Description
Zonulin is a protein synthesised in intestinal and liver cells that reversibly regulates intestinal permeability. High levels of circulating zonulin have been associated with intestinal permeability as it induces the breakdown of the tight junctions between epithelial cells. The impairment and loss of tight junctions increases intestinal permeability and allows polypeptides and macromolecules to pass between epithelial cells into the lamina propria layer of the gut wall. This can induce an antigen response and promote proinflammatory cytokine production in the enteric immune system. Zonulin is the only regulator of intestinal permeability known to be reversible so is an excellent tool for monitoring clinical and therapeutic interventions.
Methodology
Enzyme Immunoassay
When should I use
Celiac disease
Non-celiac gluten sensitivity
Type I diabetes
Juvenile nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Multiple sclerosis
Rhuematoid arthritis
Asthma
Inflammatory bowel disease
Adult glucose intolerance
Other Details
Other tests to consider:
DD005 - GI360 complete + zonulin + HPylori
