2005/01/13 by Iain A. Drummond · 2 citations
Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · Medicine · #Renal and related cancers #Birth, Development, and Health #Genetic and Kidney Cyst Diseases
paper · doi:10.1681/asn.2004090754
openalex publication_date 2005/01/13 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/08/01
Unraveling the molecular pathogenesis of human disease presents many experimental challenges, not the least of which is that experiments on humans are generally frowned upon. Model organisms, including the zebrafish, allow for experimental analysis of gene function and the detailed characterization of disease processes. Zebrafish have matured as a vertebrate model organism now that genetic tools for targeted "knockdowns" and unbiased mutagenesis approaches are in hand. The fish larval pronephros is a relevant kidney in which to pursue many aspects of human kidney development and disease. This short review outlines recent progress in applying the zebrafish pronephros to issues of human health and development.