Netting, tagging, transport, and vaccination of shrimp or fish often result in increased stress and infections caused by opportunistic pathogens. Damaged epidermis or cuticle provides a portal of entry to potentially deadly infective agents that bind preferentially to injured cells. Recent advances in nanotechnology and computer-assisted scanning instrumentation will be used to quantify progress toward developing economical, nanoparticle-based systems that effectively treat handling-associated skin lesions. In Phase I, we demonstrated that particles can be made to mimic the adherent properties of virulent pathogens that have developed their strategies for wound attachment over millions of years of evolution. After controlled descaleing of experimental fish, we will assess the ability of optimized particle treatments to reduce the frequency and severity of viral, bacterial, and fungal infections. Fluorescent coated particles will also be used to observe the precise attachment locations, as well as the binding effects of various coatings, using laser scanning and UV fluorescence microscopy. A duel targeted nanoparticle design should significantly reduce the development of viral, bacterial, and fungal diseases by competitively binding to both exposed injuries and pathogens present in treated water. SUMMARY OF
Anticipated Results: Commercialization of this research in Phase III will result in a new platform technology using nontoxic nanoparticle products that will be applicable to both fresh-water and marine aquatic species. Proprietary nanoparticles will be combined with innovative coating compounds to stimulate epithelial cell covering and wound healing. These systems should also reduce infectivity by binding directly to pathogens. Unlike antifungal or antibiotic feed additives, the particles will be compatible with biological recirculation filter systems and environmentally benign. It should be possible to handle and raise a variety of aquatic species previously thought to be too susceptible to pathogens. This low-cost treatment system has the potential to solve the recurring problems of infections in fish or shrimp following stressful routine handling procedures.
