‘Game-changer' new blood test to detect prevalent autoimmune disease without nightmare side effects
New clinical research published in the journal Gastroenterology has shown a 'game-changer' blood test for gluten-specific T cells that can detect coeliac disease – even when no gluten has been consumed.
Currently, people with suspected coeliac are required to eat large amounts of gluten for weeks to get an accurate diagnosis.
However, researchers said the new blood test could boost rates of diagnosis, identify patients at risk of severe reactions to gluten and detect silent coeliac disease in asymptomatic people.
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks its own tissues when gluten is eaten, which prevents normal digestion and absorption of food, with the risk of developing serious health complications. It is driven by eating gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye.
An estimated 1 in 100 people have it in the UK. However, only 36 per cent with the condition are clinically diagnosed, according to Coeliac UK.
Undiagnosed or untreated coeliac disease can result in complications such as osteoporosis, unexplained infertility, neurological dysfunction and, in rare instances, small bowel cancer, Coeliac UK says.
Currently, all coeliac testing methods require regular gluten consumption to be effective, the researchers said.
Many people are deterred from seeking a definite diagnosis because they do not want to consume gluten and be sick, the Australia-based scientists added.
Associate Professor Jason Tye-Din, Head of WEHI's Coeliac Research Laboratory and a gastroenterologist at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, said: 'There are likely millions of people around the world living with undiagnosed coeliac disease simply because the path to diagnosis is difficult, and at times, debilitating.'
'By eliminating the need for a gluten challenge, we're addressing one of the biggest deterrents in current diagnostic practices,' she added.
'This test could be a game-changer, sparing thousands of people the emotional and physical toll of returning to gluten. It's a major step towards faster, safer diagnosis.'
The study evaluated the potential of a blood test to measure an immune marker interleukin 2 (IL-2).
In 2019, researchers found this immune marker spiked in the bloodstream of people with coeliac disease shortly after they ate gluten.
The scientists used blood samples from 181 volunteers, including 75 people with treated coeliac disease, 13 with active, untreated coeliac disease, 32 people with non-coeliac gluten sensitivity and 61 healthy people.
Participant blood samples were then mixed with gluten in a test tube for a day to see if the IL-2 signal appeared.
The team was 'thrilled' to find the test could detect the condition with up to 90 per cent sensitivity and 97 per cent specificity – even in patients following a strict gluten-free diet, PhD researcher Olivia Moscatelli, who was diagnosed with coeliac disease at 18, said.
The IL-2 signal only increased in the volunteers with coeliac disease, showing the immune response to gluten can be detected in a tube, without the need to consume gluten, researchers said.
Ms Moscatelli said the test also performed exceptionally well in people with coeliac disease who had other autoimmune conditions, such as type 1 diabetes or Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute team are now collaborating with Novoviah Pharmaceuticals to confirm the test's accuracy across diverse populations and find real-world data.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Buzz Feed
an hour ago
- Buzz Feed
These Fitness Items Can Help Improve Your Bone Density
You're probably familiar with many of the benefits of regular exercise, when done properly. From building muscle to boosting your energy and even helping your brain function better, there's no shortage of reasons to work up a sweat. But there's another great benefit you might not think about as much: You could be improving your bone density through exercise, according to experts. 'Bone density refers to how strong and solid your bones are,' Dr. Raphael Longobardi, New Jersey-based orthopedic surgeon told us. He serves with the RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group and specializes in sports medicine, frequently identifying ways to strengthen the body. 