Researchers Uncover How Bacteria Hijack Tick Cells to Survive and Spread

Researchers uncover how bacteria hijack tick cells to survive and spread

Washington State University researchers have discovered how the bacteria that cause anaplasmosis and Lyme disease hijack cellular processes in ticks to ensure their survival and spread to new hosts, including humans.

Bacteria Hijack Tick Cell Defenses to Spread Disease

PULLMAN, WA — Washington State University researchers have discovered how the bacteria that cause anaplasmosis and Lyme disease hijack cellular processes in ticks to ensure their survival and spread to new hosts, including humans. Based in the College of Veterinary Medicine, the team found that the bacteria can manipulate a protein known as ATF6, which helps cells detect and respond to infection, to support its own growth and survival inside the…