Technical Program

3. Biotechnology
3d. Molecular immune response mechanisms of fish
Fish species have been the subject of intense scientific studies because of their evolutionary and economic importance. Immune systems in fish, in particular, have been thoroughly investigated at the molecular level because such information is directly linked to knowing how these organisms defend against invading pathogens i.e. what molecules they utilize and how they utilize it. Understanding of fish molecular immune response has lead to a deeper understanding of immunity in higher vertebrates as well as the development of strategies and methods in aquaculture industries that prevent or minimize the impact of diseases. As with other vertebrates, fish are essentially composed of an innate and adaptive immune system. This sub-session covers recent studies on the immune system of fish at the molecular level.