'The amount of mineral content in our bones helps them maintain their strength and resistance to fractures. Maintaining bone density is an incredibly important preventative for reducing the risk of conditions like osteoporosis or fractures. This is especially true as we age.'There are also risk factors for certain groups, according to Kai-Yu Ho, a physical therapist and professor of physical therapy at University of Nevada in Las Vegas. Ho said bone density is important to look after 'especially in postmenopausal women, as estrogen loss speeds up bone weakening.' So, if you're concerned about your bone density, how can exercise help? If you haven't been looking after your bone health, now's the time: Based on the experts' advice, we rounded up some small and easy fitness items you can use to help improve your bone density and reduce your risk of fractures. A set of resistance bands with different resistance levels All three experts we spoke to recommended resistance bands as one of the most effective pieces of exercise equipment that can help increase bone density through resistance training. Ho said bands are "useful for beginners and those with limited mobility," while Longobardi explained, "They apply resistance that stimulates bone growth through stress."We like this five-pack because all five bands are the same length, but each one has a different resistance level, from extra-light to extra-heavy. "It's important to begin with lighter resistance, gradually increasing in intensity to prevent injuries," Longobardi said, advice that Ho bands are made with a durable, elastic fabric that comes in a bunch of colors. You can use the bands for squats, lunges and other review: "These are high quality resistance bands. They have a slight texture to them which holds them in place while using them. Purchased after recommended by my physical therapist. Variety of resistance bands in the pack which makes it easy to make exercises easier or harder!" —Austin NicholsGet them from Amazon for $19.97. A weighted vest to increase bone density while walking According to Ho, "Weighted vests increase bone-loading stimulus, especially during walking or bodyweight exercises." To properly use a weighted vest for walking to help with bone density or osteoporosis, Medical News Today suggests trying out a vest without weights first, then adding the lowest possible amount and slowly increasing that amount over time. (It's generally recommended that you start with no more than 10% of your body weight, but always check with your physician first.)To do this, you may be best off with an adjustable vest like this one by Zelus, so you can change the weight. The vest comes in three sizes and two colors, with six removable weights on each vest. The vest is designed to evenly distribute the load, and the neoprene material is strong and comfortable. The vest is also equipped with reflective strips for visibility and a pocket to hold your keys, phone and other essentials. Promising review: "My workout program includes a daily walk/run. I have osteoporosis in my spine and I'd been looking for a weight vest to wear during my walks to possibly help rebuild bone density. I really like this vest because the straps are adjustable; there're pockets in the front to hold keys, tissue, etc.; it doesn't ride up or rub when I'm running; and the weights are easy to add and remove. The vest had a noticeable chemical smell when I first took it out the box, but the smell quickly dissipated after the vest sat out a couple days. All in all, it's great value for the money!" —E. R. RogersGet it from Amazon for $39.99+. A mini stair stepper to help you get in some weight-bearing exercise Improving your bone density can be as simple as getting your steps in. Who knew? "Other weight-bearing exercises such as walking, stair climbing, and aerobics also contribute to bone health," Longobardi said. "Activities such as these cause your bones to bear your body weight against gravity, and this contributes to increasing bone mass and preventing osteoporosis in the future." Sellmeyer also suggested stair climbing as part of her recommended 30 minutes of impact exercise a day. If you don't live in a building with stairs or near a set of stairs you can use, a mini stair stepper like this one can provide an easy and convenient way to do these exercises without having to leave the house or make room for large equipment. This stepper has a loading capacity of 300 pounds and weighs just 16 pounds itself, so you can move it around the house as shown in the pictures here. The silent cushioning pad will keep the machine from making too much noise, and the height of the steps can be adjusted depending on your workout needs. You can even use it sitting down, as one reviewer can attest it from Amazon for $47.49+ (available in three colors). Or a walking pad to get even more steps in throughout the day Again, Longobardi and Sellmeyer both recommended walking for impact exercise. One other exercise you can try, according to Sellmeyer, is "tandem walking," where you walk "in a straight line with one foot directly in front of the other" to train your balance and reduce falls (and therefore, your risk of fracturing bones). Like the