Pain management in zebrafish: Report from a FELASA Working Group
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Author
Sneddon, Lynne U.
Schroeder, Paul
Finger-Baier, Karin
Fleming, Angeleen
Tinman, Simon
Collet, Bertrand
Publication date
2023-12-05ISSN
0023-6772
Abstract
Empirical evidence suggests fishes meet the criteria for experiencing pain beyond a reasonable doubt and zebrafish are being increasingly used in studies of pain and nociception. Zebrafish are adopted across a wide range of experimental fields and their use is growing particularly in biomedical studies. Many laboratory procedures in zebrafish involve tissue damage and this may give rise to pain. Therefore, this FELASA Working Group reviewed the evidence for pain in zebrafish, the indicators used to assess pain and the impact of a range of drugs with pain-relieving properties. We report that there are several behavioural indicators that can be used to determine pain, including reduced activity, space use and distance travelled. Pain-relieving drugs prevent these responses, and we highlight the dose and administration route. To minimise or avoid pain, several refinements are suggested for common laboratory procedures. Finally, practical suggestions are made for the management and alleviation of pain in laboratory zebrafish, including recommendations for analgesia. Pain management is an important refinement in experimental animal use and so our report has the potential to improve zebrafish welfare during and after invasive procedures in laboratories across the globe.
Document Type
Article
Document version
Published version
Language
English
Subject (CDU)
637 - Produce of domestic (farmyard) animals and game
Pages
16
Publisher
SAGE
Is part of
Laboratory Animals
Citation
Sneddon, Lynne U., Paul G. Schroeder, Ana Roque, Karin Finger‐Baier, Angeleen Fleming, Simon Tinman, and Bertrand Collet. 2023. “Pain Management in Zebrafish.” Laboratory Animals. https://doi.org/10.1177/00236772231198733.
Program
Aqüicultura
This item appears in the following Collection(s)
- ARTICLES CIENTÍFICS [2555]
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Except where otherwise noted, this item's license is described as http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/