The Genomics of Syphilis

The global burden of syphilis remains high at over 8 million incident cases per year, and over 220,000 fetal and infant deaths per year are caused by congenital syphilis. Recent technological advances have enabled whole genome sequencing of Treponema pallidum, the causative agent of syphilis, and revealed global transmission patterns and conservation of vaccine targets. Genomics techniques have also enabled the study of T. pallidum antigenic variation, which allows it to evade host immunity. This presentation will highlight key findings from recent genomics studies of syphilis, including a focused analysis of the first documented case of recombination between two strain of T. pallidum.

After viewing this lecture, participants should be able to:
1. Identify drivers of syphilis re-emergence in the United States.
2. Define the role of molecular epidemiology in the public health response to syphilis
3. Recognize how genomics can be used to study Treponema pallidum intra-host evolution.

Nicole A.P. Lieberman, PhD
Acting Assistant Professor, Virology
Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology
University of Washington