Identification and characterization of an interspersed repeat antigen of Babesia microti (BmIRA)

► A novel interspersed repeat antigen (BmIRA) of Babesia microti was identified. ► The rBmIRA showed a good performance in an ELISA. ► An immunochromatographic test (ICT) was developed for detection of B. microti infection. ► BmIRA could be a potential marker for the serodiagnosis of B. microti infection.