Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase (GAD) Antibodies, Serum

Two Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase (GAD) isoforms GAD65 and GAD67 exist in the brain, islets of the pancreas, and other endocrine organs. Studies have shown that antibodies to the 65-kDa isoform, GAD65, can be detected in 70-80% of newly diagnosed diabetic patients. GAD65 antibodies may precede the clinical manifestations of Insulin Dependant Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM) by several years and may be found concomitantly with, and sometimes before, islet cell antibodies and / or insulin autoantibodies. See Also Pancreatic Langerhans Islet Cell Antibodies, Serum

Detection of anti GAD antibodies provides early evidence of autoimmune disease activity. Its measurement is useful in assisting the prediction, diagnosis, and management of patients with IDDM. The detection of GAD antibodies can also be of use in distinguishing insulin-dependent from non-insulin-dependent diabetics when the clinical history is ambiguous. GAD antibodies are present in many patients with stiff man syndrome (SMS) and its variants, but also in patients with other neurological disorders.

1 ml Serum Stability: 14 Days at 2-8 °C

Negative: < 1/10 Titre