Gene Expression Associated with Tick Immunity and Ehrlichial Biology in the Tick Host

Our research describes the transcriptional profiles of Ixodes scapularis nymphs under Ehrlichia muris infection at 24hrs and 48hrs post-infection. Transcripts related to immune processes such as fibronectins, granulins, galectins and leucine-rich proteins, ROS production and lipid droplet formation as a defense mechanism were identified. In turn, I. scapularis shows a response to the effects caused by infection by elevating transcript levels related to homeostatic mechanisms and mitigation of cellular stress.