NIH-funded research R21 grant

Finding specific gene promoters in ticks at different life stages

Official title: Identification of stage-and tissue-specific endogenous tick promoters

Funded at University of Nevada Reno · NIH-10896405 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how ticks use their genes at different stages of life to help find better ways to control tick-borne diseases.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Nevada Reno
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Reno, United States)
Project startAugust 1, 2023
Project endJuly 31, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$237,875
NIH project number5R21AI176352-02
Project IDNIH-10896405 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are individuals affected by tick-borne diseases or those interested in the biological mechanisms of ticks.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not affected by tick-borne diseases or have no interest in tick biology may not receive any benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how to identify and analyze gene promoters in ticks, which are crucial for understanding gene expression. By using a technique called ATAC-seq, the study aims to explore the accessibility of chromatin in tick tissues and life stages, allowing researchers to pinpoint which genes are active at specific times. The approach combines chromatin analysis with RNA sequencing to uncover genes that are differentially expressed, providing insights into tick biology and potential control methods. This research could lead to advancements in managing tick-borne diseases.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of tick biology and lead to better strategies for controlling tick-borne diseases.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success with similar genomic approaches in different organisms, indicating potential for this method in ticks.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Nevada Reno
    Reno, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Gulia-Nuss, Monika — University of Nevada Reno
  • Study coordinator: Gulia-Nuss, Monika

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.