Evaluation of a novel biofilm oral vaccine on gut immunity of carp

In aquaculture, vaccination is considered as a sustainable strategy for disease prevention. To further develop effective vaccines for farmed aquatic animals, Norway (Research Council of Norway) and India (Department of Biotechnology) has jointly initiated a research programme with different consortia. The proposed project is linked to one such consortium and aims to look at the effect of biofilm oral vaccine on immunity of Indian carp (Rohu) and common carp. Oral vaccination is a preferred method, but its efficacy depends on its appropriate delivery. The host in Norway (Aquatic Animal Health Group at the Bodø University College) has adequate expertise in mucosal immunity and oral vaccination of fish (Joosten et al., 1995, 1997; Companjen et al., 2005, 200 6; Inami et al., 2009), and through training there I hope to add value to the on-going projects, if a scholarship is made available.