Transgenic fish: which types of heterologous genes have been successfully introduced into fish to demonstrate transgenesis or enhance traits?

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: All of the above

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Fish have served as important models for vertebrate development and as targets for aquaculture trait enhancement. Various exogenous genes have been introduced to assess promoter activity, visualize transgenesis, or modify growth and physiology.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Growth hormone genes from mammals have been used to stimulate growth in fish.
  • Lens structural genes like delta-crystallin provide tissue-specific expression tests.
  • Bacterial reporter genes such as lacZ encode β-galactosidase for histochemical detection.


Concept / Approach:
Transgenesis is often first validated with robust reporters or clearly measurable phenotypes. β-galactosidase allows easy staining; growth hormone expression yields growth phenotypes; lens proteins check promoter specificity in ocular tissues. Together, they illustrate broad feasibility of gene transfer in fish embryos.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Inject or deliver DNA constructs into one-cell or early embryos.Select promoters appropriate to desired tissues or systemic expression.Screen for expression by phenotype, staining, or molecular assays.


Verification / Alternative check:
Peer-reviewed studies and textbook examples document successful incorporation and expression of mammalian, avian, and bacterial genes in fish models (for example, medaka, zebrafish, salmonids).


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • A–C individually are true, but each alone is incomplete. The correct comprehensive answer is that all listed gene types have been used.
  • E: Contradicts extensive literature on fish transgenesis.


Common Pitfalls:
Assuming only native fish genes are usable; underestimating the value of reporter genes for validating construct delivery and promoter function.


Final Answer:
All of the above

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