|Scientists Sequence Genome of Parasite Responsible for Common
Sexually Transmitted Infection Researchers have decoded the
genetic makeup of the parasite that causes trichomoniasis, one
of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs),
revealing potential clues as to why the parasite has become
increasingly drug resistant and suggesting possible pathways for
new treatments, diagnostics and a potential vaccine strategy.
The genome sequencing project, funded by the National Institute
of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National
Institutes of Health (NIH), is detailed in the January 12 issue
of Science. “The progress that continues to be made in
deciphering the genomes of organisms, such as the Trichomonas
vaginalis parasite, helps to further our collective scientific
understanding of these organisms, so that we can better address
public health issues,” says NIH Director Elias A. Zerhouni, M.D.
“By better understanding the genetic makeup of the Trichomonas
vaginalis parasite that cau