A next generation sequencing-based molecular approach to characterize the tick vector in Lyme disease

Lyme disease is a multi-organ spirochete infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi. The black legged tick, Ixodes scapularis is the vector of this disease. We took a molecular approach for identification of the vector and the causative pathogen. Advantages of this strategy are accurate identification and faster turn-around time which will guide the physicians to initiate the correct treatment. We were able to generate and analyze the deep sequencing data to identify the tick as a dog tick, Dermacentor variabilis and confirm the absence of any Borrelia species.