Adrian Smith Ph.D.
Profile
I am interested in understanding the interaction of the coral immune system with infections, commensal microbes and endosymbionts.
The knowledge gained through this study provides a better understanding of the basic biology of corals immune systems and gives an integrated view of the host-pathogens interactions within coral reefs. We employ a range of approaches including genetics, molecular biology and functional studies.
The complex interactions between corals, pathogens, commensals and endosymbionts is fascinating. Understanding these interactions is key in developing new strategies to protect these threatened communities for future generations.
Biography
My Project
Other interests
The Comparative Infection and Immunity research group (CIIRG) has diverse interests in the comparative biology of infection and immunity; working with a wide range of hosts, microbes and pathogens. Our area of interest concerns the evolution of the host immune system and the diversity of problems and solutions associated with infectious challenge whilst maintaining a positive interaction with commensal microbes. We have ongoing projects on the evolution of pattern recognition receptors in vertebrates, the fundamental biology of vertebrate adaptive immunity as well as immunity in corals. The group also investigates functional population genetics of immune receptors in various species including penguins. One of our recent studies has just described a unique aspect of macrophage biology in the European Badger that may explain susceptibility to bovine tuberculosis.
Additionally, the group is interested in factors affecting the population structure of the microbiome and diversity of Campylobacter in different types of poultry. Lastly, members of the CIIRG work on pathogen/host ancient DNA to interrogate past events (e.g. human parasites in relation to diet and trade)