Proteomics of Treponema pallidum: prospects for improving serological diagnosis of syphilis

Abstract

Modern diagnosis of syphilis, despite the widespread use of serological methods, has several limitations, including insufficient specificity of non-treponemal tests and challenges in differentiating infection stages. This article reviews the prospects of using proteomic technologies to identify new diagnostic antigens of Treponema pallidum that could improve quality of serological diagnosis. The results of studies investigating various recombinant proteins, their diagnostic sensitivity and specificity at different disease stages, as well as their potential for monitoring treatment efficacy are summarized. Special attention is given to the development of multi-antigen test systems and the application of statistical analysis methods, which could form the basis for more reliable diagnostic algorithms. The need for further research to integrate new biomarkers into clinical practice is emphasized.