Blood Biomarkers
PROMETHEUS® IBS Diagnostic is the first blood-based biomarker test for IBS
From blood samples, key lab measures, or biomarkers, are assessed by the PROMETHEUS IBS Diagnostic. These biomarkers are associated with one or more of the following pathways related to digestion:
1. Motility |
2. Brain-gut dysregulation |
3. Neuronal regulation |
4. Visceral hypersensitivity |
Interleukin 1β (IL-1β)
Reduces contraction in colonic circular muscles. Compared with healthy controls, IBS patients, particularly those who are constipation-predominant, have higher concentrations of IL-1β. This cytokine acts on the central nervous system to contribute to inflammatory pain hypersensitivity. |
Growth-related oncogene α (GROα)
A cytokine with chemoattractant activity. Increased levels of GROα have been detected in patients
with IBD. In animal models, this cytokine is associated with hyperalgesia, a common element of IBS. |
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)
A neuronal growth factor that may have a role in central sensitization in conditions of peripheral inflammation. In animal models, BDNF has been linked to the development of chronic pain
and the induction of visceral hypersensitivity, 2 components that are associated with IBS. |
Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)
ANCAs are antibodies against antigens in the cytoplasm of neutrophil granulocytes and monocytes. They are detected in a number of autoimmune disorders. |
Anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibody (ASCA IgA)
This antibody recognizes an antigen in the cell wall of baker’s yeast. The presence of this antibody may reflect a generalized loss of immunotolerance or may represent cross reactivity to an unidentified pathogen. |
Antibody against CBir1 (Anti-CBir1)a
The antigen for this antibody is flagellin (CBir), a common moiety on mobile bacteria, including those found in the intestinal microflora. CBir was identified using serum from colitic mice to screen for
immunologic reactivity to cecal bacteria. |
Antihuman tissue transglutaminase (tTG)
Tissue transglutaminase is found in every tissue of the body and acts by joining proteins together to promote healing and bone growth. tTG also acts on gliadin, turning it into a toxic molecule for patients with celiac disease. |
TNF-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK)
Proinflammatory cytokines such as TWEAK promote wound healing, angiogenesis, and cell proliferation, although this cytokine can also promote inflammation in chronic conditions. |
Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1)
The predominant inhibitor and modulator of the metalloprotease, MMP9, which is responsible for intestinal matrix degradation and is increased in chronic inflammation conditions such as IBD. |
Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL)
Interacts with MMP9 and facilitates mucosal regeneration in the GI tract and down-regulation of
the immune response; it is also up-regulated in patients with IBD. |
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The PROMETHEUS IBS Diagnostic is not currently available to residents of New York State. |
