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The tick species Ixodes ricinus, present throughout Europe, is a potential vector for many pathogens: viruses, bacteria (including the one responsible for Lyme disease), protozoa, etc. Knowledge of the tick genome should provide clues to better manage the risks of pathogen transmission, and to optimize the fight against the vector itself (vaccines, targeted chemical control). Furthermore, the study of the tick genome and its variability will make it possible to identify the genetic bases of certain traits (such as the ability to harbour and transmit certain pathogens). Finally, the genome sequence will shed light on how selection has shaped and adapted this genome over the course of evolution.

The "ticks" group of UMR BIOEPAR is the pilot of the project. It will coordinate the scientific community studying this genome, participate in the analyses (annotation, analysis of genomic diversity) and ensure the dissemination of the information represented by the genome sequence.

Partners: Genoscope,(Evry) thanks to funding from the "Grands projets de séquençage" call for tenders from France Génomique (Investissements d'Avenir) will ensure sequencing and assembly, while several partners mainly in Rennes (IRISA, Genouest) will participate in the bioinformatics analyses. Finally, several laboratories across Europe will participate in annotation and functional analyses on genes of interest.

Scientific contact(s) : Claude Rispe