PUBLICATION

An Open-Source Programmable Interface for Sensory-Motor Biotests with Zebrafish (Danio rerio)

Authors
Bai, Y., Henry, J., Kreuder, F., Mawdsley, D., Kaslin, J., Wlodkowic, D.
ID
ZDB-PUB-240110-14
Date
2024
Source
Zebrafish   21(1): 48-52 (Journal)
Registered Authors
Kaslin, Jan, Mawdsley, David
Keywords
DIY, automation, behavior, biotest, sensory–motor, startle response, zebrafish
MeSH Terms
  • Animals
  • Behavior, Animal/physiology
  • Larva/physiology
  • Perciformes*
  • Software
  • Zebrafish*/physiology
PubMed
38193768 Full text @ Zebrafish
Abstract
Assessment of animals' sensory-motor functions requires precise and electronically controlled stimuli to induce and quantify specific behavioral phenotypes. However, accessible and inexpensive tools for conducting diverse sensory-motor biotests with fish are lacking. In this work, we present an open-source software and hardware interface that enables automated delivery of three independent and fully programmable stimuli for behavioral bioassays. We demonstrate the proof-of-concept application of this low-cost technology in establishing reproducible fear responses using a mechanical tap-startle stimulus in larval zebrafish. This response is characterized by a sudden burst of motion in response to a nondirectional mechanical stimulus delivered to the fish chamber. We propose that the simplicity and flexibility of this interface offer innovative opportunities for studying sensory-motor functions in various fields, including neurobiology, neuropharmacology, neurotoxicology, and aquatic ecotoxicology.
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Human Disease / Model
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Antibodies
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Mapping