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Significant Decrease in Pertactin-Deficient Bordetella pertussis Isolates, Japan
Abstract:
Prevalence of pertactin-lacking Bordetella pertussis isolates has been observed worldwide. In Japan, however, we found that the frequency of pertactin-deficient isolates in 2014-2016 (8%) was significantly lower than the frequency in 2005-2007 (41%), 2008-2010 (35%), and 2011-2013 (25%). This reduction was closely associated with changes in genotypes.
Insights
Pertactin-deficient Bordetella pertussis strains, common globally, decreased significantly in Japan from 2005-2013 to 2014-2016. This reduction correlated with evolving bacterial genotypes.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Epidemiology
- Genetics
Background:
- Pertussis, caused by Bordetella pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection.
- Pertactin is a key virulence factor in B. pertussis, and its absence has been noted globally.
- Previous studies indicated a high prevalence of pertactin-lacking B. pertussis in Japan.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the recent prevalence of pertactin-deficient Bordetella pertussis isolates in Japan.
- To determine the association between pertactin deficiency and specific genotypes of B. pertussis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of Bordetella pertussis isolates collected in Japan between 2005 and 2016.
- Genotyping of B. pertussis isolates to identify specific genetic profiles.
- Statistical analysis to compare the prevalence of pertactin-deficient isolates over different time periods and correlate with genotypes.
Main Results:
- The frequency of pertactin-deficient B. pertussis isolates in Japan significantly decreased from 41% (2005-2007) to 8% (2014-2016).
- Intermediate frequencies were observed in 2008-2010 (35%) and 2011-2013 (25%).
- The reduction in pertactin-deficient isolates was strongly associated with shifts in the predominant B. pertussis genotypes.
Conclusions:
- A notable decline in pertactin-deficient Bordetella pertussis strains has occurred in Japan.
- Genotypic changes in B. pertussis populations are closely linked to the observed decrease in pertactin deficiency.
- These findings highlight the dynamic evolution of B. pertussis and its implications for pertussis epidemiology.
