Screening for the "Achilles Heel" of Hyalomma anatolicum Ticks by RNA Interference Technology and an Update on Anti-Tick Vaccine Design.

Abstract

Over the years, RNA interference (RNAi) has evolved as a valuable tool to study the tick gene function, screening and preliminary characterization of tick-protective antigens in a relatively short time, with a minimal use of laboratory animals before conducting expensive vaccine trials for the development of improved vaccine composition. In this process, a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) of gene of interest is introduced into the tick system which specifically suppresses expression of a target gene. The results of RNAi-based gene silencing were interpreted by reduction in targeted gene transcript, changes in phenotypic data and anatomical/ biochemical changes in ticks; thereby, providing a clue to the probable role played by the gene in the tick biological system. Across the globe, various tick research groups applied RNAi techniquefor characterization and identification of new anti-tick vaccine targets. Herein, we used the RNAi tool in Hyalomma anatolicum ticks for identification and characterization of vaccine candidates.