Experimental immunization of rabbits with whole tick extract antigens of Hyalomma anatolicum anatolicum: cross-resistance against H. dromedarii.

Batches of rabbits were experimentally immunized with whole tick extract antigens prepared from partially fed adult females of Hyalomma anatolicum fractionated by gel filteration chromatography (Sephadex G-200). Two types of antigens viz. whole tick extract (WTE) and whole tick extract fractionated (WTEF) were used. The titre of serum was found higher in rabbits immunized with WTEF than in those immunized with WTE antigens. Immunization resulted in significant resistance to challenge infestation with H.dromedarii ticks in terms of feeding and reproductive parameters in both the immunized groups indicating shared immunogenicity and cross-protection between the two species.