Studies on the significance of smooth muscle contracting substances in the cattle tick Boophilus microplus

• Published in: Australian journal of entomology 1980-03, Vol.18 (3), p.199-210
• Main Authors: DICKINSON, R. G., BINNINGTON, K. C., SCHOTZ, MARTINA, O'HAGAN, J. E.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Boophilus microplus; Ixodidae
• ISSN: 0004-9050; 1326-6756; 1440-6055
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-6055.1979.tb00838.x

Saliva from engorged female cattle ticks contains a prostaglandin as well as a second smooth muscle contracting component. Both active components are present also in the saliva, salivary glands and haemolymph of partly‐engorged females, whereas the gut does not contain the prostaglandin. The levels of total smooth muscle contracting activity in feeding female ticks reach a maximum just prior to final engorgement, and are unaffected by the reproductive status of the female. No significant relationship was evident between the levels of total smooth muscle contracting activity in the tick and the levels of previous tick experience of the host. The results indicate that the prostaglandin is not dependent on the immune status of the host and that it is not of host origin. It is more likely that it is produced by the tick and functions in the establishment and maintenance of the feeding lesion or has a physiological role within the tick. The identity and role of the second component are unknown.