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Auditory Disease Models
Hearing loss and auditory disease represent a global health challenge, compounded in aquatic environments by increasing anthropogenic noise pollution, which requires precise, translational research tools. BioVenic specializes in leveraging the zebrafish model, a particle-motion hearing specialist, to overcome the accessibility limitations of mammalian inner ears. We provide state-of-the-art genetic modification, high-resolution in vivo imaging, and standardized acoustic modeling to generate highly predictive auditory disease models.
Aquatic animals, particularly the zebrafish (Danio rerio), serve as indispensable models for auditory disease research due to the remarkable evolutionary conservation of their mechanosensory systems. The inner ear structure contains hair cells fundamentally similar to those found in mammals, with a shared reliance on conserved synaptic components and signaling molecules. Crucially, the external Lateral Line System (LLS) is composed of superficial neuromasts containing these same hair cells, offering unparalleled visual and physical access. This accessibility permits real-time, in vivo study of development, damage, and regeneration. By capitalizing on this system, researchers can observe critical pathological processes, like noise-induced ribbon synapse loss, without invasive procedures, providing a high-fidelity window into human sensorineural defects.
Fig.1 Zebrafish hair cells and ribbons synapses.1,2
The zebrafish platform offers distinct biological and practical advantages over traditional models, making it superior for high-throughput discovery and translational research into complex auditory disorders. These benefits stem from the inherent accessibility and regenerative capacity of its mechanosensory system.
BioVenic offers a fully integrated platform providing end-to-end services for aquatic auditory disease research, detailed across five core offerings:
| Service | Technology/Process | Target Platform |
| Genetic Model Generation | Gene editing and specific promoter-driven transgenesis | Zebrafish Embryos/Larvae (Genetic Deafness, AS Predisposition) |
| Acquired Disease Modeling | Controlled acoustic exposure (NIHL) and ototoxic dosing (e.g., aminoglycosides) | Zebrafish Larvae (Synaptopathy, Irreversible Hair Cell Loss) |
| Functional Phenotyping | Auditory Evoked Potential (AEP) and Startle Response Audiometry | Larval and Adult Zebrafish (Accurate Hearing Thresholds) |
| Cellular Damage Assays | Live in vivo fluorescent imaging (Ribeye/Myosin VIIa staining) | Lateral Line System (LLS) Neuromasts (Synapse Density and Hair Cell Survival) |
| Translational Data Integration | Population Consequences of Disturbance (PCoD) frameworks | Data Integration and Predictive Ecological Modeling |
BioVenic's platform integrates all five core services, specializing in Genetic Model Generation and Acquired Disease Modeling using controlled acoustic exposure or toxins. We perform Functional Phenotyping with AEP and highly specific Cellular Damage Assays using live fluorescent imaging of ribbon synapses. All findings are connected to real-world impact through our Translational Data Integration and PCoD frameworks.
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Choosing BioVenic means partnering with experts in precise genetic engineering and high-resolution auditory phenotyping. Our dedication to standardized, translational models ensures robust data to validate your therapeutic hypothesis. Contact us to receive a quote and discuss how our aquatic models can advance your auditory research goals.
References
Our products and services are for research use only and cannot be used for any clinical purposes.