Chlamydia trachomatis: From Urogenital Infections to the Pathway of Infertility
Rafaela Rodrigues, Carlos Sousa, Alberto Barros, Nuno Vale
Abstract
(CT) is a major cause of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide, with significant implications for reproductive health. The bacterium's genome contains highly polymorphic regions, influencing both the type and severity of infections. These genetic variations, particularly those occurring in the major outer membrane protein (MOMP) gene, are critical for classifying the bacterium into distinct serovars and enable CT to adapt to diverse host environments, contributing to its immune evasion, persistence, and pathogenicity. Persistent or untreated urogenital infections can lead to chronic inflammation, tissue damage, and pelvic inflammatory disease, ultimately increasing the risk of ectopic pregnancy, spontaneous abortion, and infertility. This review consolidates current knowledge on the genetic diversity of CT, its potential role in modulating infection outcomes, and its immune evasion mechanisms. By integrating scientific evidence linking chlamydial infections to infertility, we underscore the urgent need for targeted research to address this critical public health challenge.