Identification of four genes expressed by feeding female Ixodes scapularis, including three with sequence similarity to previously recognized genes.

We created a cDNA library from feeding, female Ixodes scapularis ticks and screened the library with a subtracted probe to eliminate most genes common to feeding female and mating male I. scapularis ticks. Four unique genes were identified in this screen.

Mating, male Ixodes scapularis express several genes including those with sequence similarity to immunoglobulin-binding proteins and metalloproteases.

We created a cDNA library from mating, male Ixodes scapularis ticks and screened the library with a subtracted probe to eliminate genes common to feeding female and mating male I. scapularis ticks. A total of seven unique cDNAs were identified in this screen.

The prevalence of Borrelia burgdorfieri (Spirochaetales: spirochaetaceae) and the agent of human granulocytic ehrlichiosis (Rickettsiaceae: Ehrlichieae) in Ixodes scapularis (Acari:Ixodidae) collected during 1998 and 1999 from Minnesota.

We tested 103 adult Ixodes scapularis Say from 12 counties in Minnesota for the presence of Borrelia burgdorferi and the causative agent of human granulocytic ehrlichiosis (HGE), using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A total of 17 ticks (16.5%) was positive for B.