What is the relation of superoxide dismutase and catalase to the pathogeneisis of bordetella pertussis?

Answer 1

Bordatella pertussis is an obligate aerobe. An obligate aerobe requires oxygen for growth. It must have two essential chemicals in order to use oxygen: superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase. This is because oxygen in its O2- form is toxic because it has a free radical (a free-floating electron). In order for it to be useable by life, this superoxide must be counteracted by naturally occurring antioxidants, in this case SOD. SOD takes O2- and yields H2O2 and O2 . The role of catalase is then to further reduce H2 O2 into H2 O and O2.

Bordatella Pertussis contains both of these enzymes, which makes them especially feisty in the human respiratory system. Phagosomes and lysosomes that our own immune system sends to combat an infections use superoxides and hydrogen peroxide their primary weapons for destroying a cell once it has been phagocytosed. But with SOD and catalase, Bordatella pertussis can break those down and essentially disarm its attackers. 1

1Steed 2104

Answer 2

Superoxide dismutase and catalase are enzymes that help bacteria like Bordetella pertussis defend against host immune responses. These enzymes play a role in neutralizing reactive oxygen species produced by immune cells, allowing the bacteria to survive and replicate in the host. Therefore, the presence of superoxide dismutase and catalase can contribute to the pathogenesis of Bordetella pertussis by aiding in its evasion of host immune defenses.