Scientists uncover how ticks defend themselves against a deadly virus

By studying the virus in tick cells, scientist from the University of Surrey have identified two novel antivirals effectors. This discovery could help scientists prevent diseases from spreading from tick to humans in the future.   

The study, published in Nature Communications, analysed Rhipicephalus microplus tick cells, common carriers of SFTSV, using advanced multi-data analysis to unravel the ticks’ cellular responses to the virus.   

The researchers pinpointed how two RNA helicases, essential proteins found in all forms of life, were critical in reducing SFTSV’s replication within the ticks. The two RNA helicases, UPF1 and DHX9, were in fact found to interfere with the virus' ability to copy itself, essentially putting a wrench in its reproductive cycle.