Understanding how Anaplasma bacteria adapt to ticks
Official title: Exploring Tr1-regulated transcription networks underpinning adaptation of pathogenic Anaplasma to the tick host
Funded at Washington State University · NIH-10874597 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific bacteria that causes tick-borne diseases learns to live in ticks, focusing on a key protein that helps it adapt, which could help us find better ways to prevent these illnesses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $163,213 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI178392-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10874597 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with tick-borne diseases or are at high risk of exposure to ticks.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have tick-borne diseases or are not exposed to ticks may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the Anaplasma phagocytophilum bacteria adapt to survive in ticks, which are their arthropod hosts. The study focuses on the role of a specific transcription factor, Tr1, that is crucial for the bacteria's ability to thrive in the tick environment. By examining the genetic changes that occur when the bacteria infect tick cells compared to mammalian cells, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that allow these pathogens to successfully navigate two very different host environments. This work could lead to new insights into tick-borne diseases and potential strategies for controlling them.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for tick-borne diseases in humans and animals.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding pathogen adaptation to hosts, but this specific focus on Anaplasma in ticks is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington State University
Pullman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Park, Jason Michael — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Park, Jason Michael
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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.