Understanding how ticks respond to infections and stress
Tick-Pathogen Interactions: Exploring the Intersection between Stress Responses and Immunity
This study looks at how ticks, which can spread diseases like Lyme disease, react to infections and stress, hoping to find new ways to help control these diseases by understanding how ticks' immune systems work differently from other insects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10875621 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how ticks, which can carry diseases like Lyme disease and Anaplasmosis, respond to infections and stress at a cellular level. By studying the immune responses of ticks, particularly focusing on a unique pathway that differs from other insects, the research aims to uncover how these responses affect the ticks' ability to transmit pathogens. The study utilizes advanced molecular techniques to explore the interactions between tick immunity and stress responses, which could lead to new insights into controlling tick-borne diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in areas where tick-borne diseases are prevalent, particularly those who have been diagnosed with Lyme disease or Anaplasmosis.
Not a fit: Patients who do not live in tick-endemic regions or those who have no history of tick exposure may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating tick-borne diseases in humans.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding immune responses in other arthropods, but this specific approach to tick immunity is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Pullman, United States
- Washington State University — Pullman, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shaw, Dana Kathleen — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Shaw, Dana Kathleen
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.