Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the determination of human IgA antibodies in serum or plasma directed against Bordetella pertussis toxin. For research use only, not for use in diagnostic procedures.<br><br>
Bordetella pertussis belongs to the genus of Bordetella. It is a small coccoid, gram negative bacillus, which occurs world-wide.<br><br>
The attachment of B. pertussis and B. parapertussis to the ciliated cells in the mucosa of the human respiratory tract is mediated by adhesins. An important adhesion protein and an equally important immunogen is the so-called filamentous haemagglutinin (FHA). Colonization of the respiratory tract and establishment of infection are facilitated by the synergistic action of several virulence factors. An important virulence factor is pertussis toxin (PT) which mediates multiple biological effects such as leukocytosis, lymphocytosis, mitogenity, and increased sensitivity to histamine.