معرفی
Leon Grayfer is an Associate Professor of Biology at the Columbian College of Arts & Sciences, George Washington University. He leads the Grayfer Lab, focusing on comparative immunology and antimicrobial defenses in aquatic vertebrates, particularly amphibians like Xenopus laevis. His research emphasizes understanding innate immune mechanisms against pathogens such as ranaviruses, mycobacteria, and chytrid fungi.
Key research areas include amphibian macrophage and granulocyte differentiation, viral immune evasion strategies, and myelopoiesis segregation in frogs. The lab investigates how immune cell subsets in tadpoles and adult frogs differ in resisting pathogens like Frog Virus 3 (FV3) and Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). They also explore amphibian immune interactions with probiotics and environmental stressors like atrazine.
Recent studies highlight unique myelopoiesis strategies in amphibians, with bone marrow and liver serving distinct roles in blood cell development. The lab’s work contributes to amphibian conservation efforts, particularly against global disease threats. Dr. Grayfer currently offers funded PhD opportunities for students interested in these topics.
His research integrates molecular, cellular, and ecological approaches, with a focus on One Health principles to address amphibian and reptile disease challenges globally. Collaborative projects include studies on sea urchin immunity and interdisciplinary approaches to disease mitigation.
