Intracellular pathogens
Intracellular bacteria represent some of the most elusive and impactful pathogens in aquaculture. These organisms, capable of invading and surviving within host cells, are responsible for a wide range of diseases in farmed fish—with effects ranging from chronic inflammation to tissue destruction and significant economic losses. Their intracellular lifestyle complicates diagnostics, immune recognition, and treatment, especially when conventional therapeutics struggle to reach their cellular niches.
This workshop brings together current knowledge and cutting-edge research on both obligate intracellular pathogens (such as Rickettsia and Chlamydia) and facultative intracellular bacteria (Renibacterium, Mycobacterium, Nocardia, and intracellular forms of Vibrio, Photobacterium, and Francisella). Special attention will be given to notable disease complexes such as epitheliocystis and Piscirickettsia salmonis infections—pathologies that are no longer geographically confined and continue to evolve alongside aquaculture practices.
Advancements in molecular biology and genomics are transforming how we understand these pathogens: from taxonomy and transmission to host-pathogen interactions and potential routes of control. This workshop will highlight these developments and explore how genome-based tools are reshaping surveillance, diagnostics, and disease management strategies for intracellular bacterial infections in aquatic species.
Whether you’re working in fish health, microbial genomics, or aquaculture biosecurity, this session offers a deep dive into a rapidly evolving field with broad implications for sustainability and fish welfare.
Dr. Hamish Rodger, Dr. Maria Chiara Cascarano, Dr. Pantelis Katharios and Dr. Francesc (Sito) Padros, will be among the speakers of the workshop.
1. Welcome by P. Katharios and F. Padrós
Dr. Pantelis Katharios (HCMR)
2. Intracellular bacteria in fish diseases: a general overview and a particular focus love-hate story between bacteria and host cells
Dr. Hamish Roger (PATOGEN AS)
3. Piscirickettsia salmonis and related species: what we know and what is new in Europe
Dr. Francesc (Sito) Padros (Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona)
4. RLO, midichlorians and other Star Wars stuff in red mark and other skin syndromes
Dr. Maria Chiara Cascarano,(HCMR)
5. Epitheliocystis in a nutshell: all you wanted to know
6. Round table discussion
