Pertussis Toxin: A Reliable Tool for Advancing Autoimmune and Neurodegenerative Research

From predictive autoimmune models to precision pathway analysis, empowering MS researchers with high-purity Pertussis toxin from List Labs

Multiple sclerosis (MS) and other autoimmune disorders remain some of the most challenging areas in biomedical research. For scientists exploring new therapeutic strategies, accurately replicating disease mechanisms in the laboratory is crucial. The experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mouse model is widely recognised as a gold standard for studying MS, and Pertussis toxin is a key reagent in its successful induction.

At Tebubio, through our trusted partner List Labs, we provide researchers with highly purified, activity-tested Pertussis toxin to support robust and reproducible autoimmune models, helping you accelerate your path from discovery to insight.

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Why Pertussis Toxin Matters in Your Research

Pertussis toxin (PTX) is the major virulence factor of Bordetella pertussis, the bacterium responsible for whooping cough. While classically linked to infectious disease, PTX has become a versatile research tool with two primary applications:

1. Mapping Gi/o protein-dependent signalling pathways in cell biology

2. Inducing autoimmune animal models, including EAE for MS research

Structurally, PTX is a multi-component protein composed of six non-covalently bound subunits (9–28 kDa). The largest, the A protomer, is an enzyme responsible for ADP-ribosyl transferase activity. It catalyses the transfer of ADP ribose from NAD⁺ to the α subunits of G proteins from the Gi, Go or Gt families, inactivating these critical signalling mediators.

The remaining five-subunit B oligomer binds to specific cell surface receptors, including TLR4 and glycoprotein Ib, via glycan residues. This enables PTX to enter cells through receptor-mediated endocytosis, after which it is transported retrogradely through the endosomal pathway and Golgi complex to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). From there, the A subunit is released into the cytosol, where it modifies and inactivates target membrane-bound G proteins.

Because these receptors are present on many mammalian cell types, PTX affects most cultured cells, making it an indispensable tool for both in vitro and in vivo research.

Quality You Can Trust – Manufactured by List Labs 

In research models, especially in autoimmune disease induction, consistency and purity are non-negotiable. With over four decades of expertise in manufacturing bacterial toxin products for both Reagent Grade use and GMP-grade clinical trials (Phase I & II), List Labs ensures that every vial you receive meets the highest scientific and regulatory expectations.

Each PTX preparation is: Highly purified, containing all five subunits of the binding complex Tested for minimal contamination with endotoxin, adenylate cyclase toxin, and other virulence factors Validated for activity in CHO cells to confirm functionality Available in three different formulations to suit specific research needs

Complementary Virulence Factors for Expanded Research Applications

In addition to Pertussis toxin, List Labs also produces two other well-characterised B. pertussis virulence factors:

• Adenylate Cyclase Toxin (ACT): contains an adenylate cyclase domain that binds to host cell calmodulin, driving unregulated conversion of cellular ATP to cAMP. This process both suppresses and modulates host immune responses, contributing to the pathogenesis of B. pertussis.

• Filamentous Hemagglutinin (FHA): the major adhesion factor of the bacterium, enabling initial attachment to the epithelial lining of the host respiratory tract.

These factors can be powerful adjuncts in immunology, vaccine development, and host–pathogen interaction studies, broadening the scope of your experimental toolkit.

Designed for the Needs of Autoimmune and Neurodegenerative Disease Researchers

List Labs' Pertussis toxin range is ideally suited for:

1. MS research teams are developing or optimising EAE mouse models

2. Neurodegenerative disease groups exploring immune-driven pathology

3. Autoimmune research laboratories require reproducible in vivo and in vitro results

By combining scientific precision with application-focused support, we help ensure that your models not only work but also yield data that stands up to publication and peer review.

Accelerate Your Research with Proven Tools

Contact us today to discuss your project needs, obtain detailed specifications, or arrange a bulk supply tailored to your specific study requirements.

• References

  Image: Courtesy of List Labs, your trusted supplier for Pertussis Toxin.

Discover How Tebubio Brings You High-Purity Pertussis Toxin

Tebubio now brings you high-purity Pertussis toxin from List Labs, a trusted, activity-tested reagent for reliable induction of autoimmune models and precise Gi/o protein pathway studies.
With expert scientific support and fast access to multiple validated formulations, we make it easy to integrate Pertussis toxin into your MS, neurodegenerative, or autoimmune disease research workflow.