Pertussis: a matter of immune modulation

Abstract

Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a highly contagious, acute respiratory disease of humans that is caused by the Gram-negative bacterial pathogen Bordetella pertussis. In the face of extensive global vaccination, this extremely monomorphic pathogen has persisted and re-emerged, causing approximately 300,000 deaths each year. In this review, we discuss the interaction of B. pertussis with the host mucosal epithelium and immune system. Using a large number of virulence factors, B. pertussis is able to create a niche for colonization in the human respiratory tract. The successful persistence of this pathogen is mainly due to its ability to interfere with almost every aspect of the immune system, from the inhibition of complement- and phagocyte-mediated killing to the suppression of T- and B-cell responses. Based on these insights, we delineate ideas for the rational design of improved vaccines that can target the 'weak spots' in the pathogenesis of this highly successful pathogen.

The Contrasting Roles of T Regulatory Cells in Bacterial Lung Diseases

“…To promote its longevity and survival within the host, B. pertussis produces a number of toxins and virulence factors (de Gouw et al, 2011). It is well established at this point that clearance of Bordetella from the host requires a Th1 response, mediated by IFN- (de Gouw et al, 2011). Experiments with vaccines have shown that augmentation of the IFN--mediated Th1 cell response leads to increased clearance of Bordetella (Marzouqi et al, 2010).…”

“…There is even evidence that certain strains of Bordetella can invade host cells, thus avoiding many host responses (de Gouw et al, 2011). To promote its longevity and survival within the host, B. pertussis produces a number of toxins and virulence factors (de Gouw et al, 2011). It is well established at this point that clearance of Bordetella from the host requires a Th1 response, mediated by IFN- (de Gouw et al, 2011).…”

“…It can then form a protective biofilm that allows it to mask itself from immune cells (de Gouw et al, 2011). There is even evidence that certain strains of Bordetella can invade host cells, thus avoiding many host responses (de Gouw et al, 2011).…”

“…It can then form a protective biofilm that allows it to mask itself from immune cells (de Gouw et al, 2011). There is even evidence that certain strains of Bordetella can invade host cells, thus avoiding many host responses (de Gouw et al, 2011). To promote its longevity and survival within the host, B. pertussis produces a number of toxins and virulence factors (de Gouw et al, 2011).…”

“…Upon initial exposure, B. pertussis adheres to the mucosal epithelium along the respiratory tract (de Gouw et al, 2011). It can then form a protective biofilm that allows it to mask itself from immune cells (de Gouw et al, 2011).…”