stair stepper, a walking pad can come in handy if you have less time to go outside for a walk or less space for something like a treadmill that can't be easily stowed away when not in pick is this one by Akluer. You can adjust the incline up to 5%, and the LED display lets you see important stats like distance and speed. The running belt is anti-slip with shock absorbers for a comfortable walk. And when you're done, tuck away the pad under a bed or sofa with ease using the built-in transport it from Amazon for $99.99+ (available in seven styles). A pair of comfortable, supportive shoes Whether or not you buy fancy equipment for your workouts, what you'll always want is a good pair of shoes. "Supportive footwear [is] essential for impact activities like jumping and jogging to prevent joint stress," Ho said, adding that proper footwear can help you avoid it comes to supportive and comfy shoes, we're Hoka fans here, and the Bondi 9s are podiastrist-recommended, to boot. Their plush cushioning and supportive construction have made them a cult favorite for the brand. You can get them in a bunch of colorways and men's sizes 7–16, as well as women's sizes 4– them from Nordstrom for $170 in men's or for $175 in women's. A foam balance pad for balance training Sellmeyer recommended some simple balance exercises, including "standing on each leg for 30 seconds two to three times each day, [and] doing the same standing on a foam balance pad which is more difficult." Foam balance pads have an unstable surface, so using them can help your balance and like this one made by ProsourceFit, which comes in two sizes and has a near-perfect 4.8-star rating with more than 14,000 reviews. The lightweight pad weighs just 12 ounces so you can carry it wherever, and use it for Sellmeyer's recommended balance exercises as well as lunges, squats, planks and more. That's in addition to other uses around the house, like as a knee pad for gardening, a foot pad for underneath your desk and more. Talk about versatility. The pad is available in five colors and two review: "Functions exactly as advertised. great for balance and core work. this pad has the perfect amount of "give" to work those areas. also the small waves on the surface help to prevent sliding on hard wood floors." —Mary it from Amazon for $21.06+. A pair of adjustable dumbbells for weight training Both Ho and Longobardi named adjustable dumbbells as a beneficial equipment option for resistance training. Why adjustable? "While free weights and resistance bands can help stimulate bone growth, it's important to begin with lighter resistance, gradually increasing in intensity to prevent injuries," Longobardi added that adjustable equipment is more suitable for long-term use as you slowly up the intensity of your workouts. In other words, adjustable dumbbells involve taking on a higher cost upfront, but you'll save money later by not having to purchase new dumbbells so pick is this set from Lifepro, which comes in four weight ranges. You just use the sliders to increase or decrease the weight. The dumbbells have a non-slip handle and safety locking mechanism, as well as a storage rack that comes included so you can keep these secure and out of the way. Get them from Amazon for $111.97+. Or this single adjustable dumbbell If you'd rather start off with one instead of a pair, Target sells a single adjustable dumbbell from their All In Motion brand. This plastic and steel dumbbell goes up to 25 pounds and comes with a similar storage tray. Promising review: "These are really nice (I bought 2)! I am a beginner with strength training, so I like that these are compact and easy to adjust the weight. Took me a minute to figure out how to use it (didn't realize the explanation was printed on the actually dumbbells lol) and when I first picked them up one of the plates fell out but luckily I was sitting on the floor. All in all an excellent product and makes me feel confident using weights!" —TeeinteeGet it from Target for $100. A pickleball paddle set for beginners Pickleball has become "America's fastest-growing sport" over the past couple of years, and it can also help improve your bone density, according to Sellmeyer, who suggested the activity as one type of impact exercise. This is also a great way to work out with family or friends for something a little more exciting than a typical walk or weightlifting starter set from Recess Pickleball includes two durable fiberglass paddles with sweat-proof handles and three balls. The brand offers tons of color and pattern options, including the fun "Dog Day" doodles shown here, as well as sets with paddle cases, a gym bag and up to eight it from Amazon for $88.
USA Today
2 hours ago
- USA Today
Smoke descends on Northeastern US. Map shows air quality impacts.
