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Disease Research at Hollings Marine Laboratory
Overview
HML scientists suspect that pollution of marine and estuarine waters increases human exposure and susceptibility to infectious diseases through the food they eat and the waters in which they work and play. Research investigators aim to understand how these diseases start, how they spread and how they ultimately can be prevented in key marine species like shrimp, oysters, coral, blue crabs, fish, and dolphins. Scientists and programs at the HML are well-prepared and well-equipped to monitor the impacts of environmental influences on marine organisms. These evaluations are conducted by assessing the response of the organisms by means of bioassays, monitoring physiological, immunological and transcriptional responses, as well as directly quantifying chemical contaminants or infection intensity/pathology. Research at the HML is directed at comparing exposed versus unexposed organisms, to discern stress-specific responses to both natural and anthropogenic stressors.