Laboratory for Immunology and Animal Biotechnology

The Laboratory for Immunology and Animal Biotechnology performs research on i) the development of new molecular diagnostic methods for identifying bacterial pathogens in both humans and animals, ii) unravelling the cellular and molecular pathogenesis of (zoonotic) bacterial infections, iii) gaining insight in the induction of protective mucosal immunity, (iv) innate immunity in shellfish and (v) innate and adaptive immunity in fish. Regarding aquaculture research, the laboratory uses cell culture models and aquatic animal models for the development of feed additives, immunostimulants and vaccines. In addition, the laboratory also performs research on the influence of bacterial toxins and biotoxins produced by micro-algae on aquatic animals. This aquaculture research happens in close collaboration with the UGent Laboratory of Aquaculture & Artemia Reference Center (ARC).

The Laboratory for Immunology and Animal Biotechnology offers the following services, in collaboration with the Laboratory of Aquaculture & ARC:

• Development of fish and shrimp experimental infection models;
• Evaluation of feed additives, immunostimulants and vaccines;
• Testing the negative effects of toxins on cell cultures and aquatic animal models;
• Operational Biosafety Level 3 (BSL3) facility.