstrated that a simple touch assay efficiently recovers mutations that affect sensory neurons.