Bioethical and practical aspects of experimentation with zebrafish embryos and adults
Santiago, Magda ReginaFélix, Mariana Sandes
ABSTRACT Zebrafish, also known as 'peixe-zebra' and 'Paulistinha' in Brazil, have been increasingly used for studies in various areas of Medicine and Biology. This fish has several characteristics that make it more suitable for scientific experimentation than other animal models, such as a large number of embryos per mating (about 100 to 200 eggs), a short life cycle (about 2 years), development fast (60 to 90 days to have all organs and systems fully mature), sequenced genome, easy adult breeding, low maintenance cost, transparent eggs and embryos, making it possible to monitor their development. In this qualitative review we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using the zebrafish model (Danio rerio) in the embryo and adult life stages, considering the principle of the 3 R's (reduction, replacement and refinement) which are the basis of Bioethics applied to Animal Science Laboratory.
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