Description

Gut Barrier Panel — Assessment of Gut Barrier Integrity and Immune Activation

Nationwide Shipping Available — At-Home Blood Spot Sample Collection

Overview

The Gut Barrier Panel is designed to help healthcare practitioners evaluate the degree of gut barrier dysfunction, ranging from mild sensitivities to significant inflammation and increased intestinal permeability ("leaky gut"). This panel measures specific immune markers—IgG 1-4 / C3d and IgA 1-2—targeting three key gatekeeper proteins involved in maintaining gut barrier integrity.

This test is a valuable tool in assessing gut health and is included within the broader FIT 176 and FIT 132 panels.

Purpose

  • Differentiate levels of gut barrier dysfunction and immune response
  • Detect early signs of increased intestinal permeability and inflammation
  • Support diagnosis and monitoring of gut-related conditions such as IBS, autoimmune disorders, and food sensitivities
  • Guide targeted nutritional, lifestyle, and therapeutic interventions

Key Biomarkers

  • Candida spp.:
  • Detects immune response to yeast overgrowth, which can contribute to gut irritation and dysbiosis.
  • Lipopolysaccharides (LPS):
  • Components of bacterial cell walls that, when elevated in circulation, indicate gut barrier breakdown and systemic immune activation.
  • Occludin:
  • A tight junction protein essential for maintaining gut barrier integrity; altered levels suggest compromised intestinal lining.
  • Zonulin:
  • A regulator of intestinal permeability; elevated zonulin levels correlate with leaky gut and associated inflammation.

Important Preparation Information

  • Hydrate well the day before sample collection to ensure accurate results.
  • No special diet or fasting is required before the test.
  • No specific timing restrictions apply.

Who Should Consider This Test

  • Individuals with symptoms of gut inflammation, food sensitivities, or IBS
  • Patients with autoimmune diseases or chronic inflammatory conditions
  • Those experiencing unexplained fatigue, skin issues, or systemic inflammation potentially linked to gut health
  • People looking to assess gut barrier function during digestive health evaluations or gut healing protocols

Test Details

  • Sample Type: Blood spot
  • Shipping: Nationwide shipping available for kit delivery and sample return
  • Turnaround Time: Approximately 10 business days after lab receives the sample