ORONO — Harbor seals in the Gulf of Maine have experienced several mass die-offs from viral outbreaks, while other seal species appear largely unaffected. A University of Maine student is investigating why some seals are more resistant to disease than others.
Jamie Fogg, a fourth-year marine science major, is studying the immunogenetic diversity of harp seals, focusing on the MHC-I gene, a key component of the adaptive immune system. The gene helps the immune system recognize virus-infected cells and trigger an immune response.
“Our seals are contracting these viruses and some species are showing higher rates of disease and mortality, where others are not,” Fogg said. “This leads us to the question, what is giving these seals immunity to these different viruses?”
Fogg’s study highlights UMaine’s commitment to learner-centered R1, hands-on research learning opportunities, in which undergraduate students work directly with faculty and industry partners to tackle challenges facing Maine communities. For her senior research, Fogg is working with Kristina Cammen in the School of Marine Sciences and partners from the regional marine stranding network.
Harp seals are an Arctic species that have been migrating to the Gulf of Maine more frequently in recent years. Researchers believe harp seals may be introducing viruses that other local seal species have not previously encountered.
“The reason seals are experiencing these viruses at such high rates is because they are social creatures and haul out in large groups,” Fogg said. “This is a great place for viruses to spread.”
Harp seals have been proposed as reservoir species, meaning they can carry viruses without severe illness and transmit them to more vulnerable populations, such as harbor seals. Without immunity to these viruses, outbreaks could threaten seal populations and disrupt the Gulf of Maine’s ecosystem.
By identifying why some seals survive viral outbreaks, Fogg’s work could help inform local conservation strategies and safeguard the health of a species that is both ecologically and culturally significant to the region.
Fogg’s research could have real-world implications for Maine’s coastal communities. Harbor seals are a familiar part of the Gulf of Maine ecosystem, contributing to biodiversity, local culture and balance of regional fisheries.
“They are a big draw of tourism and charismatic megafauna,” she said.
For Fogg, the project is more than an academic exercise. She is gaining hands-on experience in field research and genetic analysis. With the hope to continue working with marine mammals through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, she is building skills that will shape her future career.
Fogg is a NOAA Hollings Scholar, which allowed her to intern at NOAA’s Northeast Fisheries Science Center in Woods Hole, Massachusetts. As she continues her research, Fogg hopes her work will deepen scientists’ understanding of seal immunity and help protect the health of marine ecosystems along the Maine coast.
