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Tick Microbiome Characterization by Next-Generation 16S rRNA Amplicon Sequencing
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Rickettsia amblyommatis in Ticks: A Review of Distribution, Pathogenicity, and Diversity

Elise A Richardson1, R Michael Roe1, Charles S Apperson1

  • 1Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA.

Microorganisms
|February 25, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Rickettsia amblyommatis, a tick-borne bacterium, is widespread globally. Further research is needed to clarify its role as a human pathogen and its impact on diagnosing other spotted fever group rickettsial infections.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Epidemiology
  • Vector-borne diseases

Background:

  • Rickettsia amblyommatis is a tick-borne bacterium within the spotted fever group.
  • Its pathogenicity and role in interfering with diagnostics for other Rickettsia species are debated.
  • High infection prevalence of R. amblyommatis has been noted globally in tick populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review existing literature on R. amblyommatis.
  • To analyze its geographic distribution, tick vectors, and pathogenicity.
  • To assess international strain relatedness via phylogenetic analysis and identify future research needs.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and compilation of existing studies.
  • Geographic distribution and tick vector analysis.
  • Phylogenetic analysis of international R. amblyommatis strains.

Main Results:

  • R. amblyommatis exhibits a wide global distribution in various tick vectors.
  • Evidence suggests potential pathogenicity, though its clinical significance remains under investigation.
  • Phylogenetic analysis reveals distinct international strain variations.

Conclusions:

  • Clarifying the epidemiological significance of R. amblyommatis as a human pathogen is crucial.
  • Understanding its inhibitory effect on diagnostic tests for other spotted fever group Rickettsia is essential for public health.
  • Further research is required to definitively establish its role in human disease and diagnostics.
Keywords:
Amblyomma americanumAmblyomma spp.Rickettsia amblyommatislone star ticktick-borne pathogens

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