An integrated approach to Chlamydia trachomatis infection: the ICTI Consortium, an update.

The desire for an integrated approach to the study of Chlamydia trachomatis infection of the female genital tract resulted in the creation of the "ICTI Consortium" (Integrated approach to the study of Chlamydia Trachomatis Infection) in 2005. The ICTI consortium is based on tight interaction and collaboration between basic scientists, clinicians, epidemiologists and health-care policy makers. This translational approach will help to further the valuable insight into the immunopathogenesis of this sexually transmitted infection in order to develop new intervention strategies, including the vaccines and screening programs necessary to effectively diagnose, treat and prevent C. trachomatis infection. This article provides an update of ICTI Consortium activities carried out until September 2009.