Substrates for tick
salivary gland sulfotransferases
This project will use
a biochemical approach toward defining the function of two novel
sulfotransferases identified in the salivary gland of deer ticks (Ixodes
scapularis). This project will build on our evidence that dopamine and
octopamine serve as substrates for Ixosc Sult 1 and Sult 2, and that the
enzymes' function may be related to modulation of the tick salivation
process. Experiments will include kinetic analyses of enzyme activity
under various conditions.
