ZF BioLabs is the Coordinator of a new European Network for alternative testing strategies in ecotoxicology; EUROECOTOX under the EC's Seven Framework Program (http://www.euroecotox.eu/).

Optimization of zebrafish as a model for ageing and systems biology: this is a recently developed mathematical based computer model on several zebrafish biological processes where factors as the water temperature, fed quality/quantity, and sex are being considered in relation to their influence over the development, growth, metabolic rate, reproduction and longevity of zebrafish.

ZF BioLabs is part of the “Zebrafish Regulomics for Human Health ZF-HEALTH” project, a Pan-European research consortium formed by 19 different organizations. Within this research project ZF BioLabs has generated two morphant zebrafish for two rare diseases associated with mitochondrial enzymes, Friedreich’s ataxia and Leigh Syndrome, and is now performing a moderate-throughput screening of compounds to identify suppressors of disease phenotypes.

New screening R&D searching for anti-ageing compounds based on zebrafish embryos. We are developing a method to induce senescence associated to oxidative stress in zebrafish embryos. The analysis of senescent level is being done by means of a biochemical marker: SA-beta-galactosidose, while also performing analysis of genetic markers related to ageing processes and manipulating conditions to optimize the zebrafish model for its utilization in ageing studies.

New alternative method based on zebrafish embryos to evaluate acute toxicity and toxicogenomics of new drugs. This R&D project is based in the zebrafish embryo model to develop a new acute toxicity test, taking benefit of its several advantages: decrease of the time, cost, testing compounds needs and the number of animals needed to develop acute toxicity studies. Furthermore, we are making analysis of effects on transcriptome of toxicity compounds to design of specific microarrays based on the zebrafish embryo model to test acute toxicity.

New alternative animal model for R&D of new therapies for multiple sclerosis based on zebrafish. ZF Biolabs is working in an innovative R&D strategy in order to develop a new transgenic zebrafish line to study multiple sclerosis and test new compounds for therapy. The initial phases of the project are: i) Viability studies, ii) New transgenic zebrafish model for the study of myelinization/remyelinization processes,  iii) Validation of the model.

New alternative model for determination of bioconcentration in ecotoxicity studies (Bioassay included in the REACH normative). The main aim of the project is to develop a method for determination of the bioconcentration factor using zebrafish embryos that serves as alternative to the adult fish bioassay 305 of OECD. This project has been planned as a Cooperation Project between the SME ZF BioLabs, expert developing new toxicology tests, the Analytical Chemical Department of Complutence University of Madrid and the Instrumental Analysis and Environmental Chemistry Department (CSIC’s Institute of General Organic Chemistry) which have wide research expertise in the field of analytical methods of environmental samples, specifically treating those samples. Download Poster presented at the SETAC 2007 meeting.

R&D of new natural products with photo-protective properties against the damage caused by ultraviolet radiation. In this project ZF BioLabs worked as CRO with a large Spanish Pharmaceutical company. Download posters presented at: 6th European Zebrafish Genetics and Development Meeting (Rome, Italy) and Farmadrid (Madrid, Spain).

Evaluating in vivo toxicity of nanomaterials using the zebrafish embryo model. With the information gained using this technology is useful as feedback for scientists & engineers designing novel nanomaterials, considering potential toxicity and ensuring their development having the least amount of toxic potential. ZF BioLabs presented a poster at the 4th NanoSpain Workshop. Download the poster.

ZF BioLabs collaborated as a partner in an European Research Project on laminopathies, using the Zebrafish as an animal model to study in vivo the molecular mechanisms of the disease pathology.

Definition and evaluation and applicability of bioassay for water toxicity determination using Zebrafish embryo. ZF BioLabs in cooperation with a water supply service company develop this bioassay good for ecotoxicology studies in water bodies. One poster was presented at the 2nd Spanish Meeting for Cianotoxins. 12-13 July 2007. (Madrid, Spain). Download the Poster (In Spanish).

R&D for a novel developmental toxicity assay with Zebrafish embryos. ZF BioLabs created a developmental toxicity test using Zebrafish embryos as an alternative to the mammalian model. The definitive endpoints which are used to establish the teratogenicity of a specific compound are based on a very deep knowledge of the embryology of the Zebrafish, which have been compiled in an Atlas of Malformations. This technology is now available as the DTZ (Developmental Toxicity Assay).  Two posters were presented at the HESI Workshop (North Caroline, USA). Download the Poster I and Poster II.

R&D for the husbandry methodology and breeding of zebrafish. Once established, ZF BioLabs have developed different technologies for its fishculture (from embryo to adults), including rearing, feeding, and a world leading embryo production technology without relying on natural spawning. These studies have led to different available technologies as the supply of embryo and larvae, custom design of aquarium modular systems and specific  high quality feeds for zebrafish adults and frys.