Charles H. Bigger
|
B. S. Biology, Florida State University, 1968
M. S. Biological Science, Florida State University, 1976
Ph.D. Biological Science, Florida State University, 1978
Research in the laboratory of Dr. Charles Bigger focuses on immune responses
(histocompatibility, disease resistance, and wound healing) of selected marine
animals including, currently: (1) two species of gorgonian coral, (2) marine
mammals, dolphins and manatees (with Dr. G. Bossart, Harbor Branch), and (3)
several sponge species. This work is significant as a part of immunological
theory and in terms of the health and well-being of the animals under study,
which are of economic and/or public concern. Because the research is being
performed at the population, organismal, cellular and genetic levels, a wide
variety of techniques are employed, including: in situ marine studies, in
vivo laboratory experiments, in vitro cellular assays, light, transmission
electron and scanning electron microscopy, and various molecular procedures.
Because tissue interactions in sessile marine animals, such as sponges and
corals, happen as normal occurrences, not just surgical artifacts, these intraspecific
recognitions have importance in understanding ecology as well as elucidating
basic immunological principals that might be applicable across a broad phylogenetic
spectrum.
For a variety of theoretical and practical considerations, Dr. Bigger’s
Group has chosen to work with two species of gorgonian corals. The two chosen
were the sea whips, Swiftia exserta, lacking endosymbiotic zooxanthellae,
and Plexurella fusifera that hosts photosynthetic zooxanthellae. Their research
has centered on allogeneic histoincompatibility as an adaptive immune response
and wound healing and phagocytosis as innate defense processes. In collaboration
with Dr. Sylvia Smith, the recent, on-going examinations of gorgonian genes
in S. exserta have characterized at least one member of an important immunological
gene family (Complement C3/Alpha 2 Macroglobulin). Several other genes of
immunological interest are also being pursued.
Meszaros, A. and C.H. Bigger (1999) Qualitative and quantitative
study of wound
healing processes in the coelenterate, Plexaurella fusifera: spatial, temporal,
and environmental (light attenuation) influences. J. Invert. Pathology 73:
321-331.
Olano, C.T. & C.H. Bigger. Phagocytic activities of the gorgonian
coral Swiftia exserta.
(2000) J. Invert. Pathology 76: 176-184.