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Dr. Cynthia Downs Leads $1.4 Million Study on Immune System Differences in Mammals
SYRACUSE, N.Y. – Jan. 7, 2025 - How do the smallest mammals, like mice, and the largest, like elephants, defend themselves from infections? That’s the question driving a $1.4 million National Science Foundation study led by Dr. Cynthia Downs, a professor at SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF).
Working with Dr. Jessica Brinkworth, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and Dr. Andreas Koenig, SUNY Upstate Medical University, the team will investigate how the antimicrobial functions of immune cells adapt to differences in body mass among mammals. Specifically, the team will study neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that helps fight infections. The study will compare how these cells function in mammals of different sizes, from a few grams to several hundred kilograms.
“This work could help us better understand how animals of all sizes stay healthy and how diseases spread across species,” said Downs.
The research will provide insights for predicting immune defenses in animals that haven’t been studied before, potentially improving how wildlife conservation and public health are approached.
In addition to the research, the project includes a community-focused educational program. ESF students will help create science exhibits for the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology (MoST) in Syracuse, designed to engage fifth-grade students from Syracuse City Schools. These exhibits aim to spark interest in science, particularly among groups underrepresented in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math).
The team will also visit local middle schools to teach students how to use microscopes, helping them explore the natural world through hands-on activities.
“This project isn’t just about science — it’s about sharing that science with the community and inspiring young minds,” said Downs.
About SUNY ESF
The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) is dedicated to the study of the environment, developing renewable technologies, and building a sustainable and resilient future through design, policy, and management of the environment and natural resources. Members of the College community share a passion for protecting the health of the planet and a deep commitment to the rigorous application of science to improve the way humans interact with the world. The College offers academic programs ranging from the associate of applied science to the Doctor of Philosophy. ESF students live, study and do research on the main campus in Syracuse, N.Y., and on 25,000 acres of field stations in a variety of ecosystems across the state.