The rapid increase in information about genes and their associations with human diseases has highlighted the need for model organisms suitable for genetic manipulation and drug testing. The zebrafish is a valuable vertebrate animal model that offers many advantages, including the relative ease of husbandry and genetic manipulation and the capacity for high-throughput screens. In this review, we describe the zebrafish as a model for paediatric diseases, with particular emphasis on haematopoietic and infectious diseases.
Conclusion: The zebrafish has become an established vertebrate model in which to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of various human diseases.
© 2012 The Author(s)/Acta Paediatrica © 2012 Foundation Acta Paediatrica.