Tissue transglutaminase has been identified as the major autoantigen in celiac disease. IgA antibodies against tTG are highly disease specific serological markers for celiac disease and dermatitis herpetiformis. tTG IgG antibodies are less specific for these diseases but are helpful markers in patients with IgA deficiency.

A negative tTG IgG test alone does not rule out gluten-sensitive enteropathy. 

Celiac disease is a life-long condition in which ingestion of gluten, the water insoluble wheat-gliadin and the prolamins in rye and barley, leads to chronic inflammation and damage of the small intestinal mucosa. Also useful in monitoring adherence to gluten-free diet in patients with IgA deficiency.

Interpretation:

TTGA and TTGG both >10 U/mL: Suggestive of Celiac disease

TTG-IgG may be used to follow patients with Celiac disease who are IgA deficient. However, TTG-IgG alone is not sufficient to diagnose Celiac Disease.

Titanium (Ti) is measured in hair to assist in the identification of external contamination of hair by treatments and products. Shampoos, dyes, and “highlighting” are the primary sources of Ti, which binds tenaciously to hair. Ti dioxide is the most common form of Ti used as a whitening agent (toothpaste, conditioners, shampoos, etc.).

Titanium in the urine can be indicative of exposure to the metal, which is found in a variety of consumer products, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and in the workplace environment. However, it's important to note that the presence of titanium in urine doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. Titanium is generally considered to be of low toxicity to humans, but elevated levels could suggest excessive exposure, which might warrant further investigation to understand the source and potential health implications. Medical evaluation and additional tests would be necessary to assess the significance of titanium levels in urine and to determine if there is any health risk associated with the exposure.

TMA (Trimethylamine) and TMAO (trimethylamine N-oxide) are key biomarkers in understanding the connection between diet, gut microbiota and heart health.

TMA is a small molecule produced by the gut microbiota when we digest certain dietary components like choline, lecithin and L-carnitine which are found in red meat, eggs and dairy.

Once TMA is formed in the gut it’s absorbed into the blood and transported to the liver where it’s converted to TMAO by the enzyme flavin-containing monooxygenase 3 (FMO3).

High levels of TMAO have been linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) like atherosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes. TMAO is thought to contribute to atherosclerosis by promoting cholesterol deposition in the artery walls and inhibiting reverse cholesterol transport. TMAO can also influence platelet function and increase the risk of thrombosis. Research has shown TMA and TMAO can be used as biomarkers of dietary intake and microbiota activity, linking specific dietary patterns to CVD risk. So measuring TMA and TMAO in the blood can be a useful tool in clinical settings to predict and manage CVD risk. Reducing TMAO production through dietary changes such as reducing TMA precursors or altering gut microbiota through probiotics or other interventions has been suggested as a way to mitigate CVD risk associated with high TMAO levels.

Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) is a small organic compound that has garnered significant attention in recent years due to its association with cardiovascular health and disease. TMAO is derived from the oxidation of trimethylamine (TMA), which is produced by gut microbiota during the digestion of certain dietary nutrients, particularly choline, lecithin, and L-carnitine. These nutrients are predominantly found in red meat, eggs, dairy products, and some fish. Once TMA is absorbed into the bloodstream, it travels to the liver, where it is converted into TMAO by the enzyme flavin-containing monooxygenase 3 (FMO3).

TMAO (trimethylamine-N-oxide) is a metabolite derived from gut bacteria. This test can powerfully predict future risk for heart attack, stroke, and death in people who appear otherwise healthy.

TMAO is a compound produced by the liver after intestinal bacteria digest certain nutrients: L-carnitine (found in red meat) and lecithin (found in egg yolks, meats and full-fat dairy products). Lecithin is also pumped into the intestines as a component of bile, so all individuals, regardless of diet, feed their gut microbes lecithin and have potential for elevated levels of TMAO.

TNF-alpha is an important protein in your immune system that plays a big role in inflammation and overall health. It's part of a CYTOKINES Panel and helps your body respond to injuries, infections, and other issues.

TNF-alpha is made by immune cells like macrophages and T-cells when your body is fighting something, such as an infection or inflammation. It helps:

• Control inflammation.
• Remove damaged cells through a process called apoptosis (cell death).
• Regulate fat metabolism.

What Is TNF-beta (Lymphotoxin-alpha)?

TNF-beta, also called lymphotoxin-alpha, is a protein in the TNF superfamily that plays an important role in your immune system. It is primarily produced by activated T and B lymphocytes (types of white blood cells) and helps regulate inflammation, immune responses, and tumor immunity.

Aquaporins from food sources show similarity to human aquaporin, and thus they have high potential for triggering autoimmunity to nervous system tissues.

The Total B Cell marker is a critical indicator used to assess the status of B cells within the immune system.

B cells, also known as B lymphocytes, play a pivotal role in the adaptive immune response, primarily responsible for the production of antibodies that neutralize pathogens and facilitate their removal by other immune cells. The Total B Cell marker quantifies the overall population of B cells, providing insights into the body's capability to mount an effective humoral immune response.

In the context of autoimmune conditions, an altered level of B cells can indicate dysregulation in the immune system, potentially leading to or exacerbating autoimmune reactivity. By evaluating this marker within the comprehensive Lymphocyte MAP panel, clinicians can gain a nuanced understanding of the patient's immune landscape, including potential autoimmune triggers and the balance between different lymphocyte populations.

Total Bifidobacteria refers to the overall population of beneficial Bifidobacterium species in the gut. These probiotic bacteria play a crucial role in digestive health, immune function, and maintaining a balanced gut microbiome. They help break down dietary fiber, produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like acetate and butyrate, and support the production of essential vitamins such as B vitamins.

Total bile acids refer to the sum of all bile acids present in the bloodstream, including both primary and secondary bile acids. On Labcorp's Bile Acids, Fractionated LC/MS-MS Panel, the measurement of total bile acids provides a comprehensive assessment of bile acid metabolism and liver function. Elevated levels of total bile acids can indicate liver dysfunction, cholestasis, or bile acid synthesis disorders. The LC/MS-MS method used in this test offers high accuracy and sensitivity, enabling precise quantification of total bile acids in serum or plasma samples. By evaluating total bile acid levels, healthcare providers can diagnose conditions such as liver disease, biliary obstructions, and metabolic disorders, ensuring timely and effective management of these conditions.

- BCAAs are key nitrogen donors in the form of glutamic acid, glutamine, and alanine.

- Elevated total BCAAs have been associated with obesity, weight loss, insulin resistance, and NAFLD.

- Elevated plasma BCAAs were associated with an increased risk of hypertension, cardiovascular disease.

- BCAAs are higher in a “Western” diet. Check B6 need.

- Lower levels seen in liver cirrhosis and urea cycle disorders.

- Decreased amino acids are seen with decreased protein and calorie intake; increased tissue uptake, and body losses (urine, sweat, etc.).