Zebrafish embryo screen identifies anti-metastasis drugs

Metastasis is responsible for approximately 90% of cancer-associated mortality, but few models exist that allow for rapid and effective screening of anti-metastasis drugs. Here we report a novel screening concept utilizing conserved mechanisms between metastasis and zebrafish gastrulation for identifying anti-metastasis drugs. Molecular mechanisms involved in metastasis and vertebrate gastrulation are conserved; at least fifty common genes play essential roles in governing these mechanisms. We hypothesized that small chemicals that interrupt zebrafish gastrulation might also suppress metastatic progression of cancer cells and developed a phenotype-based chemical screen to test the hypothesis. The screen used epiboly, the first morphogenetic movement in gastrulation as a marker, and identified a serotonin receptor 2C (HTR2C) antagonist as an epiboly-interrupting drug. A mouse model of metastasis confirmed that pharmacologic and genetic inhibition of HTR2C suppressed metastasis. Taken together, this screen could offer a rapid and high-throughput platform for discovery of anti-metastasis drugs.

CLINICAL ASPECT OF VAYU AS “KARTA GARBHAKRUTINAM” W. S. R TO MORPHOGENETIC FIELD

In Ayurvedic embryology, various interesting concepts of conception, formation of zygote and foetus and various different organs and system formation are explained. Among that concept of cell division and differentiation in conscious foetus (Chetanayukt Garbha) is mentioned. The role of Panchmahabhutas and Tridoshas in the formation and development of Garbha is mentioned. Among them most important is “Vayu ”which is responsible for cell division .Vayu is vital force which divides zygote into different limb buds and organs. Thus main function of “Vata“ is incomprehensible like formation of foetal shape. But perturbations in “Vata” is responsible for formation of various congenital anomalies i.e Garbhavikruti. In modern concepts of developmental biology, important area is “Morphogenetic field”. It was first introduced in 1910 by Alexander G. Gurwitsch. He analyzed the embryonic development of the sea urchin as a vector field, As it is the proliferation of cells into organs were brought about by putative external forces. It is the set of process that generates shape and form in the embryo. Morphogenetic movement is caused by large scale and dynamic movement of embryonic cell which is under control of Vata. Failures in any step of process can lead to birth defects. Ancient Acharyas have mentioned various measures under Garbhini Paricharya for pregnant women from first day of conception till parturition. It restores the Vayu to its normal course and condition. Thus it helps the morphogenetic movement occur without any failure to have healthy foetus and progeny.Thus prevalence of congenital anamolies can be reduced by understanding Vayu as Garbhakrutinam ,Morphogenetic field and following Garbhini paricharya.