Copy Number Variation-Based Molecular Sexing of <i>Ixodes scapularis</i> and <i>Rhipicephalus microplus</i> Immature Stages Using qPCR and ddPCR Approaches.

ABSTRACT: Accurate sex identification of immature ticks is essential for understanding sex-specific ecological dynamics, pathogen transmission, and reproductive biology. However, tick larvae and nymphs lack morphological sexual dimorphisms, limiting the studies. Here, we report the development and validation of copy number variation (CNV)-based molecular sexing approach for two important hard tick species, Ixodes scapularis, a major public health vector of human pathogens, and Rhipicephalus microplus, a pest responsible for significant economic losses in cattle industry. Using newly published chromosomal-level genome assemblies and whole-genome resequencing data, we identified female-enriched CNVs in two genes, calcium/calmodulin-dependent 3',5'-cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase 1A-l

SUBMITTER: Sharma A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12776140 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature