Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: infection and to identify key immunological limitations of current acellular pertussis vaccines that contribute to ongoing transmission. A narrative review of the literature was conducted, focusing on mechanisms of host-pathogen interaction, immune evasion, and vaccine-induced immunity. Evidence indicates that although acellular vaccines effectively reduce disease severity, they fail to prevent nasopharyngeal colonization and transmission, largely due to insufficient induction of mucosal immunity, T helper 1 (Th1) and T helper 17 (Th17) responses, and airway tissue-resident memory T cells. In contrast, natural infection induces broader immune responses, including secretory IgA production and robust cellular immunity, which are associated with improved bacterial clearance. Emerging next-generation vaccine strategies, including mucosal, outer membrane vesicle-based, and live-attenuated platforms, demonstrate enhanced ability to reduce bacterial colonization in preclinical and clinical models. In conclusion, effective control of pertussis transmission will require vaccine approaches that replicate infection-induced immunity at the respiratory mucosa, emphasizing the need for redesigned immunization strategies.
Source: Vaccines
Language: English
Subfield: Microbiology
Field: Immunology and Microbiology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,258
OpenAlex ID: W7160299447
FWCI:
Cites:
Cited by:
Related to: