Zebrafish Husbandry, Microinjection & Imaging

The L V Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI) offers an intensive hands-on laboratory program to build complete technical competency in utilizing the zebrafish (Danio rerio) model. Because of their rapid development, genetic tractability and optical transparency, zebrafish are ideal for real-time visualization of cellular networks. Participants gain practical experience in aquatic facility engineering, water metrics and live feed systems before mastering high-precision embryonic, larval microinjections and xenotransplantation. The comprehensive curriculum emphasizes modeling complex human disease with a direct focus on ocular disorders and executing advanced in vivo imaging to prepare researchers for independent, cutting-edge translational science.

Techniques Covered:

• HUSBANDRY
  – Introduction of zebrafish life cycle
  – Water quality management (pH, temperature, conductivity, salinity)
  – Live feed culture (Artemia)
  – Facility biosecurity & Health monitoring

• COLONY MANAGEMENT & BREEDING
  – Strain maintenance & genetics
  – Sex identification & spawning setups
  – Embryo collection & in-vitro fertilization
• DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY & STAGING
  – Embryonic staging & Morphology assessment
  – Pigmentation & Axis formation
• MICROMANIPULATION & BLOOD COLLECTION
  – Microinjection techniques embryo (DNA, RNA), larvae (cancer cells)
  – Adult zebrafish blood collection & Dissection of organs
• BEHAVIORAL OBSERVATIONS
  – Learning and Memory test (Y and rectangular maze)
  – optokinetic response (OKR)
• MICROSCOPY IMAGING & BIOETHICS
  – In vivo fluorescent live cell imaging 
  – Anesthesia (MS-222) & Euthanasia
  – Ethical regulations (3Rs: Replacement, Reduction and Refinement)

Salient Features of the Training Program

• One to one interaction with faculty / clinicians
• Opportunity to observe in-house ophthalmic research facilities
• Direct engagement in research forum meetings
• Exposure to cross-functional research groups
• Certificates will be provided to all registered participants

Program Details:

• Duration: 2 weeks
• Enrolment: Open Throughout the Year
• Registration Fees: UG/PG Students: INR 10,000/- | Research Scholars: INR 15,000/- | Faculty/Industry: INR 20,000/-
• Venue: L V Prasad Eye Institute, KAR – Campus, Road no 2, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana

Program Organizers:

Dr Rani Pallavi
Research Scientist, Ocular Oncology,
In-charge ̶ Zebrafish Facility

Dr Vivek Sigh
Research Scientist, Stem Cell Biology,
Head, Animal Experimentation

Course Coordinators:

Mr Santhosh Kumar Damera
Zebrafish Facility

Mr Aniruth Reddy Aindla
Animal Experimentation

Mrs Divyesha Savaliya
Project fellow