Identification and characterisation of enzymes involved in pyrethroid resistance in the cattle tick, Rhipicephalus microplus (HLS/SE/DRFAPP7P/63587)

Chemical spraying is the most effective method of controlling populations of medically and veterinary vectors of disease such as mosquitoes, ticks and mites. Despite its effectiveness this method of control is facing a growing number of issues including increased incidences of resistance in vector populations and tighter restrictions on the compounds that can be used. Key to addressing both of these issues is the identification of enzymes involved in the metabolism of these pesticides which will provide an insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying resistance and facilitate the development of new/better/safer compounds. Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus - the cattle tick – is an important vector of Babesiosis in cattle and controlling infestations costs the industry billions of dollars globally each year. Identification of resistance to numerous pesticides has been well characterised in this tick however very little research has been done to deciphering the mechanisms underlying its development. Up until recently, research in this area, including the identification of drug metabolising enzymes, has been hindered by the lack of available annotated genome data, an issue which is now being addressed by several groups leading to the generation of partial genome sequences and transcriptome databases. This project will use a novel protein tagging/purification approach based on the use of Activity-Based Probes in conjunction with available transcriptomic data to identify and isolation enzymes involved in the metabolism of pyrethroids, the most commonly used group of pesticides, from R. microplus. Identification of these enzymes will allow investigation into their roles in the detoxification of pesticides and development of resistance and additionally facilitate the screening for new compounds from a more mechanistic point of view identifying not only substrates but also inhibitors which may be used in combined treatment strategies resulting in a reduction of pesticide dosage creating safer/more efficient control methods and preventing resistance.

Informal Enquiries
Enquiries regarding this studentship should be made to:
Dr. Robert Finn – [Email Address Removed]

For further details of how to apply, entry requirements and the application form, see
https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/research/postgraduate-research-degrees/how-to-apply/

Please ensure you quote the advert reference above on your application form.

Eligibility
For further details of how to apply, entry requirements and the application form, see
https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/research/postgraduate-research-degrees/how-to-apply/

Please ensure you quote the advert reference above on your application form.

How to Apply
For further details of how to apply, entry requirements and the application form, see
https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/research/postgraduate-research-degrees/how-to-apply/

Please ensure you quote the advert reference above on your application form.