Ethanol inactivation of orthonairoviruses in ixodid ticks

A simple improved method for extracting DNA from ethanol-preserved hard ticks and its applications

Hard tick exoskeletons, composed primarily of chitin, pose a significant challenge for researchers attempting to extract genetic material. This study presents a simple modified, alternative method for extracting DNA from ethanol-preserved hard ticks. The extracted DNA was further used for PCR amplification of phylogenetic markers for population genetics studies. The study also improvises the DNA extraction methods from commercial kits. We have used four DNA extraction methods: Modified Simple Alkaline Lysis, and other commercial kit-based methods (Kit X, Kit Y & Kit Z). The modified method for DNA extraction yielded comparable results in terms of concentration, and purity from all the life stages (adult, nymph, and larvae). The extracted DNA from each method was quantified and subjected to PCR amplification of molecular markers, ITS-1 and ITS-2. The nucleotide sequences from both markers were characterized for the first time and used for phylogenetic analysis of Amblyomma integrum, which is a potential vector for Kyasanur Forest Disease Virus (KFDV), causing monkey fever disease in India. These results demonstrate a cost-effective approach for isolating genomic DNA suitable for PCR amplification and subsequent nucleotide sequencing. Importantly, this simple method offers an option for population genetics study in resource-limited settings, facilitating field research with minimal equipment requirements. Additionally, the study showed tick homogenization can significantly improve DNA yield from commercial kits.

All for One Health and One Health for All: Considerations for Successful Citizen Science Projects Conducting Vector Surveillance from Animal Hosts

Many vector-borne diseases that affect humans are zoonotic, often involving some animal host amplifying the pathogen and infecting an arthropod vector, followed by pathogen spillover into the human population via the bite of the infected vector. As urbanization, globalization, travel, and trade continue to increase, so does the risk posed by vector-borne diseases and spillover events. With the introduction of new vectors and potential pathogens as well as range expansions of native vectors, it is vital to conduct vector and vector-borne disease surveillance. Traditional surveillance methods can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, especially when surveillance involves sampling from animals. In order to monitor for potential vector-borne disease threats, researchers have turned to the public to help with data collection. To address vector-borne disease and animal conservation needs, we conducted a literature review of studies from the United States and Canada utilizing citizen science efforts to collect arthropods of public health and veterinary interest from animals. We identified common stakeholder groups, the types of surveillance that are common with each group, and the literature gaps on understudied vectors and populations. From this review, we synthesized considerations for future research projects involving citizen scientist collection of arthropods that affect humans and animals.