BCM368 - Biochemistry of disease (Immunology and Vaccinology)
BTW701 - Biotechnology
GTS351 - Eukaryotic genome control
GTS 700 - Advanced research techniques & Ethics in animal research
Professor Christine Maritz-Olivier is a full professor in the Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology at the University of Pretoria, where she leads the Ticks and Tick-
Borne Diseases research programme. Before starting her current role, she carried out postdoctoral research as a Wellcome Trust-funded fellow in both South Africa and the
Netherlands.
Her research is dedicated to advancing integrated platforms for controlling ticks and tick-
borne diseases, and is structured around five strategic pillars, each contributing to a cohesive platform aimed at controlling ticks and tick-borne diseases:
1. Tick Vaccine Development:
We have evaluated a broad range of antigens for their potential in tick vaccines. Our leading antigen(s) have demonstrated 80–86% reduction in engorged ticks, and also affect oviposition and viability of offspring. This significant impact highlights their promise in large-scale tick control strategies.
2. Immune Response Characterization:
We investigate the immune responses triggered during tick feeding and following vaccination with protective antigen-adjuvant combinations. Techniques such as flow cytometry, cytokine analyses, and RNA sequencing are employed to uncover correlates of protection and inform the rational design and formulation of effective vaccines.
3. Vaccine Efficacy under Co-Infection Conditions:
Given the complexity of natural infestations, where hosts are frequently co-infected with ticks and tick-borne pathogens, we assess immune responses under co-infection scenarios using a murine model. Our primary focus is on Babesia and Anaplasma spp., the two most critical diseases transmitted by Rhipicephalus ticks. This work ensures that vaccine efficacy translates to real-world field conditions.
4. Phylogeography and Genetic Markers:
We investigate genetic markers of cattle ticks to map their phylogeographical distribution. This research aids in understanding tick population dynamics, the development of protective vaccines for Africa, and the spread of resistance traits.
5. Acaricide Resistance Mechanisms:
To monitor acaricide resistance and contribute to the next generation of acaricides, we explore the modes of action underlying resistance mechanisms. Our findings aim to inform the development of rapid diagnostics, enhancing early detection and management of resistance via the rational design of novel acaricides using structural biology.
To date, Prof Christine has received several scientific awards such as:
Internationally, Prof Christine has been awarded, honorary membership of the International Society of Tropical Veterinary Medicine (Germany), IUBMB, Young Scientist Award (Cananda) as well as the Andrew F Mellon Foundation fellowship award, Bruce and Betty Alberts endowed scholarship, Caswell Grave scholarship and Frankie R Lillie fellowship (all from USA).
Nationally, she has been awarded the Best Biotechnology Research Award by the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, as well as the exceptional achiever award from the University of Pretoria.
In addition, Prof Christine serves on a number of editorial boards for international journals. She has published more than 40 articles, two book chapters, numerous invention disclosures and patents. Research findings have been presented at 57 national and 42 international conferences (11 invited speaker). To date, 37 BSc(Hons), 25 MSc and 10 PhD students have graduated under her direct supervision.
Recent Publications:
Copyright © University of Pretoria 2025. All rights reserved.
Get Social With Us
Download the UP Mobile App