Analysis of Optokinetic Response in Zebrafish by Computer-Based Eye Tracking

Abstract

Large-fi eld movements in the visual surround trigger spontaneous, compensatory eye movements known as optokinetic response (OKR) in all vertebrates. In zebra fi sh ( Danio rerio ) the OKR is well developed at 5 days post fertilization and can be used in the laboratory for screening of visual performance following genetic manipulations or pharmaceutical treatments. Several setups for measurement of the zebra fi sh OKR have been described. All of them are based on the presentation of moving gratings to the larva or to the adult fi sh. However, they differ in the way of presenting gratings and in the method of analysis. Here, we describe a detailed protocol for our newest software that enables computer-generation of the moving stripes and automatic tracking of eye movement. This protocol makes it possible to quantitatively measure OKR in both larvae and adult fi shes in a fast and reliable way.

The Optokinetic Response as a Quantitative Measure of Visual Acuity in Zebrafish

“…The presentation of the grating can be either done as described here and elsewhere using a physically rotating drum or by presenting a digital display [18][19][20][21][22] . Both types have specific advantages and disadvantages.…”

Zebrafish—on the move towards ophthalmological research

“…23 Experimental visual stimuli, such as spatial frequency, contrast, and angular velocity can be altered in this setting to gain a deeper understanding of a potential defect. 46 With some experimental adaptations, such as constant supply of oxygen-rich water while body movement is restrained, this method can be applied to adult fish as well. 47 This assay is rapid and responses of larvae or adult fish can be processed within only few minutes.…”

“…3,40,41 For this method, zebrafish larvae are immobilized to restrain the body while maintaining the ability for eye movement and are then exposed to a visual stimulus that usually consists of alternate black and white stripes that move around the larvae. 4,23,24,46 The larvae respond to this stimulus by moving their eyes in the direction of the moving stripes. 23 Experimental visual stimuli, such as spatial frequency, contrast, and angular velocity can be altered in this setting to gain a deeper understanding of a potential defect.…”

Genetic approaches to retinal research in zebrafish

“…Computer based OKR setups allow more sophisticated measurements, e.g. presentation of stripes of different intensities or different rotation velocities assessing contrast vision and temporal resolution respectively (Huber-Reggi et al 2013;Rinner et al 2005). Since this behavior is largely reflexive it has been successfully used to screen for blind mutant strains (Brockerhoff et al 1995;Neuhauss et al 1999;Muto et al 2005).…”