Claudia Maurer-Morelli

This presentation aims to highlight the attributes of zebrafish for epilepsy and seizure studies. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) is a valuable and widely accepted model in research due to its conserved molecular and genetic pathways with humans, cost-effectiveness, and translational potential. High-throughput drug screening using zebrafish larvae is a powerful approach for identifying compounds with anti-seizure properties. Zebrafish larvae exhibit behaviors indicative of seizure activity, making them an effective tool for screening potential therapeutic compounds. Furthermore, by generating zebrafish models with specific genetic mutations associated with epilepsy, it is possible to study the effects of these mutations on seizure development and response to different treatments leading to more effective and tailored treatments for patients. Additionally, zebrafish models allow for the evaluation of drug safety and potential side effects, addressing critical concerns in the development of new treatments. In summary, zebrafish models offer a powerful and versatile platform for epilepsy and seizure studies, encompassing mechanistic investigations, drug screening, and personalized medicine approaches.