Studies of the differential expressed immune genes in organs of ornamental fish in response to myxosporeans infection

Abstract

In the original project it was planned the accomplishment of part of the research in a center of excellence abroad. Therefore, with this research project we aim to increment and develop studies of molecular mechanisms involved in immune defense of fish against myxosporeans, increasing knowledge and competences, besides acquiring new expertizes, regarding the Postdoctoral project in execution. Studies performed so far, have shown a large number of new myxosporeans species infecting Amazonian ornamental fish, as well as different host response to the presence of these parasites were found during our recent research. In this project, studies of identification and evaluation of the expression of immune genes in fishes infected with myxosporean parasites will contribute to elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved in immune defense of hosts in response to myxosporeans infection. In the same way, this project aims to identify and determine the patterns of immune gene expression in fishes infected by myxosporean parasites. Finally, considering that studies about characterization of the fish immune gene system and its regulation is crucial for the development of vaccines and other preventive measures such as immunomodulation and selection of disease-resistant strains, this project will be of great importance for the progress of strategies to better prevent future disease outbreaks in wild and farmed freshwater fish.