Gluten Issues are Genetic

For most of you with a gluten issue or Celiac you may not know that someone in your family also has the issue.  Gluten intolerance is not new nor is it just occurring.  However, before five years ago almost nothing was known about this issue.  As scientists and doctors have learned more they have found that this is something that you inherit from a family member.  So that means that someplace, someone in your family has the same issues.  Or in my case most of my family has this issue.


They can even now do home testing for this issue since they have found where the links are. The Doctors office is still the best way to get a diagnosis.   The genes for gluten issues are genetically transmitted on cell antigens (HLA DR3-DQ2, DR5/7 DQ2, and DR4-DQ8).  To many people this makes no sense so let me break it down for you.

HLA means human Leukocyte Antigen this is part of 6th chromosome of the DNA chain.  This controls the peptide reaction for basic immune system, the peptide portion is what recognizes familiar protein combinations from unfamiliar protein combinations IE it can tell you what a cell that you made is or a foreign invader.  When parts of this are damaged via genetics you end up with auto immune diseases. 

cell antigens HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen) DR3-DQ2 is where you would find those with auto immune issues including but not limited to Celiac and diabetes.  This comes from first degree relatives basically a direct line family member.  You are looking at parents as transmitters and children as the receivers of this really great genetic gift.

 HLA  DR5/7 DQ2 controls not only Celiac but also whether or not you get Lymphoma. 

HLA DR4-DQ8 is what controls if you get Type I diabetes, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Celiac.

What this means to you:

I will admit that this is very much over simplified to help promote a general understanding of the genetic issues that are involved.  

Used from Wikipedia

You may have all three of these HLA's or you may only have one.  However, you have to have gotten it from a relative.  Also if you have children they will all need to be tested for these HLA's. Even if they do not have any signs of celiac yet, this will let you know if they need to go on a gluten free diet or not.