Gamma globulin M, more accurately referred to as immunoglobulin M (IgM), is the first type of antibody produced by the immune system in response to an infection. It is a part of the gamma globulin fraction of serum proteins and plays a critical role in the body’s initial defense against pathogens. IgM is primarily found in the blood and lymphatic fluid, and because of its large size, it is especially effective at forming complexes with antigens and activating the complement system. Elevated levels of IgM can indicate recent or acute infections, autoimmune disorders, or certain types of blood cancers, while low levels may suggest immune deficiencies. As the immune response progresses, IgM is typically replaced by other immunoglobulins such as IgG, which provide longer-lasting immunity.

Elevated antibody levels can be clinically significant — while the antibodies themselves don’t destroy anything, they do trigger an inflammatory response that can cause significant destruction of tissue and resulting symptoms. This response is not necessarily dependent on antibody levels. However, an equivocal result may mean you are just beginning to exhibit an immune reaction, so this is an important time to take measures to support the body in damping immune reactivity.

Gardnerella vaginalis is a type of bacteria that is commonly found in the vaginal flora of some women. While it can be present in the vagina without causing any issues, it is often associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV), a condition that occurs when the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted. BV can lead to symptoms such as unusual discharge, a fishy odor, and vaginal irritation, although some women may not experience any symptoms. Gardnerella vaginalis plays a key role in this imbalance because its overgrowth can reduce the number of "good" bacteria like lactobacilli, which normally help maintain a healthy vaginal environment. BV is not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but it is more common in sexually active women. It is usually treated with antibiotics to restore the normal bacterial balance.

Elevated antibody levels can be clinically significant — while the antibodies themselves don’t destroy anything, they do trigger an inflammatory response that can cause significant destruction of tissue and resulting symptoms. This response is not necessarily dependent on antibody levels. However, an equivocal result may mean you are just beginning to exhibit an immune reaction, so this is an important time to take measures to support the body in damping immune reactivity.

This marker is usually part of a test called IBD Expanded Panel (IBD = Inflammatory Bowel Disease) and aids in the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease and the differential diagnosis of Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC); it is also a prognostic aid for clinical management of patients with CD.

The Gastrin test is a simple blood test that checks for excess gastrin production. Gastrin is a hormone your stomach makes to fuel the release of gastric acid. Your body needs this to digest and absorb nutrients in your food, particularly proteins and amino acids. 

Gastric acid is found inside cells called G cells. These are located in your stomach lining and the lining of your upper small intestine.

This fungus has garnered scientific interest due to its presence in the human microbiome and its widespread occurrence in the environment. It plays a role in various biological processes and can have both positive and negative effects on human health, depending on its context and interaction with the host.

The Geotrichum species marker on a gastrointestinal (GI) panel is indicative of the presence and relative abundance of Geotrichum, a genus of fungi, in the gut microbiome. Geotrichum species are commonly found in soil, water, air, and various food products; they are also a part of the normal flora of the skin, respiratory system, and gastrointestinal tract in humans. In a balanced gut microbiome, the presence of Geotrichum species is typically harmless and may even play a role in the complex ecosystem of the gut. However, an overgrowth or significant presence indicated by a GI panel can have clinical implications.

May cause disease in immunosuppressed patients. Low levels may be a dietary artefact; certain strains are used to make soft cheeses.