# 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.

## Key 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.