Teaching Fin Regeneration Using a Dominant Negative Receptor

Area of Science:

• Developmental Biology
• Genetics
• Educational Science

Background:

• Zebrafish are increasingly used as model organisms in educational settings.
• Understanding tissue regeneration and its genetic regulation is crucial in biology.
• Previous research highlights the role of fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) in developmental processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and implement a laboratory experiment for students to investigate tissue regeneration in zebrafish.
• To demonstrate the effects of manipulating fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) signaling on caudal fin regeneration.
• To enhance students' understanding of gene function and deductive reasoning through a hands-on and literature-based approach.

Main Methods:

• Students performed caudal fin amputations on zebrafish.
• A dominant-negative fgfr1 transgene was activated using heat shock to observe its effects.
• Students conducted visual observations of fin regeneration over one week.
• A literature-based component required students to research genes involved in regeneration inhibition.

Main Results:

• Observed differences in caudal fin regeneration between zebrafish with activated and unactivated fgfr1 transgenes.
• Students successfully applied deductive reasoning to infer gene functions related to regeneration.
• The experiment provided a tangible model for understanding gene-environment interactions in development.

Conclusions:

• The experiment effectively illustrates the role of FGFR1 signaling in zebrafish fin regeneration.
• Combining hands-on activities with literature research enhances student engagement and learning in developmental biology.
• This model organism-based experiment fosters critical thinking and practical skills in aspiring scientists.