State officials from Maine to New York issued alerts for fine particulate matter, a toxic byproduct of wildfires that is small enough to be inhaled. NEW YORK − Wildfire smoke wafted from Canada to create unhealthy air quality levels across the Northeast on July 26. State officials from Maine to New York issued alerts for fine particulate matter, a toxic byproduct of wildfires that is small enough to be inhaled. Smoky conditions impacted cities including Boston and New York. Canada's fires could produce more smoke blowing into the Northeast through the afternoon, said Brooke Taber, a National Weather Service meteorologist stationed in Burlington, Vermont. Smoke is also causing limited visibility in some areas. Wind changes could provide a respite by the night, Taber said. Montreal had some of the worst air quality in the world due to fires in the Canadian Prairies, the Canadian Press reported, citing IQAir, a Swiss-based monitoring company. Several wildfires burning in Saskatchewan and Manitoba are sending large smoke plumes eastward, according to Quebec's fire provincial agency. Meanwhile, New York City climbed on IQAir's list of cities with unhealthy air levels. Hazy skies and the faint smell of smoke blanketed Manhattan on Saturday. Map shows US air quality Why air quality matters Officials urged people to stay indoors to reduce exposure, and to limit strenuous activity. Exposure can cause short-term effects such as irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, along with coughing, sneezing, runny nose and shortness of breath. It can be particularly dangerous for people in sensitive groups, such as children, older people and those with chronic health conditions, such as asthma or heart disease. Canada is experiencing another harsh wildfire season in a warming climate. Dozens of wildfires are blazing uncontrolled, according to Canada's natural resources department. In early July, Manitoba's government declared a state of emergency for its historic fires. July 17: Brace for more smoky skies as Canadian wildfires rage Eduardo Cuevas is based in New York City. Reach him by email at emcuevas1@ or on Signal at emcuevas.01.
New York Post
6 hours ago
- New York Post
Love addiction and social media stalking could be frying your brain, study finds
Love's got people literally losing their minds. Folks who obsess over their romantic partners — also known as 'love addiction' — were more likely to report brain fog, memory problems and trouble focusing, a new study conducted by a group of Italian researchers found. Even the mildly lovesick felt scrambled, especially when social media was involved. Advertisement 3 Can't stop stalking your partner on Instagram? Experts say it's wrecking your focus and driving up your anxiety. 'It can certainly be psychologically, emotionally and neurologically draining,' said Dr. Marisa Cohen, a New York-based marriage and family therapist. 'They may start to experience withdrawal symptoms when removed from that person or relationship.' The study, published in the peer-reviewed journal Behavioural Brain Research, surveyed 600 Italian adults between July 2022 and May 2023, more than 70% of whom were women, using validated, self-reported questionnaires on anxiety, depression, resilience, memory ability, attention and social media use. Advertisement Most participants were between 26 and 35 years old, and over two-thirds held a university degree. The researchers found a clear pattern: the more someone clung to their crush, the worse their attention span became. Higher love addiction scores were linked to increased anxiety, depression and mental fatigue. Heavy Instagram and TikTok use worsened symptoms. 3 Even people in happy relationships said they felt mentally 'off' when love took over their thoughts and screen time. highwaystarz – Advertisement 'People have much easier access to this window into their [partner's] life,' Cohen said. Scroll-happy users fueled jealousy by constantly stalking their partners online, sparking obsessive thoughts and wrecking their focus at work. Many said they felt mentally and emotionally 'off,' even while still in relationships. Dr. Sheri Meyers, Los Angeles-based relationship expert and therapist, calls it emotional sex — a psychological 'affair of the heart' that messes with your mind. 'You begin to channel the bulk of your emotions, hopes and desires onto the other person,' Meyers said. '[It] feels like romantic love but can lead us to act in ways that are contrary to our ideals, values and relationship goals and better judgment.' Advertisement 3 Being lovesick might actually fry your brain, according to a new study linking romance obsession to memory loss and brain fog. – The emotional rollercoaster, from longing to jealousy to withdrawal, can throw off the brain's reward system and lead to mood swings, obsessive thinking and mental burnout, she added. Dr. Ryan Rahm-Knigge, a Minnesota psychologist who researches compulsive sexual behavior, said while 'love addiction' isn't an official diagnosis, the study's findings echo clinical issues he sees in therapy. 'My experience is that these issues are more than heartbreak or desire,' he said. 'We see people suffering with feelings like their love pursuits or sexual behaviors or urges are out of control or in control of them.'
