Zebrafish as an Animal Model for Albinism Disorders

Abstract

Zebrafish (Danio rerio) is a relevant model for studying many diseases, including the melanocyte-related disorders. In this review of melanocyte literature, we discuss current knowledge about different forms of albinism and the potential of the zebrafish model to find new mechanisms and treatments. Melanin is produced in a process called melanogenesis. This, if altered, leads to diseases such as albinism. Albinism causes an increased risk of skin cancer. Zebrafish are used to study pigment disorders, due to their high fecundity, visible development of melanin in melanophores (melanocytes in mammals) from 24 h post-fertilization, and preserved melanogenesis pathways. In this case, we looked for developmental pathways in zebrafish melanophores and mammalian melanocytes. In addition, we summarized advances in understanding pigment cell disease and evidence supporting the potent potential of using zebrafish to better understand the management of albinism