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Embryonic Lead Acetate Exposure Induces Seizure-like Activity in Zebrafish Larvae.
Angela Gyamfi1, William A Cisneros1, Priyadharshini Manikandan1
1Department of Biology, Indiana University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
Biomedicines
|May 4, 2026
Summary
Embryonic exposure to lead acetate in zebrafish caused physical deformities and seizure-like behaviors, highlighting lead
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Environmental Toxicology
Background:
- Lead remains a public health concern despite regulations due to its persistence.
- Zebrafish are a valuable model for studying neurodevelopmental disorders and environmental toxins.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the neurodevelopmental effects of embryonic lead exposure in zebrafish.
- To assess lead's impact on morphology and behavior during early development.
Main Methods:
- Zebrafish embryos were exposed to lead acetate (PbAc) from 6 to 48 hours post-fertilization.
- Morphological and behavioral assessments were conducted at 3 and 7 days post-fertilization.
- Electrophysiological recordings (local field potentials) were used to measure neural activity.
Main Results:
- Lead exposure resulted in teratogenic effects, including spinal and craniofacial deformities.
- Seizure-like circle swimming behavior was observed in lead-exposed larvae, particularly under light.
- Electrophysiology confirmed heightened neural activity indicative of seizure susceptibility.
Conclusions:
- Embryonic lead exposure induces morphological defects and seizure susceptibility in zebrafish.
- Lead exhibits neurotoxic potential during early development, affecting neural excitability.
- Photosensitive, seizure-like behaviors and elevated neural activity are key findings.
