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Antibodies to glutamic acid decarboxylase in blood
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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In recent studies, the main antigen was found, which is the main target for autoantibodies associated with the development of type 1 diabetes mellitus. This antigen was glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD), a membrane enzyme of pancreatic β cells. Antibodies to GAD - a very informative marker for the diagnosis of pre-diabetes, as well as identifying individuals at high risk of disease (sensitivity 70%, specificity 99%).
An increased concentration of antibodies to GAD in the blood can be detected 7-14 years before the clinical manifestation of the disease. Over time, the concentration of antibodies to GAD is reduced and they are detected only in 20% of patients. Antibodies to GAD are detected in 60-80% of patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus, their detection in patients with type 2 diabetes testifies to the involvement of autoimmune mechanisms in the pathogenesis of the disease and serves as an indication for carrying out immunocorrective therapy.
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