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Breaking News: CRISPR-Cas9-Mediated Knockout of VCP Impairs Zebrafish Homeostasis

VCP, a Key Regulator of Protein Homeostasis, Impaired in Zebrafish

Researchers have successfully generated a stable constitutive knockout of the Valosin-containing protein (VCP) in zebrafish using CRISPR-Cas9 technology. VCP is a key regulator of cellular protein homeostasis and its loss has been implicated in various human diseases.

The findings, published in the journal "Scientific Reports," demonstrate that CRISPR-Cas9-mediated constitutive knockout of VCP severely impairs zebrafish development. The team observed defects in multiple organ systems, including the brain, heart, and liver. The study provides novel insights into the critical role of VCP in maintaining cellular homeostasis and zebrafish development.

Additionally, the loss of VCP in zebrafish resulted in significant changes in immune responses. Researchers observed a different immune response in non-titanized compared to titanized zebrafish, suggesting that VCP may play a role in modulating immune function.

This research highlights the potential of using CRISPR-Cas9 to study gene function and disease mechanisms in vertebrate models. The VCP knockout zebrafish model provides a valuable tool for further investigations into the molecular mechanisms underlying VCP-related disorders.