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BMC Infectious Diseases
Published in: BMC Infectious Diseases 1/2020

Open Access 01-12-2020 | Syphilis | Study protocol

Investigation of syphilis immunology and Treponema pallidum subsp. pallidum biology to improve clinical management and design a broadly protective vaccine: study protocol

Authors: Ethan Osias, Phoebe Hung, Lorenzo Giacani, Chrysovalantis Stafylis, Kelika A. Konda, Silver K. Vargas, E. Michael Reyes-Díaz, W. Scott Comulada, David A. Haake, Austin M. Haynes, Carlos F. Caceres, Jeffrey D. Klausner

Published in: BMC Infectious Diseases | Issue 1/2020

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Abstract

Background

The syphilis epidemic continues to cause substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, despite several recent disease control initiatives. Though our understanding of the pathogenesis of this disease and the biology of the syphilis agent, Treponema pallidum subsp. pallidum has improved over the last two decades, further research is necessary to improve clinical diagnosis and disease management protocols. Additionally, such research efforts could contribute to the identification of possible targets for the development of an effective vaccine to stem syphilis spread.

Methods

This study will recruit two cohorts of participants with active syphilis infection, one with de novo infection, one with repeat infection. Whole blood specimens will be collected from each study participant at baseline, 4, 12, 24, 36, and 48 weeks, to track specific markers of their immunological response, as well as to compare humoral reactivity to Treponema pallidum antigens between the two groups. Additionally, we will use serum specimens to look for unique cytokine patterns in participants with early syphilis. Oral and blood samples, as well as samples from any syphilitic lesions present, will also be collected to sequence any Treponema pallidum DNA found.

Discussion

By furthering our understanding of syphilis pathogenesis and human host immune response to Treponema pallidum, we will provide important data that will help in development of new point-of-care tests that could better identify active infection, leading to improved syphilis diagnosis and management. Findings could also contribute to vaccine development efforts.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
Investigation of syphilis immunology and Treponema pallidum subsp. pallidum biology to improve clinical management and design a broadly protective vaccine: study protocol
Authors
Ethan Osias
Phoebe Hung
Lorenzo Giacani
Chrysovalantis Stafylis
Kelika A. Konda
Silver K. Vargas
E. Michael Reyes-Díaz
W. Scott Comulada
David A. Haake
Austin M. Haynes
Carlos F. Caceres
Jeffrey D. Klausner
Publication date
01-12-2020
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Infectious Diseases / Issue 1/2020
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2334
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12879-020-05141-0

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