Understanding how seasonal changes affect tick-borne diseases
Impacts of phenology on disease transmission dynamics
This project helps us understand how seasonal changes in tick activity influence the spread of diseases like Lyme disease to people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11141639 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that the activity of ticks changes throughout the year, and these seasonal patterns can greatly affect how diseases spread. This project looks at how these changes in tick activity, known as phenology, impact the risk of people getting sick from three common tick-borne diseases. Researchers will use computer models and real-world data from natural areas to better understand these complex relationships. The goal is to learn how different seasonal scenarios influence disease transmission and human health risks.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research does not involve direct patient participation, but aims to benefit communities at risk of tick-borne diseases.
Not a fit: Individual patients will not receive direct medical treatment or intervention from this particular research project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to better predictions of tick-borne disease outbreaks and improved public health strategies to protect communities.
How similar studies have performed: While some aspects of disease transmission are understood, the specific consequences of seasonal variation on complex zoonotic disease systems like tick-borne illnesses remain notably under-studied.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brisson, Dustin — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Brisson, Dustin
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 below.