Oxitec Ltd, a renowned developer of insect-based biological solutions aimed at controlling pests that spread diseases and wreak havoc on crops and livestock, has unveiled the launch of a new Research and Development hub in Scotland. The facility, situated within the University of Edinburgh's esteemed Roslin Institute, will serve as the epicenter for crafting a groundbreaking solution to tackle the world's most destructive cattle pest, the Asian blue tick, scientifically known as Rhipicephalus microplus.

The creation of the Friendly™ R. microplus is poised to advance the fight against this pervasive livestock parasite, which is deemed one of the most significant biting parasites affecting livestock globally. Known for transmitting perilous diseases like babesiosis and anaplasmosis, the cattle tick inflicts substantial economic losses on farmers, with estimates reaching US$3.2 billion annually in Brazil alone. The escalating spread of this pest across numerous African nations, coupled with its resistance to conventional pesticides, underscores the urgent need for innovative interventions.

The impact of cattle tick infestations is particularly dire in low-income countries, where the inability to control the parasite and monitor diseases exacts a heavy toll on the livestock economy. In response to this pressing challenge, Oxitec has joined forces with Dr. Tim Connelley at the Roslin Institute, renowned for its world-class cattle research facilities and extensive experience in tick rearing.

Grey Frandsen, Oxitec's CEO, said: "The launch of our new R&D center at the Roslin Institute will support the expansion of our Friendly™ technology platform into livestock pest solutions. We're already well underway towards developing a Friendly™ R. microplus solution, and our team in Scotland includes some of the best minds in science focusing in on this incredibly devastating challenge. By paving the way for the world's first self-limiting tick, our new Scotland center, embedded with a world-class partner in the Roslin Institute, will lead the way in the development of new biological strategies to protect cattle and farmers' livelihoods worldwide without the use of chemical pesticides."

The newly established Scotland hub will house a team of specialized experts dedicated to pioneering the world's first Friendly™ R. microplus solution. Through collaborative efforts and cutting-edge research, Oxitec and its partners aim to develop a safe, non-toxic, and target-specific remedy that holds promise for transforming the battle against invasive cattle ticks on a global scale.