Tal Azagi

This study uses deep sequencing on 16 Ixodes ricinus ticks to analyze symbionts, revealing genome sequences, transmission modes, and genetic variability in Rickettsia helvetica.

This study uses comparative genomics of Arsenophonus to show that endosymbionts initially expand their genomes through horizontal gene transfer and loss of defense systems, followed by genome reduction.

The paper generates high-quality genome assemblies for Ixodes ricinus and identifies transposable elements as major drivers of genome evolution in ticks.