More Disease Modeling Services
Epilepsy is a complex neurological disorder marked by recurrent seizures resulting from abnormal brain activity. Recognized as the fourth predominant neurological disorder by the Epilepsy Foundation, it can affect anyone but is particularly prevalent among children and older adults.
Zebrafish have become an increasingly popular model organism for studying epilepsy due to their strong resemblance to human brain development and functionalities. Notably, many genes tied to human epilepsy find parallels in zebrafish, opening avenues for deeper insights and groundbreaking therapies.
InVivo Biosystems: Pioneers in Genomic Research
Compound testing using a chemical model or genetically modified zebrafish model.
Models
Behavior Analysis
Compound Screening
Genetic Pathways (RNASeq)
Genetic Model
Chemical Model
In addition to being able to create custom genetic models, we have a catalog of already validated epilepsy models for you to choose from here:
Study patient genetic variants using genetically modified zebrafish models.
We use the zebrafish as an in vivo model to measure the functional effects of patient-derived genetic variation. In this way, human genetic variants identified in the clinic are quantitatively and qualitatively connected to model animal phenotypes.
Illustration of a successful precise point mutation of stxbp 1a in zebrafish. stxbp1a is a highly conserved zebrafish ortholog of human STXBP1 (87% identity). Using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, we were able to precisely generate a benign patient mutation at the conserved amino acid residue (CCC>CTG, p.P94L).
Modeling STXBP1 Patient Variants In Zebrafish. Precision genome editing targeting stxbp1 – a zebrafish ortholog of human the gene syntaxin-binding protein 1 (STXBP1) was used to generate two precise knock-in models of patient variants to assess differences in phenotypes in comparison to the established loss of function mutants. Download the poster.
Loss of function results in reduced swimming activity phenotype. Homozygous stxbp1a S42P mutants partially reproduce published stxbp1a loss of function movement phenotype, as suggested by single larval recordings in a 96-well plate locomotion assay where homozygous S42P mutant larvae trend towards reduced activity in baseline and PTZ-treated conditions (right panel; PTZ = pentylenetetrazole). Download the poster.
Comparing age-matched animals from various groups, we gather vital behavioral data in response to stimuli like light/dark cycling and vibrations. Our software identifies, tracks, and quantifies multiple aspects of their behavior. Our metrics encompass:
Light/dark larvae locomotion per minute. Our larval movement assay tests for behavioral response to stimuli, such as light or dark periods. In this example, zebrafish treated with CuSO4 respond more significantly to a dark stimulus than their untreated siblings.
Light/dark larvae locomotion per minute. Our larval movement assay tests for behavioral response to stimuli, such as light or dark periods. In this example, zebrafish treated with CuSO4 respond more significantly to a dark stimulus than their untreated siblings.
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Built on a robust portfolio of CRISPR genome editing patents, InVivo Biosystems has established a comprehensive preclinical discovery and development platform. By leveraging alternative models and proprietary methods, we accelerate go-to-market timelines for pharmaceutical companies and beyond.