Date Posted: July 20, 2026

Author/s: Rav James M. Lopez, Guinamay L. Mammag, Shamita Kate S. Sabareza, Ma. Thedda Rae O. Ced, Ma. Julianne Mae J. De Leon, Charles Angelo H. Pido, Jasmine Margaret R. Pacleb, Felicity Anne Q. Sapla, Kurt Ryan A. Lalas, Pauline Andrea I. Curioso, Sherwin N. Reyes and Pedrito Y. Tagayuna

Syphilis remains one of the world’s most prevalent sexually transmitted infections, posing a serious public health concern due to its complex clinical presentation and latent phases. This systematic review investigates the potential of microRNAs as biomarkers for syphilis, a disease caused by Treponema pallidum. By adhering to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta- Analyses) guidelines, this study examines existing pertinent literature to evaluate the diagnostic utility of microRNAs in syphilis detection. A comprehensive search was conducted using databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar, with additional references from sources, including the World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Department of Health (DOH). By synthesizing current evidence, this review aimed to explain the role of microRNA profiles in syphilis diagnosis, potentially contributing to the development of novel, more sensitive and specific diagnostic assays.

Keywords: Syphilis, Treponema pallidum, microRNA, biomarker