Zebrafish Neurodevelopment & Regeneration

Neurons on zebrafish
Transverse sections (B) across zebrafish adult brain (A). C, D, E, F expression of sox1a (red) in telencephalon (C, D), optic tectum (E), optic tectum/cerebellum (F). Neurons (G) and radial glial cells (H) in the zebrafish telencephalon. Neurons in zebrafish parenchyma (G) and radial glial cells (blue/green) at the ventricular zone (H). Olfactory bulb (ob), telencephalon (tel), optic tectum (ot).

We study how the nervous system develops, functions, and regenerates—focusing on how diverse types of neurons are generated and maintained. Our lab uses zebrafish as a primary model due to its genetic similarity to humans, transparency, and exceptional regenerative abilities. Our research centres on neurogenesis and regeneration, using the embryonic spinal cord and adult brain to explore how neurons form, differentiate, and recover after injury. We aim to decode the complex networks of transcriptional regulators (TRs) and cis-regulatory elements (CREs) that control gene expression during these processes. To do this, we apply cutting-edge techniques like CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, transgenic reporters, single-cell sequencing, and high-throughput genomics (e.g., RNA-seq, CAGE-seq, ATAC-seq). We also collaborate with chemists to identify natural and synthetic compounds that influence key signalling pathways (BMP, Notch, Shh) and explore molecules with photomodulatory activity for neuroregeneration. Ultimately, our goal is to uncover fundamental mechanisms of neuronal development and repair—laying the groundwork for future regenerative therapies and engineered neuronal tissues.

Expression of gata2a (red) and sox1a (green)
Expression of gata2a (red) and sox1a (green) in a zebrafish double transgenic line. The magnified region shows the expression of gata2a and sox1a in the interneurons of the zebrafish embryo spinal cord.

 

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