Live

Celiac disease is more than just a gluten intolerance. It’s a chronic, often invisible autoimmune condition that has long puzzled doctors and patients alike. But now, a scientific breakthrough might finally offer the clarity and precision needed to change the game — not only in diagnosis but also in daily management of the disease.

Thanks to a brand-new certified reference material developed by scientists at the EU’s Joint Research Centre (JRC), we’re one step closer to consistent, accurate testing for celiac disease worldwide.

What Is Celiac Disease — And Why Is It So Hard to Diagnose?

Celiac disease affects genetically predisposed individuals whose immune systems react abnormally to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. When someone with celiac disease eats gluten, their immune system attacks the lining of the small intestine. Over time, this damages the tiny finger-like structures called villi, which help absorb nutrients.

The consequences? Nutrient deficiencies, anemia, skin and neurological issues, and in children, delayed growth.

It’s estimated that about 1% of the EU population — nearly 4.5 million people — live with celiac disease. But here’s the catch: many don’t even know it. Symptoms can vary widely or be misdiagnosed, and testing methods differ between countries and labs.

Uncertainty in Testing: A Long-Standing Problem

Today’s standard way of diagnosing celiac disease is through blood tests that measure specific antibodies — particularly anti-tTG antibodies. But here’s the issue: different labs use different tests, machines, and result interpretations. That means one person’s test results might look completely different depending on where they’re tested.

This lack of consistency often leads to delayed or incorrect diagnoses, making patients feel lost and frustrated.

A World-First Standard That Could Change Everything

Enter the first-ever certified reference material for celiac diagnostics — developed by the Joint Research Centre (JRC) in collaboration with the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency.

This new standard sets a global benchmark. It’s already been recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as an international standard for anti-tTG antibodies. One batch will be used by WHO, and the other will be distributed by the JRC to laboratories around the world.

Why is this such a big deal? Because now, test results from Berlin to Bucharest to Barcelona can be measured against the same reliable reference point. Doctors get better tools. Labs get consistent readings. And patients get faster, more accurate diagnoses.

Responding to a Global Clinical Need

The need for this kind of standard wasn’t random. The International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC) identified celiac disease as a priority for diagnostic harmonization.

And with its long track record of creating reference materials, the JRC took on the challenge — successfully.

The result? A tool that not only helps detect celiac disease more reliably but also helps monitor treatment effectiveness over time. Because while there’s no cure, celiac disease can be managed — if it’s properly diagnosed.

Food Safety: The Second Front in the Celiac Battle

Diagnosis is one thing. But for people with celiac disease, safe food is just as crucial. The only effective treatment is strict avoidance of gluten. That’s why the accurate labeling of gluten content in food is vital — and often just as complex.

EU regulations allow food to be labeled “gluten-free” if it contains less than 20 mg of gluten per kilogram. But recent JRC research shows that it’s not always easy to prove that — especially with products like beer.

In fact, the team at JRC found that current testing methods can miss degraded gluten proteins that still trigger immune reactions. And without a consistent reference standard for gluten content, it’s hard to trust the numbers.

Looking Ahead: From Diagnostics to Safer Foods

The JRC scientists are now calling for more in vivo toxicological studies and the development of new reference materials for food testing — similar to the ones that just revolutionized diagnostics.

Because whether it’s about identifying disease or choosing a safe snack, it all comes down to one thing: reliable, science-based standards.

Why This Matters — Especially for Young People

You might not hear about celiac disease every day, but for millions of Europeans — including young people — it’s a life-defining condition.

This new certified reference material is a major win for health equality and scientific precision. It means fewer misdiagnoses, faster treatment, and more confidence in what you eat.

In a world where evidence-based healthcare is more important than ever, this breakthrough is a reminder of what science — and European cooperation — can achieve.

Better tools. Better health. And a clearer path forward for those living with celiac disease.

Written by

Shape the conversation

Do you have anything to add to this story? Any ideas for interviews or angles we should explore? Let us know if you’d like to write a follow-up, a counterpoint, or share a similar story.

Write a counterargument article Write a related article