Mapping a Common STD and a Voracious Parasite

According to the CDC, Trichomoniasis is the most common curable STD in young, sexually active women with an estimated 7.4 million new cases occuring each year in women and men. In men Trichomoniasis shows no symptoms, which is one of the reasons so many men fail to get it treated, and pass it along to partners. In women symptoms of "Trich" commonly include vaginal discharge with an unpleasant smell, as well as itching and irritation.

AP is reporting that a group of researchers have completed a four year project where they have mapped the genes of the microscopic, single-celled protozoan named Trichomonas vaginalis that causes Trichomoniasis.

Treatment for Trich has been available for some time, but the researchers are hoping that by fully understanding the genetic make-up of the bug they can move closer to eliminating it from the population. They point out that Trich doesn't just cause irritation and an annoying trip to the doctor for treatment; in women it increases risk of HIV infection by altering the vaginal lining, making transmission easier.

The AP story comes complete with creepy images from under the microscope, and this description of the action of Trich, which I think should be enough to make us all wear condoms:

First, it shifts from the shape of a pear to flatten and cover as much of the vaginal surface as possible. Then it sends tendrils under that surface to latch on. And then it gobbles up the vagina’s good, anti-infective bacteria even as it secretes proteins that can erode holes in cells in the vaginal lining.

Read more - MSNBC.com: Scientists map bug that causes sexual disease

Related - About STDs