Mucosal Immune System of Atlantic Cod - Creating a Knowledge Base

Diseases among farmed organisms are a major threat to aquaculture operations. In spite of technological advances, problems emerge when diseases of unknown etiology appear or when attempting to farm a new species. The developing cod farming industry too wo uld encounter diseases as the activities intensify. To be better prepared, we need a proper understanding of the disease process and the defense mechanisms of cod. All animals have developed unique ways of protecting from pathogens; the aquatic species including cod are no exception. In general, the mucus of fish acts as a primary line of defense against pathogens. However, hardly any attempt has been made to look at this first barrier- the mucosal immune system. Therefore, we considered that it is nece ssary to develop fundamental knowledge on mucosal defense mechanisms in Atlantic cod, since this fish is strategically important to Norwegian aquaculture. To facilitate this basic research we collaborate with a pioneering international expert in this fiel d. In addition, we have teamed up with other leading international and national scientists in fish immunology and disease to develop knowledge on this relatively less-studied aspect. Our goal is to gather maximum information on the mucosal immune system of cod through this project, particularly at the gut level. We aim to study the normal components that include cellular and soluble factors, and would employ microscopy, molecular tools and microbiological methods. The work plan includes in vitro as well as whole animal studies. Due to the lack of background information, one of the particular tasks we consider challenging would be the development of intestinal cell lines for the applied studies. The deliverables from this study will have a direct impact o n the industry since it could be employed to develop vaccines as well as strategies for their use. Thus it is basic research with a distinct applied value.