In numerous organisms, proteases and their proteinaceous inhibitors constitute a major defence mechanism. As vectors are in constant touch with pathogens their proteolytic activity is of crucial importance. In Ixodes ricinus (IR), the main vector of Lyme disease in Europe, the midgut cells process bloodmeal particles as well as provide a major barrier to a pathogen invasion. Tick salivary secretion plays a indispensable role in both bloodmeal completion and inadvertant pathogen transmission. This thesis describes 3 IRcystatins, cysteine protease inhibitors, using standard biochemical and molecular protocols. Moreover, this work provides evidence that cystatin 3 is likely to be involved in gut processes. This study also highlights recent knowledge on tick physiology during blood-feeding.
Klíčová slova
-
Klíčová slova v angličtině
-
Rozsah průvodní práce
34 s.
Jazyk
CZ
Anotace
-
Anotace v angličtině
In numerous organisms, proteases and their proteinaceous inhibitors constitute a major defence mechanism. As vectors are in constant touch with pathogens their proteolytic activity is of crucial importance. In Ixodes ricinus (IR), the main vector of Lyme disease in Europe, the midgut cells process bloodmeal particles as well as provide a major barrier to a pathogen invasion. Tick salivary secretion plays a indispensable role in both bloodmeal completion and inadvertant pathogen transmission. This thesis describes 3 IRcystatins, cysteine protease inhibitors, using standard biochemical and molecular protocols. Moreover, this work provides evidence that cystatin 3 is likely to be involved in gut processes. This study also highlights recent knowledge on tick physiology during blood-feeding.