Fish and amphibian embryos as alternative models in toxicology and teratology

When 23 – 24 Oct 2014

Where  Aulnay-sous-Bois/Paris, France (map)

Description

Fish and amphibian embryo models are highly popular in the area of toxicology, both in research, industry and potential regulatory application. These models exhibit a number of advantages which make them superior and/or complementary to others. In compliance with international animal welfare regulations, the fish and amphibian embryo models provide an ethically acceptable small scale analysis system with the complexity of a complete organism. A suite of available advanced methodologies allows various types of experimental approaches ranging from phenotypic observations, functional assays to “omics” analysis. The ultimate goal of the symposium is to promote the development of the fish and frog embryo models as potential alternatives to animal testing.

Two first very succesful symposia were held in 2010 and 2012 with a strong focus on the zebrafish model. While the zebrafish will remain one of the most important model our symposium is open to other fish and amphibian species with similar features. The symposium aims to bring together scientists using fish and frog embryo models, exchange knowledge, ideas and latest developments in the field of toxicology and teratology. Invited lectures will focus on specific topics. Breakout sessions will allow to identify major advantages, limitations, new fields and future research needs of the fish/amphibian embryo model and to establish collaborations.