Deamidated gliadin peptide (DGP) is a modified form of gliadin, a protein component of gluten found in wheat and related grains. The significance of DGP as a biomarker emerged from research into celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder triggered by ingestion of gluten in genetically predisposed individuals. In the early 2000s, studies revealed that deamidation—a process in which glutamine residues in gliadin are converted to glutamic acid—enhances the immunogenic properties of the protein, leading to a more robust immune response. As a result, DGP became a key focus in diagnostic testing for celiac disease, with assays detecting antibodies against DGP proving to be highly sensitive and specific. This advancement has contributed to improved diagnostic accuracy and offered new insights into disease mechanisms, solidifying DGP's role in clinical practice and research related to gluten-related disorders.

Elevated levels of deamidated gliadin peptides (DGP) typically indicate an active immune response to gluten, suggesting a possibility of gluten sensitivity or related disorders such as celiac disease. In contrast, low levels of DGP may suggest that the immune system is not reacting to gluten, which could indicate that gluten is not a contributing factor to the patient's symptoms. However, it is important to consider that low levels can also occur in individuals who are adhering to a strict gluten-free diet, thereby reducing immune activation. Therefore, interpreting DGP levels requires a comprehensive assessment of the clinical context, including dietary habits and symptomatology, to understand the implications for gluten-related disorders.

Deamidated gliadin peptide (DGP) is a critical biomarker featured in the Gut Zoomer panel, which assesses immune responses to gliadin, a component of gluten. Elevated levels of DGP indicate a potential sensitivity to gluten, aiding practitioners in evaluating conditions such as celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. By incorporating DGP analysis, the Gut Zoomer provides a comprehensive understanding of an individual's gluten-related health status, facilitating tailored dietary and therapeutic approaches for optimal gut health and overall wellness.