The mature c-terminal domain of filamentous hemagglutinin is sufficient to provide protection against <i>Bordetella pertussis</i>in the murine nasal cavity

Abstract Bordetella pertussis is the causative agent of whooping cough. The transition from whole cell (wP) to acellular vaccines (aPs) triggered an increase in incidence despite wide-spread vaccine coverage. aPs contain protein antigens purified B. pertussis: pertactin, fimbriae, filamentous hemagglutinin (FHA), and toxin (PT). Antibodies are critical for protection against pertussis, have been demonstrated trigger opsonization, block bacterial adhesion, neutralize disease symptoms. Following aP-vaccination, however, antibodies target a diminished number functional B epitopes as chemically denatured during aP manufacturing. effects denaturation on PT well documented, but this has not studied other antigens, such FHA. Additionally, FHA large antigen, most does play role adhesion. To direct antibody responses toward non-denatured, functionally relevant portions we aimed test Mature C-terminal Domain (MCD) antigen. Protection provided by MCD was compared several preparations, including native We observed that wP lead induction recognize FHA, pertussis. Using CD-1 murine model vaccination challenge immunogenic sufficient decrease burden airway, providing ~85% reduction present nasal cavity. Overall, our data supports use antigen Ongoing studies focus selection adjuvants route administration optimize efficacy. Mariette Barbier funded NIH grant 5R01AI141671-04. Fredrick Damron 5R01AI137155-04. Vaccine Development Center Research Challenge Grant (no. HEPC.dsr.18.6) Division Science Research, WV Higher Education Policy Commission also contributed support.