Coeliac Disease Genetic

Coeliac disease, an extreme form of allergy to gluten, is probably a genetic, inherited disorder according to researchers at the University of Naples in Italy.

Researchers lokked at identical and non-identical twins (where at least one twin showed symptoms of the condition) to determine how far the condition depends on genetic as opposed to environmental factors. This method is often used to asses the genetic causes of diseases as identical twins share the same genetic make-up, while non-identical twins do not.

In blood tests, 75% of identical twins both showed signs of coeliac disease, while only 11% of non-identical twins shared symptoms. According to Professor L.Greco, leading the study, "This study provides substantial evidence for a very strong genetic component in coeliac disease".

Friday, 24 May 2002