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Laboratory Maintenance of Bordetella pertussis
Robin R Hulbert1, Peggy A Cotter
1California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, California, USA.
Abstract:
The causative agent of the respiratory disease whooping cough, Bordetella pertussis, is a nutritionally fastidious microorganism but can be grown with relative ease in research laboratories. Stainer-Scholte synthetic broth medium and Bordet-Gengou blood agar both support growth of B. pertussis and are commonly used. B. pertussis prefers aerobic conditions and a temperature range of 35 degrees to 37 degrees C. Appropriate laboratory safety protocols are required to prevent the generation of aerosols, which could potentially spread this highly infectious agent.
Insights
Bordetella pertussis, the cause of whooping cough, is a fastidious bacterium that researchers can grow using specific lab media. Maintaining aerobic conditions and temperatures between 35-37°C is crucial for its cultivation.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Whooping cough is caused by Bordetella pertussis, a nutritionally demanding bacterium.
- B. pertussis requires specific laboratory conditions for cultivation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the optimal conditions for growing Bordetella pertussis in a research setting.
- To highlight essential laboratory media and environmental parameters for B. pertussis culture.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing Stainer-Scholte synthetic broth medium for bacterial growth.
- Employing Bordet-Gengou blood agar plates for culturing B. pertussis.
- Maintaining aerobic conditions and a temperature range of 35-37°C.
Main Results:
- Bordetella pertussis can be successfully cultured using Stainer-Scholte medium and Bordet-Gengou agar.
- Optimal growth occurs under aerobic conditions at temperatures between 35°C and 37°C.
Conclusions:
- Standard laboratory media and controlled environmental conditions facilitate the growth of Bordetella pertussis.
- Adherence to safety protocols is essential due to the high infectivity of B. pertussis and the risk of aerosol generation.
