Evolution of Male Pregnancy
We investigate the genetic and immunological adaptations that enable the unique evolution of male pregnancy in syngnathids, seeking to understand how parental investment and pregnancy evolve in vertebrates.

Immune System Modulation We examine the evolutionary flexibility of vertebrate immune systems, particularly how modifications in syngnathid immunity facilitated the emergence of male pregnancy. By studying how immune function changes in response to reproductive investment, we uncover the trade-offs between reproduction and immunity.

Host-Microbe Interactions We explore the relationships between syngnathids and their microbiomes, from mutualistic to pathogenic interactions, and how these shape immune responses. Understanding host-microbe co-evolution provides key insights into the role of microbiomes in health and disease.

Coevolution of life-history and immune dynamics Using syngnathids as a model, we disentangle the effect of sex, reproductive strategy and life history on immune function, offering new perspective on the evolution of immune strategies and immunological variation in veretebrate.