New Findings from Utrecht University in the Area of Bordetella pertussis Described (Biosynthesis of the Inner Core of Bordetella pertussis Lipopolysaccharides: Effect of Mutations on LPS Structure, Cell Division, and Toll-like Receptor 4...).

A recent study conducted by Utrecht University in the Netherlands explored the biosynthesis of the inner core of Bordetella pertussis lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and its effect on cell division and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) activation. The researchers found that structural modifications in the lipid A moiety of LPS can reduce endotoxicity, but dephosphorylation of lipid A did not affect TLR4-stimulating activity. They also discovered that changes in the inner core of LPS can impact TLR4-stimulating activity and bacterial physiology. This research provides valuable insights into the development of vaccines against whooping cough caused by Bordetella pertussis. [Extracted from the article]