Richard  Cooper

Associate Professor, Aquatic Diseases

M.S.  Mississippi State University

Ph.D.  University of Georgia

 

Research Interests

Research interests include enhancing the immune system of aquatic species through transgenic mechanisms.  Specifically, genes encoding lytic peptides under control of an inducible promoter are studied for their ability to prevent diseases, especially in channel catfish.  Promoter regulation is studied in depth to further understand the acute phase response in aquatic organisms.  Gene delivery mechanisms are being developed for optimizing gene incorporation into the recipient genome.  Live attenuated vaccines are being developed for Flavobacterium columnare and used to determine pathogenic mechanisms of the bacterium.  Dr. Cooper participates in the Multidisciplinary Program in Infectious Disease.

Selected Publications

Lawrence M. L., R. K. Cooper and R. L. Thune. 1997. Attenuation, persistence, and vaccine potential of an Edwardsiella ictaluri purA mutant. Infection and Immunity. 65(11):4642-4651.

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