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Proof of concept cattle tick vaccine trial for commercial adoption (2024–2025)

Abstract:
Cattle ticks which are members of the Rhipicephalus microplus species are responsible for approximately $US22- 30 billion in losses to cattle industries world-wide. In Australia beef producers are losing $128.2M per annum due to tick related losses, costs of treatment and prevention. The species has in the last decade displaced native tick species and spread through most African countries. A cattle tick vaccine program by the partner entrepeneur (Prof. Ala Tabor) commenced in 2005 and the final longevity trial demonstrated 87% efficacy using two final vaccine antigens in a group of six cattle. This is too few cattle, and a successful larger trial, crossing multiple tick species is needed to attract further commercial interest. It is proposed to undertake two vaccine trials (a larger trial with 28 cattle and two tick species) and allow challenge of ticks. Collaboration with the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) in Kenya supports one trial to be undertaken there. A smaller, more targeted trial will be undertaken at UQ facilities. Monitoring of tick numbers and antibody responses will continue for a minimum of 3 months post vaccination. Where feasible, ticks will be incubated to confirm their reproductive fecundity as ticks from vaccinated cattle previously did not lay viable eggs. This will provide proof of concept that the vaccine has an Australian and global application and market. Further, it will pave the way for more extensive industry led 'on-farm' trials.
Grant type:
Australia's Economic Accelerator Seed Grants
Researchers:

  • Dr Hannah Siddle

    Research Fellow
    Centre for Animal Science
    Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation

  • Professor Ala Tabor

    Professorial Research Fellow
    Centre for Animal Science
    Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation
Funded by:
Commonwealth Department of Education