Project

Understanding the role of glycine-rich proteins in tick bioadhesive

Ticks attach to their host for multiple days by forming a cement cone from their saliva. We recently discovered that glycine-rich proteins (GRP) present in the tick saliva undergo liquid-liquid phase separation via simple coacervation in presence of salts and experience liquid-to-solid transition with time. I am focussing on the adhesive properties and the effect of biological triggers on the phase transition of GRPs. I will use atomic force spectroscopy, fluorescence microscope and spectroscopic techniques to elucidate this natural mystery. My research has a clear potential for developing biomedical adhesives and anti-tick vaccines.