Bordetella pertussis produces several toxins that contribute to its pathogenicity. The most notable among them is the pertussis toxin, which disrupts normal cellular functions by interfering with signal transduction pathways. This toxin is a major virulence factor and is responsible for many of the systemic symptoms associated with whooping cough. Another important toxin is the adenylate cyclase toxin, which impairs immune cell function and assists in the bacterium's evasion of the host's immune system. Together, these toxins play a crucial role in the disease's progression and severity.
