ZEBRAFISH AS AN ANIMAL MODEL FOR ALBINISM
DISORDERS
Ana-Maria DANILA1,
Afef BLAITI2, Alin
CIOBICA1,3,4
1 Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology,
Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, Bd. Carol I no. 20A, 700505 Iasi,
Romania
2 Faculty of Science, Carthage University,
Zarzouna, Bizerte
3 Academy of Romanian Scientists, Str.
Ilfov no. 3, Sector 5, 050044 Bucharest, Romania
4 Preclinical Department, Apollonia
University, Păcurari Street 11, 700511 Iasi, Romania
Coresponding author: Blaiti Afef, Faculty of Science, Carthage University, Zarzouna, Bizerte
Abstract. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) is a
relevant model for studying many diseases, including the melanocyte-related
disorders. In this review of melanocyte literature, we discuss current
knowledge about different forms of albinism and the potential of the zebrafish
model to find new mechanisms and treatments. Melanin is produced in a process
called melanogenesis. This, if altered, leads to diseases such as albinism.
Albinism causes an increased risk of skin cancer. Zebrafish are used to study
pigment disorders, due to their high fecundity, visible development of melanin
in melanophores (melanocytes in mammals) from 24 h post-fertilization, and
preserved melanogenesis pathways. In this case, we looked for developmental
pathways in zebrafish melanophores and mammalian melanocytes. In addition, we
summarized advances in understanding pigment cell disease and evidence
supporting the potent potential of using zebrafish to better understand the
management of albinism.
Keywords: Albinism, zebrafish,
melanocytes, melanin.
DOI 10.56082/annalsarscibio.2023.2.108
