IMAQUANIM

Highlights from the integrated research project IMAQUANIM

Summary

Based on important disease models, this project concerns development of a technological knowledge platform for a future improved immunity to infectious pathogens in the major aquacultured species in Europe (Atlantic salmon, rainbow trout, sea bream, sea bass, carp, mussel and oyster). Focus will be put on use of vaccines, immuno-stimulants, immuno-diagnostic surveillance as well as markers for selection of the most immuno competent individuals. Assays for qualitative and quantitative monitoring of key elements of the innate and adaptive immune system at genetic and functional levels will be established and used for determination of response profiles which correlate with protective immunity. IMAQUANIMs data will provide a strong technological basis for qualified strategies to counteract rapidly known or new diseases in aquacultured fish. The resulting gene arrays and immune-response assays will be employed to develop efficient vaccines and feed-based immuno-stimulants for finfish species.

Co-ordinator

Dr. Niels Lorenzen

Assisted by

Dr. Katja Einer-Jensen 

and

Management assistants:

Kirsten Engell-Sørensen

Elsebeth Andreasen

Technical University of Denmark

DTU Veterinary

National Veterinary Institute

Division of Poultry, Fish
and Fur Animals

Aarhus, Denmark