Understanding how ticks respond to infections
Official title: Characterization of innate immune signaling pathways in the tick Ixodes scapularis
Funded at Harvard Medical School · NIH-11158400 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how ticks, which can spread Lyme disease, fight off germs, and by comparing their immune system to other insects, the researchers hope to find new ways to help prevent tick-borne illnesses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 8, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $831,622 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI186279-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11158400 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals living in areas where Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses 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 receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the immune signaling pathways in the tick Ixodes scapularis, which is known to transmit Lyme disease and other pathogens. By comparing the tick's immune genes with those of other insects, the study aims to uncover unique aspects of tick immunity that could help in preventing tick-borne diseases. The researchers are utilizing advanced techniques such as single-cell RNA sequencing and molecular genetic methods to analyze tick immune cells and their interactions with pathogens. This approach could lead to new strategies for controlling tick populations and reducing disease transmission.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for preventing tick-borne diseases, benefiting public health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding tick immunity and its implications for disease prevention, indicating that this approach is building on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard Medical School
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Perrimon, Norbert — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Perrimon, Norbert
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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.