A Nonhuman Primate Model for Rectally Transmitted Syphilis

J Infect Dis. 2018 Mar 13;217(7):1139-1144. doi: 10.1093/infdis/jix669.

Abstract

Among men who have sex with men (MSM), those with a diagnosis of syphilis or other rectal sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are at a higher risk for human immunodeficiency virus acquisition, which is concerning given the large increase in recently reported syphilis cases in the United States. We have developed the first nonhuman primate model for rectally transmitted syphilis by exposing simian/human immunodeficiency virus-infected and naive rhesus macaques to Treponema pallidum in the rectum. All animals showed mucosal lesions, systemic dissemination, and seroconversion (treponemal antibodies). This model would be valuable for studying the manifestations of and interventions for T. pallidum infection, with and without human immunodeficiency virus coinfection.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes
  • Coinfection
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Female
  • Macaca mulatta*
  • Male
  • Peptides, Cyclic
  • Rectum
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases
  • Simian Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / complications*
  • Simian Immunodeficiency Virus
  • Syphilis / transmission*
  • Treponema pallidum
  • Viremia

Substances

  • Peptides, Cyclic
  • bactenecin