Animals in cardiovascular research

Abstract

Cardiac health and function is dependent on a complex interplay of metabolic, haemodynamic, neuro-hormonal, and immunologic processes.1 In order to understand the mechanism of a cardiac disease or evaluate novel therapies, a biological system is needed that is capable to mimic this fascinating complexity. Because the basic gene regulatory networks are often preserved between distinct evolutionary species, insights into the basic mechanisms responsible for human heart development, function, and pathology can be obtained from studies on lower organisms such as flies, worms, and fish.2 Zebrafish (Danio rerio) shares large blocks of chromosomal synteny and homology with the human genome and ∼70% of human genes have zebrafish orthologues.3 Due to its large number of offspring, external embryonic development, and less stringent ethical policy (in some countries zebrafish larvae are not considered animals), zebrafish has provided a valuable model for studies on heart organogenesis and development in the past and continues to provide insights into cardiac regeneration today.4 Complete transparency of the embryos and their ability to survive embryogenesis despite severe cardiovascular defects (sufficient oxygen uptake by passive diffusion) allowed scientists to use fast, high-resolution imaging of live developing hearts and blood flow.5–7 Thus, creating insights into important intra-cardiac blood flow dynamics and shear stress forces for proper cardiac development and possible regeneration.7,8

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