The red chicken mite, Dermanyssus gallinae (red chicken mite), is an ectoparasite that is considered the worst pest in the laying poultry sector. It feeds in the dark on the blood of chickens, but it can also affect humans both in their workplace and in public buildings. It produces serious economic losses and affects the health and well-being of the hens, as well as being vectors of diseases. The mite has developed resistance to commonly used pesticides so other control measures are necessary.

Through molecular techniques, mite proteins have been identified that can be used as vaccines. The development of vaccines is a very promising option by not developing resistance and reducing the use of pesticides in the environment.

The ACAROVAC project works for the development of vaccine candidates against infestations by Dermanyssus gallinae (red chicken mite).

This project was born under the Aid for Industrial Doctorates of the Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness through the State Program for the Promotion of Talent and its Employability of the State Plan for Scientific and Technical Research and Innovation, with financing for recruitment for training of doctors in companies.

Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación

The contracted researcher, Jose Francisco Lima Barbero, after defending his doctoral thesis, already carries his doctorate from the UCLM, with the congratulations of the entire Sabiotec team for their efforts, which can be seen in the following presentations and articles: