Laboratory of Fish Immunology (Tomáš Korytář)
Welcome to the Laboratory of Fish Immunology at the Biology Centre CAS. Our team is at the forefront of understanding and improving fish immune systems, focusing primarily on teleost fish. By combining molecular and functional immunology, we delve into the evolutionary dynamics of immune functions and the intricate host-pathogen interactions within aquatic ecosystems. Our mission is to pioneer innovative research tools and methodologies that not only advance scientific knowledge but also drive practical applications in aquaculture and beyond.
Our Research Mission
We explore the complexities of fish immune systems to develop advanced disease prevention strategies, contributing to sustainable aquaculture practices and offering insights relevant to broader immunological and evolutionary studies. Our research has profound implications for human health, disease management, and conservation biology, making our work essential in the fight against emerging aquatic diseases and in understanding the evolutionary pathways of immune systems across species.
Key Research Themes
1. Fundamental Immunology of Teleost Fish
Our research offers a window into the immune systems of teleost fish, providing a unique perspective on the evolutionary adaptations that these organisms have undergone. By employing cutting-edge techniques such as single-cell RNA sequencing, we map out the diversity and function of immune cells in response to pathogens. This foundational research not only improves fish health management in aquaculture but also enriches our understanding of vertebrate immunology.
2. Advanced Antibody Research and Receptor Evolution
We investigate how antibodies and their receptors function within teleost fish, focusing on their role in immune response activation. This includes exploring the interactions between antibodies and various cell surface receptors, which are crucial for initiating immune defenses like phagocytosis and cytotoxicity. Our findings on the evolution of these interactions highlight the adaptive nature of immune systems and provide a template for vaccine development and disease prevention strategies.
3. Innovative Vaccination Strategies
A significant part of our applied research involves developing and refining vaccination techniques, particularly through oral delivery methods, to enhance immune efficacy and user safety in aquaculture environments. These efforts are paving the way for more sustainable and humane practices in fish farming, ultimately contributing to global food security.
4. Host-Pathogen Dynamics
Our studies on host-pathogen interactions are critical for understanding how immune systems and pathogens evolve in response to each other. This research not only helps in designing effective disease control measures but also in predicting how pathogens might evolve, enabling us to stay one step ahead in disease management.
Collaborative Efforts and Future Outlook
Collaboration is at the heart of our operations. We work closely with international researchers and industry partners to apply our findings in real-world settings, enhancing fish health and welfare on a global scale. Looking forward, we are committed to expanding our research scope to include more comparative immunological studies across various species, aiming to unlock further secrets of immune system evolution and functionality.
Join us on our journey to discover and protect. At the Laboratory of Fish Immunology, every discovery brings us closer to understanding the vast complexities of nature and how we can better interact with our aquatic counterparts for the benefit of all.
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