Immunology of the tick-host interaction and the control of ticks and tick-borne diseases

The first experimental vaccination against ticks carried out 60 years ago. Since then, progress has been slow , although the recent commercial release of rr recombinant vaccine against Boophilus microplus is significant. The nature of naturally acquired protective immunity against ticks is poorly un derstood, particularly in the important, domesticated ruminant hosts. Chara cterization of the antigens of naturally acquired immunity remains limited, although more has been achieved with 'concealed' antigens. Crucial questio ns remain about the true impact of tick-induced immunosuppression and the e ffect of immunity on the transmission of tick-borne diseases, despite some fascinating and important recent results, as discussed here by Peter Willad sen and Frans Jongejan.