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New Northeastern Lab Plumbs the Mysteries of the Ticks and Bacteria that Cause Lyme
In a groundbreaking discovery, researchers at Northeastern University’s Bouvé College of Health Sciences have made significant progress in understanding the complex relationships between ticks, bacteria, and the development of Lyme disease. The study, published in the journal Science Advances, sheds new light on the tick-borne disease that affects thousands of people each year.
Led by Dr. John Gomes, the research team at Northeastern’s Institute for Systems Medicine has developed a comprehensive model that predicts how the bacteria that causes Lyme disease, Borrelia burgdorferi, interacts with the tick that transmits it, Ixodes scapularis. This knowledge will aid in the development of more effective diagnostic tests, treatments, and prevention strategies.
What we know so far
Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne illness in the United States, with cases reported in all 50 states. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were over 35,000 reported cases of Lyme disease in the United States in 2020.
The bacteria that causes Lyme disease is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected blacklegged tick, which is commonly found in woodsy, brushy areas, as well as in grassy, leaf-strewn areas.
Symptoms of Lyme disease include fever, headache, and fatigue, which can begin within three to 30 days after a tick bite. If left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to serious complications, such as arthritis, neurological problems, and heart issues.
Northeastern’s Breakthrough Research
The research team at Northeastern University has developed a mathematical model that simulates the interaction between Borrelia burgdorferi and Ixodes scapularis. The model takes into account various factors, including the tick’s feeding behavior, the bacteria’s growth rate, and the immune response of the host.
According to Dr. Gomes, the model reveals that the bacteria that causes Lyme disease manipulates the tick’s behavior to increase its chances of being transmitted to a new host.
"The bacteria essentially takes control of the tick’s decision-making process, telling it to attach to the host for a longer period and to move to areas where it’s more likely to feed on blood," said Dr. Gomes. "This understanding can inform the development of more effective treatments and prevention strategies."
What’s Next?
The research team plans to use the model to investigate other tick-borne diseases, such as babesiosis and anaplasmosis. The ultimate goal is to develop a comprehensive understanding of the complex interactions between ticks, bacteria, and humans.
In the meantime, experts are urging people to take steps to prevent tick bites, including:
- Conducting regular tick checks after spending time outdoors
- Using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing
- Creating a tick-free zone around homes and yards
- Reporting any tick bites or potential exposure to healthcare providers
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New Northeastern lab plumbs the mysteries of the ticks and bacteria that cause Lyme – Northeastern Global News
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