Marine Immunology
The Marine Immunology Program focuses on basic and applied immunological research of marine animals, ranging from cartilaginous fishes (sharks, skates, and rays) to marine mammals.
Basic research efforts contribute to a better understanding of comparative vertebrate immune function as well as phylogenetic insights into human immunity, while applied studies provide unique information helpful in assessing the immune health of wild populations of marine animals, including marine mammals, exposed to a variety of environmental stressors.
Current projects focus on:
- Characterization of cellular immune function in elasmobranchs.
- Identification of immune regulatory factors in elasmobranchs.
- Characterization of the effects of environmental stressors on manatee immune health.
Mote Marine Laboratory has been a leader in marine research since it was founded in 1955. Today, we incorporate public outreach as a key part of our mission. Mote is an independent nonprofit organization and has seven centers for marine research, the public Mote Aquarium and an Education Division specializing in public programs for all ages.
