DMSO induces major morphological and physiological alterations in zebrafish embryos

Area of Science:

• Developmental biology
• Toxicology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a versatile polar aprotic solvent utilized extensively in pharmaceutical research and biomedical studies.
• Zebrafish embryos are a key vertebrate model for developmental biology and toxicology research.
• Previous research indicated DMSO safety up to 1% in zebrafish developmental toxicity assays, but comprehensive effects remain uninvestigated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the morphological and physiological effects of various Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) concentrations on zebrafish development.
• To establish safe concentration limits and identify specific developmental alterations induced by DMSO.

Main Methods:

• High-resolution optical microscopy and real-time video-microscopy were employed to observe zebrafish embryos.
• Detailed analysis focused on whole embryo development, specific organs, and tissues.
• Exposure to a range of Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) concentrations was conducted.

Main Results:

• Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) concentrations exceeding 5% proved lethal to zebrafish embryos.
• Concentrations between 1% and 4% induced notable morphological and physiological changes, including tail curvature, altered heart rate and edema, and variations in somite size, myofibril alignment, melanocyte size, notochord, and swim bladder.
• Specific alterations in organogenesis and tissue development were documented.

Conclusions:

• This study provides the first detailed analysis of Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) effects on zebrafish development across different concentrations.
• Results highlight significant morphological and physiological impacts of DMSO, even at concentrations previously considered safe.
• Findings underscore the need for careful consideration of DMSO concentrations in both basic and applied research involving zebrafish models.