2012 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416): Obtain a thorough description of the white-tailed deer's immunological response upon exposure to tick protein to have a better undertanding of the white-tailed deer immune system and the development of immunological resistance to natural Boophilus tick infestation, which is necessary in order to design and develop an effective anti-tick vaccine for use in white-tailed deer. 1b.Approach (from AD-416): Initiate four study groups of 4 white-tailed deer of similar age per group (randomly assigned). Vaccinate deer at the start of week 1, 4, and 7 of the study. Group 1, 2, 3, and 4 are to be vaccinated with Bm86 plus adjuvant, ARS Antigen 1 plus adjuvant, Bm86 plus Antigen 1 plus adjuvant, or Adjuvant alone, respectively. Blood samples are to be drawn from each animal prior to each vaccination and every 4 weeks following the third vaccination for 24 weeks. Blood is to be collected (10 ml) from each deer into 12.5-ml sterile serum separator tubes (Corvac, Mansfield, MA) or other appropriate collection tubes compatible with serum fraction isolation. Serum is collected after centrifugation (3,400 RPM for 1 h at 25 deg C) and stored at -80 deg C. Serum antibody titers are to be determined using an antigen-specific ELISA to determine specific response to BM86 and ARS Antigen 1. 3.Progress Report: Protocol for vaccine study was established by ARS Scientists and Collaborator. Vaccine study was initiated. Immunological characteristics of blood samples from vaccinated deer are being followed through the duration of this trial.