This article is the cover story for the newest issue of The Scientist, and since we all like zebrafish so much... Here you go.
Researchers can study cancerous tumors in animal models and apply this information to the study of cancer in humans because the cancers often share common genetic underpinnings across species. Researchers are able to use transparent zebrafish embryo, larvae and adult fish in order to better understand the development and spread of cancers. For instance, they are able to transplant GFP labeled human cancer cells into the transparent zebrafish, which provides a visual map of cancer growth and progression. Apparently zebrafish are the new "it" thing.. at least when it comes to lab research.
http://www.the-scientist.com/?articles.view/articleNo/34834/title/Models-of-Transparency/
It amazes me that we are able to do so many things with biotechnology. I thought this article was neat that they were able to visualize the cancer using transparent zebrafish. Being able to understand what cancer looks like through the beginning stages will help Doctors diagnose it earlier on and save more lives!
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