We propose to generate the complete methylome for a model marine mammal, the elephant seal, under widely varying health states that reflect dramatic changes in body condition, energy status and immune status. This investigation will provide critical information for the use of epigenetic tools for health assessments in marine mammal species.

Our research team will develop new methods for quantifying behavioral responses of California sea lions exposed to military sonar. This research fills an important data gap because while California sea lions occur in high numbers in Navy testing and operational areas, controlled exposure experiments have never been conducted with this species.

The objective of this proposed effort is to determine the metabolic and immune system costs to chronic stress in the bottlenose dolphin. To this end, metabolic hormones and immune function markers are to be measured in concert with experimental manipulations of circulating cortisol and metabolic rate measurements. Dr. Daniel Crocker will provide the laboratory facilities to be used for most hormone and immune system marker. Dr. Crocker will also oversee the laboratory analyses and participate in data analyses and manuscript preparation.

There is a growing understanding that adipose tissue releases hormones (adipokines) that help regulate metabolism, immune function and reproduction. This study examines changes in blubber gene expression and blood concentrations of adipokines in naturally fasting elephant seals, examines their relationship to immune markers and reproductive hormones, and will provide novel information on how body condition influences health and reproduction in wildlife.