The Gut Zoomer does not directly indicate where intestinal damage has occurred. However, certain markers and panels may give insights into gut function in the small intestine or large intestine (colon).
- Calprotectin and lactoferrin markers are more suggestive of colon inflammation and are associated with inflammatory bowel disease.
- Short chain fatty acids (SCFA) are produced by colonic bacteria, thus abnormal levels of SCFA may be indicative of impaired colon function.
- The secondary bile acids, deoxycholic acid (DCA) and lithocholic acid (LCA), are normal components of the luminal content of the small intestine, but at high levels the secondary bile acids act as toxins to the colon and are associated with colon cancer risk.
- Secretory IgA is primarily induced by gut commensals in the small intestine, much more so than the colon.
- The SIBO panel is suggestive of bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.
Additionally, the Wheat Zoomer tTG/DGP Complex (Fusion Peptide) can indicate whether damage has occurred in the small intestine when results are elevated.
