Dr. Ruilin Zhang | 张瑞霖

Rui-lin Zhang

In our lab, we use a combination of genetic, molecular and embryological approaches to study signal transduction, cell differentiation and organogenesis in zebrafish. We use zebrafish as a human disease model, focusing on the development and disease of the cardiovascular and skeletal muscle systems. We also are interested in tissue injury and the mechanisms of regeneration.

This year’s module of genetics will focus on the knowledge and technology of zebrafish genetics and embryonic development. It will also provide training in the application of zebrafish techniques to biomedical research. Participating students will learn the techniques of zebrafish husbandry, embryo genotyping, observation, staining, and imaging of the development process. Students will also have the opportunity to design their own experiments, utilizing zebrafish to test the toxicity of chemical agents of their choosing.

Below, fluorescent and bright field time lapse imaging of transgenic zebrafish from 24 to 96 hours post fertilization, blood vessels labeled with green fluorescent protein. Lateral view, anterior to the left. (Image credit: Kaufmann A, et al. Development, 2012 (17):3242-7)

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Above, wild type zebrafish heart contraction at 4 days post fertilization. Ventral view, anterior to the top. (Image credit: Dr. Ruilin Zhang, Fudan University)