Evaluating the Effects of Stressors on Immune Function during Simulated Dives in Marine Mammals
Abstract
The overall goals of this research are to investigate the response of marine mammal immune cells to simulated dives, and to evaluate the effects of stressors on this response. The study will investigate both innate and acquired immune function in both beluga whales and seals in response to challenges associated with diving (i.e., pressure), both with and without the presence of an additional stressor. The specific objectives of this effort are as follows: (1) to investigate the effects of simulated dive exposures on cellular immune function in beluga whales, (2) to evaluate the effects of simulated dive exposures on cellular immune function following a known stressor event, (3) to collect biological samples from wild belugas to compare with aquarium whales, and (4) to compare the effects of simulated dive exposures on cellular immune function in seals between stranding (stressor) and release (healthy).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 30, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA599702
Entities
People
- Laura Thompson
- Tracy Romano
Organizations
- Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration