Draft Genome Sequence of a Bordetella pertussis Strain with the Virulence-Associated Allelic Variant ptxP3, Isolated in Italy

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Genomics
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Pertussis (whooping cough) remains a significant public health concern, particularly for infants, despite widespread immunization efforts.
• Resurgence of pertussis highlights the need to understand circulating strains and their genetic characteristics.
• The virulence-associated allelic variant ptxP3 is frequently found in contemporary pertussis outbreaks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To perform whole-genome sequencing of a Bordetella pertussis isolate.
• To characterize a strain associated with severe infant pertussis, focusing on virulence factors.
• To contribute genomic data for understanding pertussis epidemiology and vaccine effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• Isolation of Bordetella pertussis from a clinical sample.
• Whole-genome sequencing and bioinformatic analysis.
• Identification of specific genetic variants, including the ptxP3 allele.

Main Results:

• The complete genome sequence of the Bordetella pertussis strain was determined.
• The isolate was confirmed to possess the ptxP3 allelic variant, a key virulence factor.
• The strain was isolated from a 45-day-old infant, underscoring the risk to vulnerable populations.

Conclusions:

• Genomic sequencing provides valuable data on circulating Bordetella pertussis strains.
• The presence of the ptxP3 variant in an infant case warrants further investigation into its role in disease severity.
• Understanding the genetic makeup of pertussis pathogens is crucial for public health strategies and vaccine development.