Construction and phenotypic analysis of <i>p2rx2</i> knockout zebrafish lines.

We successfully generated a <i>p2rx2</i> loss-of-function zebrafish model using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. <i>p2rx2</i> deficiency caused hair cell defects in the otolith region and increased auditory thresholds across frequencies, indicating its key role in maintaining zebrafish auditory hair cell function and hearing perception. The phenotype's restriction to the otolith region suggests tissue-specific roles of <i>p2rx2</i> in sensory organs. This model provides a valuable tool for elucidating the molecular mechanisms of <i>P2RX2</i>-related hearing loss and for screening otoprotective drugs and developing gene therapies.