Host immunity to ticks.
The tick-host-pathogen interface is characterized by complex immunological interactions. Tick feeding induces host immune regulatory and effector pathways involving antibodies, complement, antigen-presenting cells, T lymphocytes, and other bioactive molecules. Acquired resistance impairs tick engorgement, ova production, and viability. Tick countermeasures to host defenses reduce T-lymphocyte proliferation, elaboration of the TH1 cytokines interleukin-2 and interferon-gamma, production of macrophage cytokines interleukin-1 and tumor necrosis factor, and antibody responses. The dynamic balance between acquired resistance and tick modulation of host immunity affects engorgement and pathogen transmission. A thorough understanding of acquired immunity to ticks is essential for rational development of antitick vaccines.
Department of Entomology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater 74078, USA.
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Wikel
D000818:Animals; D006790:Host-Parasite Interactions; D006801:Humans; D007109:Immunity; D013984:Tick Infestations / Q000276:immunology*; D013987:Ticks / Q000276:immunology*