title: Current trends in translational research in leptospirosis.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  In the past years, the importance of studying leptospirosis in a translational context has become more evident. This review addresses recent findings in the study of leptospirosis infection, focusing on those applicable to public health, or that will affect management and diagnosis of cases of leptospirosis.
  
  
  RESULTS
  We review here recent findings regarding translational aspects of leptospirosis research. Briefly, PCR or a combination of serology and PCR seem to have a higher sensitivity than the current gold standard (microagglutination test). More clinical trials are needed to determine the best treatment for mild and severe leptospirosis. Dendritic cells and γδ T cells seem to have an important role in the immune response to leptospirosis. Environmental assessment is emerging as a very useful tool.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  In order to understand leptospirosis, multiple aspects need to be considered, including host, pathogen and environment. In this review, we will address newer diagnostics, current advances in immunology and treatment and the growing role of environmental assessment.
authors: Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru. jessica.ricaldi@upch.pe
authors: Jessica N
authors: JN
authors: Ricaldi
authors: Mark A
authors: MA
authors: Swancutt
authors: Michael A
authors: MA
authors: Matthias
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D007922:Leptospirosis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy*; D057170:Translational Research, Biomedical; D015047:Zoonoses / Q000382:microbiology