In AquaCell, we propose to develop INTESTINAL CELL LINE MODEL for fish. Fish health and welfare relies on the intestinal functions but the wider knowledge-gap of the intestinal immune system of fish compared to mammals poses a barrier to the development of efficient tools to enhance fish immunity. The target groups of this bilateral initiative include the research teams of CIIMAR and Nord University engaged in ongoing research projects within the topic of fish health and welfare.

The goals for this bilateral initiative are 1) to create synergies between the aquaculture research line of CIIMAR and Nord University through exchange of technical skills and scientific know-how in the scope of the intestinal cell lines development; 2) to disseminate the acquired knowledge in scientific meetings; and 3) to promote future partnerships for joint research projects. The results from this bilateral initiative are expected to contribute to the following expected outcomes: 1) development of novel strategies capable of improving fish robustness, thereby reducing the need for antibiotics, while simultaneously increasing commercial production efficiency and aquaculture sector sustainability; and 2) reduce the animal-use and associated costs required for in vivo experiments, by taking advantage of the in vitro intestinal cell line that will be developed.The results obtained herein will provide the knowledge for future applications to research programs and funding bodies essential to pursue the research line. The in vitro cell line model will be used as an effective tool to predict fish health and such technological knowledge can be applied by the aquaculture industry, contributing to the sustainability of the sector.