Bordetella pertussis adhesins (B. pertussis adhesins)

Bordetella pertussis adhesins are a group of surface-exposed proteins and structures that are essential for the attachment and colonization of the human respiratory tract by the bacterium responsible for whooping cough (Source: PubMed PMID: 10224445). The primary adhesins include filamentous hemagglutinin (FHA), pertactin (PRN), and fimbriae (Fim2 and Fim3), which work in concert to bind to ciliated epithelial cells and modulate host immune responses (Source: UniProt P03398, P14283). FHA is a large, secreted protein that facilitates adherence to various host receptors, including integrins, while PRN is an autotransporter protein that promotes firm attachment and helps the bacteria resist host clearance mechanisms (Source: NIH, StatPearls). Fimbriae are hair-like appendages that are critical for the initial stages of infection and are highly immunogenic (Source: UniProt P05405). These adhesins are the key components of modern acellular pertussis (aP) vaccines, such as DTaP and Tdap, which induce protective antibodies that block bacterial docking and enhance opsonophagocytosis (Source: CDC). However, the emergence of pertactin-deficient strains in many vaccinated populations represents a significant challenge, as it may reduce the effectiveness of current vaccines and highlights the ongoing evolution of the pathogen under selective pressure (Source: PubMed PMID: 24332835).

Other names

Filamentous hemagglutininPertactinFimbriaeFHAPRNFim2Fim3Tracheal colonization factorTcfABordetella resistance to killing proteinBrkAVag8

Vaccine-mediated induction of specific IgG antibodies that bind to bacterial adhesins, thereby sterically hindering attachment to host respiratory epithelial cells and promoting clearance via opsonophagocytosis (Source: PubMed PMID: 10224445).