Basic Research
The ultimate objective of NIAID supported research is to develop effective prevention and treatment approaches to control STIs. In order to develop these strategies, basic research is necessary towards understanding the structure, function, growth, pathogenesis and evolution of STI bacterial, viral, parasitic, protozoan and fungal agents. Another important aspect of basic research is to examine the impact of STIs in various populations.
NIAID’s work in genomic sequencing further accelerates STI biological research and discovery. NIAID has collected genomic data on STI pathogens and made it available to qualified researchers through public databases. Recent advances include the genomic sequencing of pathogens responsible for trichomoniasis, chlamydia, gonorrhea and human genital ulcer disease (chancroid). The sequencing of genomes of allows researchers to read and decipher genetic data that may aid in the development of novel diagnostics, topical medications and vaccines.