The Ticks and The Tock: Unravelling the Immune Battle at the Bite Site and Beyond.

Objective

Ticks are ectoparasites and major vectors of human and animal pathogens. Vector-borne diseases are an increasing threat in Europe, yet the molecular immunology of host responses to tick bites remains poorly understood. Tick saliva suppresses immunity, and although type 2 granulocytes such as mast cells, basophils, and eosinophils are recruited and activated at the bite site, their role in anti-tick immunity is unclear. Similarly, sensory neurons are emerging as important regulators of skin immunity and have been suggested as targets of tick effector mechanisms. This MSCA project will decrypt immune responses to tick bites and identify roles of type 2 granulocytes and sensory neurons in adaptive and innate immune memory of tick infestation. The objectives are to (1) characterise cutaneous and immune molecular responses to tick infestation, (2) define granulocytic and neuronal contributions to adaptive immunity, and (3) explore inflammatory imprinting and memory of type 2 granulocytes and sensory neurons. Combining innovative in vivo tick infestation and genetic mouse models with cutting-edge profiling approaches, this fellowship will provide the applicant with new expertise, expand collaborations, and support career progression. By advancing our understanding of anti-tick immunity, this project will strengthen European research capacity, and improve readiness and treatment strategies against vector-borne diseases.