A recent study published in Gastroenterology introduces a promising new blood test : WBAIL-2 that could diagnose celiac disease without requiring prolonged gluten exposure or invasive biopsies.

How It Works

The WBAIL-2 assay measures interleukin-2 (IL-2), an immune signal released by gluten-specific T-cells. After gluten is added to blood samples, elevated IL-2 levels indicate an immune response consistent with celiac disease.

Study Highlights

• Involved 181 adults (celiac patients, non-celiac gluten-sensitive individuals, and healthy controls).

• The test accurately identified celiac disease, even in those on a gluten-free diet.

• IL-2 levels rose after short-term gluten challenges, matching the presence of gluten-specific immune cells.

• The test was less effective in people with the HLA-DQ8 genotype, a smaller subset of patients.

Benefits

• Non-invasive: Avoids intestinal biopsies

• Quick: Requires only a brief gluten exposure

• Accessible: Works even for those already avoiding gluten

Experts say the test could become a first-line diagnostic tool, especially for those hesitant to resume gluten before testing. However, larger studies are needed, and the test's effectiveness in children or immunosuppressed patients remains untested.

The Bottom Line

WBAIL-2 shows strong potential to simplify celiac diagnosis – possibly eliminating the need for gluten challenges or biopsies. While not ready to replace current standards, it's a promising step forward in more accessible, patient-friendly diagnostics.

You can read more about this at this link: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/novel-blood-test-could-diagnose-celiac-disease-without-triggering-symptoms