Bordetella pertussis

Definition

Bordetella pertussis is a Gram-negative, aerobic coccobacillus that causes whooping cough, a highly contagious respiratory disease. It primarily infects the trachea and bronchi by producing toxins that paralyze the respiratory cilia.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bordetella pertussis is classified as a proteobacterium within the class Betaproteobacteria.
2. It produces several toxins, including pertussis toxin and adenylate cyclase toxin, which impair immune responses and damage respiratory tissues.
3. The bacterium spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
4. Infections are most severe in infants and young children, but can also affect adolescents and adults.
5. Vaccination with the DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis) vaccine is the primary method of prevention.

Review Questions

• What are the main toxins produced by Bordetella pertussis and their effects on the host?
• How is Bordetella pertussis transmitted between individuals?
• Why is vaccination important in controlling Bordetella pertussis infections?

Related terms

Proteobacteria:

A major phylum of Gram-negative bacteria that includes a wide variety of pathogens.

Pertussis Toxin: A protein-based exotoxin produced by Bordetella pertussis that interferes with immune cell signaling.

DTaP Vaccine: A combined vaccine for diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis used to immunize against these diseases.