In toxicology, several methods are used to detect and analyze pertussis toxin. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a common technique for identifying the presence of the Bordetella pertussis bacterium by amplifying its genetic material. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) and other immunoassays are employed to detect pertussis toxin specifically by targeting its unique antigenic properties. These methods are crucial for both diagnosis and research.
