A novel locomotion-based prepulse inhibition assay in zebrafish larvae

TL;DR

Researchers developed a new method to study sensory gating in zebrafish larvae using movement instead of high-speed cameras.

Contribution

A novel PPI assay using locomotion instead of c-bend startle behaviors in zebrafish larvae is introduced.

Findings

PPI percentage reached a maximum of 87% in the new assay.

Administration of MK-801 significantly reduced PPI, indicating its effect on sensory gating.

Abstract

Sensory gating, measured using prepulse inhibition (PPI), is an endophenotype of neuropsychiatric disorders that can be assessed in larval zebrafish models. However, current PPI assays require high-speed cameras to capture rapid c-bend startle behaviours of the larvae. In this study, we designed and employed a PPI paradigm that uses locomotion as a read-out of zebrafish larval startle responses. PPI percentage was measured at a maximum of 87% and strongly reduced upon administration of the NMDA receptor antagonist, MK-801. This work provides the foundation for simpler and more accessible PPI assays using larval zebrafish to model key endophenotypes of neurodevelopmental disorders.

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