Syphilis Research
Developing better ways to diagnose and treat syphilis is an important research goal of scientists supported by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). New tests are being developed that may provide better ways to diagnose syphilis and define the stage of infection.
In an effort to stem the spread of syphilis, scientists are conducting research on a vaccine. Molecular biologists are learning more about the various surface components of the syphilis bacterium that stimulate the immune system to respond to the invading organism. This knowledge will pave the way for development of an effective vaccine that can ultimately prevent this STD.
A high priority for researchers is development of a diagnostic test that does not require a blood sample. Saliva and urine are being evaluated to see whether they would work as well as blood. Researchers also are trying to develop other diagnostic tests for detecting infection in babies.
Another high research priority is the development of a safe, effective, single-dose oral antibiotic therapy for syphilis. Many patients do not like getting an injection for treatment, and about 10 percent of the general population is allergic to penicillin.
Recently, the genome of this organism has been sequenced. The sequence represents an encyclopedia of information about the organism. Clues as to how to diagnose, treat, and vaccinate against syphilis have been identified already and are fueling intensive research efforts in this ancient but intractable disease.
Reprinted from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
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