Host cell/Orientia tsutsugamushi interactions: Evolution and expression of syndecan-4 in Asian rodents (Rodentia, Muridae)

► We investigate structure, evolution and expression of syndecan-4 within Murinae. ► We compared wild Murini (poor) and Rattini (effective) reservoirs of scrub typhus. ► Found no conclusive link between syndecan-4 structure and carrier status. ► Correlation identified with syndecan-4 expression levels within Murinae. ► Murini and seropositive-Rattini show reduced expression vs. seronegative-Rattini.