The zebrafish (Danio rerio) is an emerging model system in several research areas worldwide, especially in the Global South. In this context, the present study revised the historical use and trends of zebrafish as experimental models in Brazil. The data concerning the bibliometric parameters, research areas, geographic distribution, experimental design, zebrafish strain, and reporter lines, as well as recent advances were revised. In addition, the comparative trends of Brazilian and global research were discussed. Revised data showed the rapid growth of Brazilian scientific production using zebrafish as a model, especially in three main research areas (Neuroscience &and Behavior, Pharmacology and Toxicology, and Environment/Ecology). Studies were conducted in 19 Brazilian states (70.37%), confirming the wide geographic distribution and importance of zebrafish research. Results indicated that research related to toxicological approaches are widespread in Global South countries such as Brazil. Studies were performed mainly using in vivo tests (89.58%) with adult fish (59.75%) and embryos (30.67%). Moreover, significant research gaps and recommendations for future research are presented. The present study shows that the zebrafish is a suitable vertebrate model system in the Global South.
Zebrafish (Danio rerio) is a tropical fish species widely used in research, worldwide. The development of genetically modified animals and the increasing number of zebrafish breeding facilities due to their emerging use in several research fields, opened room for new ethical challenges for research carried out with this species. It is necessary to raise the scientific community’s awareness of the ethical standards and laws in force, on animal research. Thus, the aim of the current study is to describe 10 Rs ethical principles by using zebrafish as model system in research. The classical 3 Rs concerning animal welfare, namely replacement, reduction and refinement; and the added 7 Rs related to scientific (registration, reporting, robustness, reproducibility and relevance) and conduct principles (responsibility, and respect) in zebrafish research are herein presented and critically discussed. The use of these 10 Rs by researchers, institutions and the Animal Ethics Committee is recommended to support regulations, decision-making about and the promotion of zebrafish health and welfare in research.
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