Danielle Tufts

I am a vector-borne disease ecologist interested in evolutionary genetics, pathogen transmission pathways, ecological drivers of pathogen emergence, host-vector-parasite interactions, and co-infections. My goal is to enhance our understanding of these complex interactions by combining empirical data and theory from disease ecology and genetics research. I utilize field-collected and laboratory-derived samples, mathematical and statistical models to connect these findings to patterns found in nature, and analyzes these samples using molecular tools. My previous projects have focused on understanding how tick-borne pathogens Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease) and Babesia microti (babesiosis) may facilitate and enhance infection in their natural reservoir host (Peromyscus leucopus) using field-derived data from a multi-year, longitudinal, mark-recapture study and a multi-state Markov model to assess transition likelihoods between different infection states.

I was the first investigator in the U.S. to discover that vertical transmission (a non-vector mediated pathogen pathway) may be contributing to the high prevalence and emergence of B. microti in natural rodent populations. Currently, I am investigating genetic and immunological variations of vertical transmission and maternal-mediated protection against infection.
Other research in the Tufts lab includes: investigation of host specialization of different B. burgdorferi strains, immunological responses to Lyme disease infection in humans, macro-micro parasite interactions, effectiveness host and vector control strategies, mosquito pesticide resistance, and behavioral and genetic analyses of the invasive tick species Haemaphysalis longicornis, the Asian longhorned tick, and the pathogens they transmit of human and veterinary concern. Infographic: https://hdl.handle.net/1813/104193

I enjoy collaborating with fellow scientists both nationally and internationally to develop integrative and synergistic research projects. I am interested in recruiting motivated graduate students who are interested in tick-borne diseases, disease ecology, and host-vector-pathogen interactions.