Exploring how a tick's internal bacteria may produce antibiotics.
Official title: Investigating putative antimicrobial product biosynthesis in a tick endosymbiont.
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11037054 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a type of bacteria in blacklegged ticks that might help protect them from harmful germs, and by understanding how it works, we hope to find new ways to keep people safe from tick-borne diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | November 14, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $232,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI188109-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11037054 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in areas where tick-borne diseases are prevalent.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not live in tick-endemic regions or those who are not at risk for tick-borne diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific bacteria found in blacklegged ticks, which may produce antimicrobial substances that help prevent infections from other harmful bacteria. By analyzing the genetic makeup of this bacteria, the study aims to understand how it protects ticks from diseases that they could otherwise transmit to humans. The research involves laboratory experiments to test the antibacterial properties of these substances and their effects on tick health and disease resistance. Patients may benefit from insights gained about tick-borne diseases and potential new treatments derived from these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing tick-borne diseases in humans.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the protective roles of tick symbionts, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cull, Benjamin — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Cull, Benjamin
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.