The immune system of
teleosts is striking, they do not possess bone marrow or lymph nodes, but harbor
extensive immune tissue within the kidney. Despite this unique arrangement of
lymphoid tissue, fish express an immunological response comparable to that of
mammals. The research in my laboratory focuses on the generation of
antibody secreting cells, specifically those found in the anterior kidney, and
determining their role in maintaining serum titers.
Another
research interest in the laboratory is examining the
effects of stress on the health of aquatic animals. In collaboration with Dr
Bernal (U Mass Dartmouth), we are examining the effects of exercise stress
on high performance fishes. A second project with Dr Carpenter (WHOI) is examining
the effects of various environmental stressors on corals. For further information on
research projects please visit the research
project
page.
