The African turquoise killifish (Nothobranchius furzeri): A model of age-related diseases and declining regenerative capability across multiple organs.

Abstract

African turquoise killifish (Nothobranchius furzeri) has emerged as a promising vertebrate model for aging research because of its unique characteristics. Its exceptionally short lifespan and rapid aging make it an ideal model for studying age-related phenomena in compressed timeframes. This species exhibits hallmarks of aging observed in longer-lived vertebrates, including motor neuron degeneration, muscle weakness, and impaired regenerative capacity. These features make it valuable for investigating molecular and cellular mechanisms of age-related diseases and tissue regeneration. However, current research has primarily focused on brain aging and neurodegeneration, while systemic age-related changes across organs remain underexplored. The impact of aging on tissue regeneration in this model needs comprehensive investigation. This review summarizes current research using African turquoise killifish on age-related diseases and tissue regeneration in multiple organs. By integrating aging and regeneration biology, this review offers a perspective that expands the utility of this species beyond neurobiology, positioning it as a promising model for gerontology and regenerative medicine. We discuss limitations and future directions to advance its use in aging studies across multiple organs. Future research on African turquoise killifish will contribute to identifying therapeutic targets and developing interventions for age-related diseases, ultimately extending healthy life expectancy in humans.