DETECTION OF THE BACTERIUM, BORRELIA BURGDORFERI IN IXODES SCAPULARIS AND DERMACENTOR VARIABILIS TICK SPECIES IN FREDERICK AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MARYLAND

Abstract

Ixodes scapularis and Dermacentor variabilis are two common human-biting tick species in Maryland, and can both carry the bacterium, Borrelia burgdorferi, which causes Lyme disease in humans. However, I. scapularis ticks are the only species that can transmit the disease, due to complexities in their gene regulation, and a more robust immune system in D. variabilis ticks. There is a lack of scientific studies on tick pathogen pervasiveness in Frederick and Montgomery County, MD, so this study was conducted to obtain preliminary data on the presence of B. burgdorferi among several locations in these counties. Ticks were grouped based on species, life stage, and location of collection, and DNA extraction was performed on each pool. PCR and gel electrophoresis were then performed to detect B. burgdorferi in tick pool groups. Out of 9 pools of I. scapularis ticks, 6 were positive for B. burgdorferi, and out of 5 pools of D. variabilis ticks, 3 were positive for B. burgdorferi.