A laboratory test to detect gliadin-specific CD4

Objectives: Discrepancy between serology and small bowel histology, such as seronegative CD, poses a diagnostic challenge in celiac disease (CD) diagnosis. Recently described methods to detect gliadin-specific T-cells are too laborious even in a specialized diagnostic setting. We developed a method, which can be implemented in specialized diagnostic laboratories. Methods: Gliadin-specific T-cells were analyzed by α1-and α2-gliadin peptide loaded Dextramers (Dm) in healthy controls (HC, n = 18), patients with non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS, n = 9), active CD (aCD, n = 7) and CD on a gluten free diet (GFD, n = 14). Control peptide (CLIP)-loaded Dm were used as background controls. The α-gliadin-Dm:CLIP-Dm ratio was calculated. In CD patients ≥5 years on GFD (n = 8), a randomized two-dose gluten challenge was performed to increase gliadin-specific T-cell frequencies. Results: Gliadin-specific CD4 Conclusions: Gliadin-specific T-cells can be detected in peripheral blood of CD patients using commercially available dextramers. These cells persist in CD patients on a GFD but may decline over time. A short term low-dose gluten challenge increased sensitivity. This simplified detection method of gliadin-specific T-cells is suitable for diagnostic challenging CD cases.