Cells of the immune systemGranulocytes and macrophages are the purveyors of the immune system and are the first to respond to injury and infection. We are currently studying the mechanisms by which amphibians generate distinct macrophage and granulocyte immune subsets and the roles of these cell subpopulations in vertebrate health and disease.
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Viruses, bacteria and fungiVertebrate species encounter many distinct types of pathogens, including viral, bacterial and fungal infectious agents. We are interested in defining the amphibian determinants of successful anti-viral, anti-mycobacterial and anti-fungal immunity, towards improving both amphibian and human health.
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Immune interactionsThe immune response is a highly coordinated process, involving numerous tissues and cell types. Accordingly, we are adopting comprehensive approaches to discern the relationships between distinct immune cell populations and the pathogens that challenge them, in the context of the amphibian physiology.
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