EFFECTS OF CHLORAMPHENICOL ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ZEBRAFISH, BRACHYDANIO RERIO

Abstract

Fertilized eggs of the zebrafish, Brachydanio rerio, were subjected at 26 °C to three concentrations of chloramphenicol, 0.125, 0.250, and 0.500 mg/ml, at seven developmental stages ranging from cleavage to optic cup formation for periods of 12, 24, and 36 h. Subsequently, they were transferred to aquarial water to complete 48 h of development. Most extreme anomalies were induced by chloramphenicol in eggs initially subjected during cleavage and blastulation and less extreme anomalies in eggs exposed during or after gastrulation. In addition to general retardation of development, anomalies of the nervous, muscular, and vascular systems were induced. A unique type of spina bifida was of frequent occurrence. The teratogenic responses of the zebrafish egg are discussed in relation to the present concept of the mode of action of this antibiotic.