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Musculoskeletal Disease Models
Musculoskeletal diseases (MSDs) present a complex challenge in drug discovery, requiring robust, scalable, and translationally relevant model systems. Aquatic animal models, particularly Zebrafish (Danio rerio) and Medaka (Oryzias latipes), have emerged as indispensable tools due to their genetic tractability and physiological conservation with humans. BioVenic leverages advanced genomic editing, high-resolution imaging, and automated screening platforms to maximize the power of these models. We provide precise disease models that accurately recapitulate human pathology, offering a rapid path to therapeutic target identification and validation.
The use of aquatic vertebrates, particularly teleost fish, fundamentally transforms musculoskeletal disease modeling due to their evolutionary conservation. The cellular processes - involving osteoblasts, osteoclasts, chondrocytes - and the expression of key regulatory genes are profoundly similar to those in humans. The unique feature of external embryogenesis and larval transparency allows for non-invasive, high-resolution visualization of skeletal and muscular formation in real-time, providing an unparalleled ability to track disease progression and therapeutic response in vivo. Furthermore, the ability to observe both intramembranous and endochondral ossification processes in a single, accessible organism provides key advantages over mammalian systems.
Fig.1 General overview of the zebrafish adult skeleton.1,2
The scientific advantages of using aquatic models for MSD research are profound, enabling comprehensive studies across various applications, from orthopedics to myology.
BioVenic provides comprehensive zebrafish models for both skeletal and muscular diseases, employing validated approaches that are crucial for accelerating drug discovery and efficacy testing.
Osteoporosis (Dexamethasone-Induced)
This chemically induced model mimics systemic bone loss and is validated by precise detection methods, including MicroCT scanning for quantitative Bone Mineral Density (BMD) analysis and Alizarin Red staining for assessing calcified matrix.
Osteogenesis Imperfecta (COL1A1 Gene Mutation)
A precision genetic model created using gene editing to target the equivalent human COL1A1 gene mutation. Detection involves high-resolution imaging of developmental skeletal defects and fracture susceptibility testing.
Osteoarthritis (Sodium Iodoacetate-Induced)
Used to model joint degradation and inflammation. Phenotypic analysis is conducted through histological methods and quantitative assessment of cartilage loss via Alcian Blue staining.
Muscle Atrophy (Prednisolone-Induced)
Simulates muscle wasting conditions like sarcopenia. Efficacy is tested using Automated Behavioral Systems that provide objective, statistically robust quantification of swimming performance and endurance metrics.
Professional Team
Customized Services
Innovative Technology
Efficient Services
Choose BioVenic for unparalleled precision, speed, and scalability in musculoskeletal research. Our integrated aquatic platform and commitment to scientific excellence ensure rapid translation of insights into viable solutions. Contact us and submit your custom requirements to receive a personalized quote and accelerate your MSD pipeline.
References
Our products and services are for research use only and cannot be used for any clinical purposes.