Project Grant R24OD042579

The National Institutes of Health Office of the Director awarded the University of Massachusetts $503,073 on August 1, 2026, under the Research Infrastructure Programs (CFDA 93.351) to systematically evaluate extrinsic variables affecting biological endpoints in zebrafish research and improve experimental rigor and reproducibility across biomedical disciplines.

The recipient will acquire state-of-the-art equipment to standardize and measure environmental factors in zebrafish research: embryo incubators capable of monitoring and controlling light, temperature, and humidity; a multi-camera array microscope for morphology and behavior endpoints; and an aquatics data system to monitor, record, and automatically adjust water quality parameters. Leveraging four independently managed zebrafish facilities at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, the project will systematically evaluate extrinsic factors including rearing media, light cycle, vessel size, population density, and feeding at embryonic and larval life stages, as well as parental diet and facility-level water quality and temperature monitoring. The evaluation will assess how these variables affect biological endpoints across multiple physiological and organ systems, including developmental toxicology impacts, pancreas and liver structure and function, antioxidant responses, behavior, neurogenesis, and craniofacial development. Results will address gaps in standardization across laboratories and enhance shared resources within the zebrafish research community, while supporting the integration of zebrafish as a key component of new approach methodologies in biomedical research.

The period of performance extends from August 1, 2026, through April 30, 2030, with performance at Hadley, Massachusetts.