At InVivo Biosystems, our expertise in zebrafish is deeply intertwined with the rich legacy of research that began right here in Eugene, Oregon. As a company headquartered in this vibrant scientific community, we not only benefit from the University of Oregon’s pioneering work in zebrafish research but also serve as a valuable resource, contributing to the ongoing advancements in academic and preclinical research.
- Centered in the Hub of Zebrafish Research: InVivo Biosystems, based in Eugene, builds on the University of Oregon's legacy of zebrafish research, serving as a major pillar in ongoing advancements in zebrafish innovation.
- Translational Medicine Leadership: The InVivo Biosystems RapidGen™ platform leverages the zebrafish to offer a fast, human relevant, and ethical alternative in drug development.
- Collaborative Strength: Partnering closely with the University of Oregon and guided by esteemed UO alumni who have joined InVivo Biosystems, we play a pivotal role in advancing zebrafish research and revolutionizing preclinical development.
The University of Oregon's Legacy of Zebrafish Research
The story of zebrafish research in Eugene began in 1981 when geneticist and University of Oregon professor George Streisinger published a groundbreaking paper detailing a new method to clone a vertebrate—15 years before the famous cloning of Dolly the sheep. This work was the culmination of efforts that started in the late 1960s when Streisinger and his colleague Charline Walker brought the first zebrafish into their lab from a local pet store. Streisinger’s successful cloning of zebrafish established them as a powerful model organism for genetic research, positioning the University of Oregon as a leading center for molecular genetics research.
Zebrafish were chosen for their genetic similarities to humans—approximately 85% of human disease-associated genes are present and function similarly in zebrafish. This genetic overlap, combined with the ease of studying zebrafish, makes them an ideal model for research that can be readily translated to human biology.
Supporting the Legacy: InVivo Biosystems' Contribution to Zebrafish Innovation
Today, more than four decades after Streisinger’s pioneering work, the University of Oregon remains a global leader in zebrafish research. The university’s scientists continue to push the boundaries of what we know about neuroscience, genetics, developmental biology, and the intricate relationships between animals and their microbiota.
As part of this scientific community, InVivo Biosystems plays a crucial role in supporting and enhancing the University of Oregon and other academic institutions’ zebrafish research. Our expertise in zebrafish models and preclinical research provides researchers with valuable tools and insights, helping to drive forward groundbreaking work. Whether we supply advanced transgenic zebrafish models or collaborate on cutting-edge research projects, we are proud to contribute to the continued advancement of zebrafish research.
Leading the Way in Translational Medicine with RapidGen™
Building on the University of Oregon’s foundational work, InVivo Biosystems has taken zebrafish research a step further by leading the implementation of zebrafish in translational medicine. Our premier preclinical development platform, RapidGen™, has been at the forefront of this effort, offering a revolutionary approach to drug discovery and development.
RapidGen™ leverages the unique advantages of zebrafish to provide rapid, cost-effective, and highly predictive models for human disease. By using zebrafish in early-stage preclinical development, we can quickly generate data that is directly translatable to human biology, significantly accelerating the drug development process. This not only reduces the time and resources required to bring new therapies to market but also increases the likelihood of success in clinical trials.
Our work with RapidGen™ exemplifies how InVivo Biosystems is leading the charge in harnessing the full potential of zebrafish for translational medicine. We have transformed zebrafish from a model organism into a critical tool for drug development, enabling pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical companies to make more informed decisions earlier in the development process. By integrating zebrafish into preclinical studies, we are helping to bridge the gap between basic research and clinical application, ultimately advancing the field of medicine.
Zebrafish: A Reliable and Ethical Alternative Model Organism
One of the key advantages of using zebrafish in preclinical development is their remarkable genetic similarity to humans. Zebrafish share approximately 85% of the genes associated with human diseases (mice are 86% genetically similar to humans), making them a highly relevant model for studying human biology and disease mechanisms. This genetic overlap allows researchers to gain insights that are directly translatable to human health, making zebrafish a powerful tool in the early stages of drug development.
Beyond their genetic relevance, zebrafish offer significant ethical advantages over traditional model organisms such as non-human primates and rodents. As the demand for more humane clinical research practices grows, zebrafish present a compelling alternative. Their small size, rapid development, and transparent embryos make them an ideal model for observing developmental processes in real time, all while minimizing ethical concerns.
Using zebrafish reduces the reliance on higher-order animals in preclinical studies, aligning with the principles of the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement) in animal research. Zebrafish provide a scalable and ethically responsible option that still delivers robust and predictive data, supporting the development of new therapies while adhering to ethical standards.
Honoring a Pioneer: Judith Eisen and the Streisinger Legacy
A testament to the enduring impact of George Streisinger’s work is the continued excellence in zebrafish research at the University of Oregon, exemplified by distinguished scientists like Judith Eisen. Recently elected to the National Academy of Sciences, Dr. Eisen is a renowned figure in the field, a direct link to Dr. Streisinger’s pioneering efforts and long-time supporter of InVivo Biosystems. Having worked alongside Dr. Streisinger before his passing in 1984, Dr. Eisen has carried forward his legacy, contributing significantly to the development and expansion of zebrafish research.
Eisen’s receipt of the George Streisinger Award is particularly meaningful, not only because of her professional achievements but also due to her personal connection to Dr. Streisinger. She has played a vital role in maintaining and advancing the zebrafish research colony that Streisinger established at the University of Oregon in the 1970s and 80s, ensuring that his innovative spirit continues to drive scientific discovery.
In fact, both of InVivo Biosystems’ Directors of Biology studied under Judith Eisen, benefiting from her mentorship and the rich legacy of zebrafish research at the University of Oregon. Dr. Bruckner’s and Dr. Preston’s work at InVivo Biosystems is a direct extension of the foundational knowledge and innovative spirit gained during their time in Dr. Eisen’s lab, further solidifying our company’s deep connection to the pioneers of zebrafish research.
Podcast: How Judith Eisen Helped Pioneer the use of Zebrafish
The podcast above was recorded by Sarah Cheesman, Ph.D., Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at InVivo Biosystems. The podcast episode was originally recorded as part of the “17 Minutes of Science” series published in 2021.
Audio not working? Listen on Spotify HERE.
Eugene, Oregon: A Hub for Scientific Collaboration
Eugene’s significance extends beyond history—it’s a thriving hub for scientific collaboration. Being located in Eugene allows InVivo Biosystems to engage directly with the experts at the University of Oregon and beyond. Our contributions to these collaborations are vital, helping to refine research methodologies, share knowledge, and advance the use of zebrafish as a model organism.
By being part of this community, we ensure that our zebrafish models are not only informed by the latest scientific discoveries but also contribute to them. This synergy between InVivo Biosystems and the University of Oregon enhances the quality and relevance of the research conducted in Eugene, benefiting the scientific community worldwide.
Conclusion: InVivo Biosystems is a Pillar in Eugene's Zebrafish Legacy
InVivo Biosystems’ headquarters in Eugene, Oregon, places us at the heart of a legacy of innovation in zebrafish research. The pioneering work of George Streisinger at the University of Oregon laid the groundwork for a field that continues to evolve, and we are proud to be a part of that legacy, not just as beneficiaries but as active contributors.
By providing advanced zebrafish models, collaborating on research, and supporting the infrastructure that drives zebrafish research worldwide, InVivo Biosystems plays a crucial role in the ongoing success zebrafish research. Our contributions are essential to the breakthroughs happening in Eugene and beyond.
Eugene isn’t just our home—it’s where we make a difference in the field of zebrafish research, helping to drive innovation and discovery alongside one of the world’s leading institutions.
