Dr Christopher J Coates, MRSB

Role: Unspecified

CSAR and Department of Biosciences,
College of Science,
Swansea University,
Swansea SA2 8PP

My research is focussed on the molecular, biochemical and cellular properties of invertebrate innate immunity, particularly those animals that are exploited commercially: Norway lobster (Nephrops norvegicus), horseshoe crabs (Limulus polyphemus) and edible crabs (Cancer pagurus). Specific areas of interest include: 

• Investigating the physiological condition and immune-competence of shellfish at various stages of the post-harvest cycle (handling, storage and transport)
• Characterising the activation, regulation and inhibition of oxygen-transport proteins, namely haemocyanin and phenoloxidase
• Tackling issues of hyperpigmentation (melanosis) in shrimp, pre- and post mortem
• Developing health status indicators (biomarkers) in cultured and fresh-caught shellfish
• Using a multi-disciplinary approach to reduce spoilage and discard rates of commercial shellfish

Keywords: Shellfish; Melanosis; Innate Immunity; Discards; Stress