Serum metabolomics and lipoproteomics discriminate celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity patients

Background&aims: Celiac disease (CD) and potential CD (pCD) are immune-mediated disorders triggered by the ingestion of gluten. In non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) neither allergic nor autoimmune mechanisms are involved. Relationships between NCGS and CD need to be further investigated.

Methods: Serum metabolomics and lipoproteomics, performed via nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, were used to characterize these three gluten-related disorders. Lasso regression models were calculated to discriminate the groups of interest.

Results: Several metabolites and lipoprotein-related parameters (particularly those associated with HDL cholesterol) allowed the selective discrimination between CD (and pCD) and NCGS. This evidence pointed to possible alterations of the gut microbiota in NCGS patients. Cross-validated regression models were able to discriminate between CD and NCGS, and pCD and NCGS with AUCs of 0.90 and 0.83, respectively.

Conclusion: This pilot study suggests changes in the gut microbiota and paves the way to the elucidation of the underlying mechanisms of NCGS.