The genome sequence of Treponema pallidum, the syphilis spirochete: will clinicians benefit?

The sequence of the Treponema pallidum genome was completed in July 1998, yielding a wealth of new information regarding the enigmatic spirochete that causes syphilis and related treponematoses. By providing the sequences and predicted functions of over 1000 genes, the genome sequence will greatly facilitate research on the genetic characteristics, physiology, antigenic structure, and pathogenesis of this organism. These advances are, in turn, expected to promote the refinement of conditions for in-vitro culture, an improvement of diagnostic tests, the development of effective vaccines, and an improved understanding of treponemal disease pathogenesis and manifestations.