Zebrafish might be crucial to creating treatments for lymphoedema

The incurable condition occurs when the lymphatic system's damaged, and most commonly happens as a consequence of breast-cancer treatment.

While testing on Zebrafish, University of Auckland scientists found the growth-promoting molecule -- known as IGF -- has the potential to repair vessels.

Senior Lecturer, Jonathan Astin, says fish are used because -- for the most part -- they're remarkably similar to us.

He says these ones are unique in one important way, as their larva are almost transparent.

Astin says it offers a window into how our organs develop.