Unravelling mediterranean aquaculture pathogens advancing diagnostic and vaccine like solutions

Project summary

Aquaculture has grown steadily in the Mediterranean in recent decades, particularly for Sparus aurata (Gilthead seabream) and Dicentrarchus labrax (European seabass), which represent 25% of European aquaculture production value. Sustainable aquaculture is a vital component of the Farm-to-Fork strategy, promoting both environmental stewardship and economic prosperity. However, most fish production is conducted in open cages, which inevitably leads to exposure to pathogens, representing a considerable and growing risk for the industry. Therefore, the early detection of diseases is of utmost importance. While recent advances in early detection tools have seen ashift from traditional methods to molecular and probe-based diagnostics - enhancing the specificity, sensitivity, and speed of pathogen identification - they still remain insufficient to prevent major production losses.

Their application is fairly limited due to the lack of robust databases to support them. Moreover, emerging pathogens or changes in the antimicrobial resistance profiles of pathogens pose a considerable threat to aquaculture, impacting both the health of aquatic species and economic sustainability. Further, the development of effective immune-boosting solutions to control disease is paramount for fish welfare. Continued research and development of new diagnostic technologies and vaccine-like solutions are essential to achieve the EU goal of accelerating the transition to a sustainable food system. The aim of AquaMed is to fill in the knowledge gaps on pathogens affecting seabream and seabass aquaculture by developing rapid, accurate, and reliable diagnostic tools based on MALDI-ToF and ddPCR. The ultimate goal is to develop vaccine-like solutions through the encapsulation of immunogenic peptides. This is a promising and innovative approach to improve disease management in aquaculture and ensure the sustainability of the industry while improving animal welfare.