What are the Toxicological Effects of Pertussis Toxin?
The toxicological impacts of pertussis toxin are primarily due to its ability to impair the host's immune response. The toxin can cause lymphocytosis, a condition marked by an abnormal increase in lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. This disruption of the immune system allows bacterial pathogens to proliferate, exacerbating the disease. Additionally, pertussis toxin affects the respiratory tract by promoting mucus production and paralyzing cilia, leading to the persistent cough associated with the disease.
