Genetic identification and environmental modeling of Borrelia pathogens isolated from Arkansas ticks and mammals

In Arkansas, tick-borne pathogens are commonly misdiagnosed and underreported. Consequently, we examined ticks collected from canines and white-tailed deer for the presence of Borrelia pathogens. Practicing veterinarians and members of the AGFC removed ticks from mammals, stored the ticks in 100% ethanol vials, and shipped the collections to the University of Arkansas. Tick DNA was extracted using Qiagen DNEasy Insect kits and yielded tick genomic DNA, host genomic DNA, and potential bacteria genomic DNA. Tick DNA extractions underwent Borrelia genus-specific polymerase chain reactions (PCR) and were visualized with gel electrophoresis. Additionally, veterinarians and the AGFC collected a small amount of blood from each host and stored the blood samples on respectively labeled FTA filter paper cards. FTA cards were returned with the tick collections. Blood stored on the FTA cards also underwent DNA extraction using the Whatman Protocol and extracted DNA underwent the genus specific PCR. Positive samples were verified through genetic sequencing at the DNA Identification Laboratory at the University of North Texas. Georeferencing collection sites (positive and negative) and applying geographic information system technologies assessed environmental correlations. Practicing veterinarians removed over 1500 ticks from more than 100 pets, and AGFC collected over 1000 ticks from more than 100 white-tailed deer. Most of the ticks collected from veterinarians were Amblyomma americanum while those from AGFC were Ixodes scapularis. Identification of Borrelia pathogens and environmental correlations will be presented.