How is a tick studied in a laboratory? - briefly
Ticks are kept on controlled hosts or artificial feeding systems, then examined through microscopy, PCR, and serological assays to assess development, behavior, and pathogen load. Data from these analyses guide experimental investigations of tick biology and disease transmission.
How is a tick studied in a laboratory? - in detail
Laboratory investigation of ticks begins with the collection of specimens from the field or from established colonies. Collected individuals are identified to species and life stage using morphological keys or DNA barcoding, then sorted into cohorts for experimental use.
Maintenance of tick colonies requires controlled temperature (20‑28 °C), relative humidity (80‑95 %), and a photoperiod that mimics natural conditions. Substrate such as plaster‑vermiculite provides a suitable microenvironment for molting and oviposition. Regular cleaning prevents microbial contamination.
Feeding is achieved either by placing ticks on restrained laboratory animals (e.g., rabbits, mice) or by using artificial membrane systems that deliver warmed blood through silicone or parafilm membranes. The artificial method permits precise control of pathogen exposure and blood composition.
Experimental manipulation includes inoculation with bacteria, viruses, or protozoa to study vector competence, as well as RNA interference or CRISPR‑Cas9 techniques to silence or edit target genes. These interventions are performed under biosafety level 2 or higher containment, depending on the pathogen.
Analytical procedures encompass light and electron microscopy for anatomical studies, quantitative PCR and reverse transcription PCR for pathogen load and gene expression, next‑generation sequencing for transcriptome and microbiome profiling, and mass spectrometry for proteomic analysis. Immunofluorescence and ELISA assays detect specific antigens or antibodies.
Data generated from these methods are integrated using statistical software and bioinformatic pipelines to assess infection dynamics, host‑pathogen interactions, and the impact of genetic modifications. Results contribute to the development of control strategies and the understanding of tick biology.