Translational biotechnology for the control of ticks and tick-borne diseases

Ticks and tick-borne diseases (TBD) represent a challenge for human and animal health worldwide. Climate change, distribution of tick hosts, and ecological and anthropogenically-induced changes contribute to the geographic expansion of ticks and tick-borne pathogens. Traditional control methods are based on the use of acaricides to reduce tick infestations, but vaccines represent a more effective, sustainable and environmentally sound approach for the control of ticks and TBD. Recent application of omics technologies to the study of the mechanisms involved in tick-host-pathogen interactions have advanced the characterization of molecular mechanisms involved in TBD and the identification of candidate vaccine protective antigens. However, as discussed in this opinion paper, translational biotechnology may translate into novel interventions required to advance in addressing the challenge that ticks and TBD represent for world health and economy.