Serologic Assay Based on Gliadin-Related Nonapeptides as a Highly Sensitive and Specific Diagnostic Aid in Celiac Disease

Abstract
Background: Celiac disease (CD) is induced by wheat gliadins and related cereal proteins. Anti-gliadin antibodies (AGAs) are present in the serum of CD patients, but these antibodies have lower diagnostic specificity and sensitivity than autoantibodies [anti-endomysium antibodies (AEmAs) and anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies (AtTGAs)]. Recently, AGAs from CD patients were found to recognize deamidated gliadin peptides, probably formed by the action of tissue transglutaminase.