Out of the top fifteen relatedness values, only five had differing infection statuses within the pairing (IU or UI), meaning the majority of the highest related mice had the same infection status (II or UU). This could mean there is a correlation between genetic markers and susceptibility of Lyme Disease in P. leucopus. This is just a subset of mice data in one county, so no definitive conclusions can be made.
If we were to continue our research, we would trap more mice in counties north of Benzie County to study the spread and continue analyzing the genetic markers. We would also investigate which specific primers or genetic markers are causing this correlation in infection status. We can see a future for our research in discovering the genetic aspects of the susceptibility of Lyme Disease in white-footed mice that could be extended to research of Lyme Disease in humans.
Through this research experience, we have gained knowledge about the research field as well as career building skills that we can use in the future. The first skill that was required for working in a lab was teamwork. We had to each be accountable for our own work and collaborate on problems that were causing issues in the lab in order to complete our research projects. Communication was another skill that was essential in our research lab in particular. There are two teams/projects of two undergraduate researchers in our lab, so communicating what each team needed help from the other was essential due to both teams not having a shared time in the lab. Additionally, we have all gained immense understanding of laboratory technology that we regularly would use in the lab. This information will greatly increase our comfortability and adaptability to other laboratories as we pursue future careers in the science field. Finally, in order to excel in and complete our research projects, we had to build our critical thinking skills. Whether it be contamination, technology, data analysis, or communication problems, we would all persevere through any adversity by brainstorming solution plans to resolve the problem.