Healing powers of zebrafish to be the focus of interest

The six-centimetre fish has muscle development similar to humans but far better regenerative properties, making it a useful study subject for researchers seeking remedies for muscular dystrophy, heart disease and other diseases.

A $5 million Zebrafish Core Research Facility was opened at Monash University's Clayton Campus on Tuesday as part of the Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute (ARMI), in partnership with the Victorian government.

ARMI deputy director Professor Peter Currie said the zebrafish would help give researchers insights into degenerative diseases.

"Its transparent embryo and rapid development allow us to see in great detail how it grows and develops," he said in a statement.

Victorian Innovation Minister Gavin Jennings said the investment would position the state as a leader in regenerative medicine.

"This new internationally significant research facility will enable Victorian scientists to better understand how genes control normal development and to characterise the actions of mutations responsible for conditions such as muscular dystrophy and heart disease."