Endogenous peptides as novel inhibitors of the Bordetella pertussis toxin (A07*)

• Subject Area: Biochemistry ; Metabolism, Biochemistry and Genetics of Microorganisms
• Term: since 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 316249678

This project aims to identify and characterize human peptides inhibiting Bordetella pertussis toxin, which is the main virulence factor causing whooping cough. The applicant identified endogenous antimicrobial peptides of the defensin family, as well as angiogenin, as inhibitors of pertussis toxin. The project will define the underlying molecular and cellular mechanism(s). In addition, as-yet-unknown peptidic inhibitors will be identified from human peptide libraries. The results will elucidate the role of endogenous peptides as natural inhibitors against pertussis toxin and provide starting points for developing novel pharmacological approaches for the treatment of whooping cough.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1279: Exploiting the Human Peptidome for Novel Antimicrobial and Anticancer Agents
• Applicant Institution: Universität Ulm
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Holger Barth, since 3/2024; Dr. Katharina Ernst, until 2/2024