The Role of Gut Motility Genes in Zebrafish

The goals of this study were to 1, spatially map expression of genes of interest across the zebrafish intestinal tract and 2, determine the role of the motilin receptor in gut motility. Zebrafish serve as a model organism for gut motility due to their high genetic similarity to humans as well as their intestinal tract. To accomplish aim one, samples were collected from each region of the zebrafish intestine: intestinal bulb, small intestine and, colon. RNA was then transcribed into cDNA. PCR was conducted on the resulting cDNA. Genes coding for digestive enzymes, including ada and ctsh, were expressed in both the intestinal bulb and small intestine. Genes of interest known to be involved in gut motility disorders were also mapped. The gene ano1, known to be involved in the pacing of gut motility, was expressed in all three regions of the intestine. To accomplish aim two, the motilin receptor was inhibited. Delayed gut emptying was seen 3 and 4 hours following treatment. 5 hours after treatment, no difference between treated and mock treated groups was observed.<p></p>