The Surprising Impact of Common Drugs on Human Facial Development
A study using zebrafish embryos has found that substances such as caffeine and the blood thinner warfarin can impair the migration of bone-forming cells, leading to facial malformation. Zebrafish embryos are transparent and develop outside of the parent's body, making them ideal for studying early development. Researchers suggest that a zebrafish-based system could be used to screen for potentially harmful substances, reducing the need for animal testing and supporting parents-to-be in making choices for their baby's health. The study highlights the potential for a general mechanism by which teratogenic chemicals limit the movement of cells involved in facial development, leading to craniofacial anomalies.