COMPENDIUM ON FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE - Flipbook - Page 437
Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP)
GFAP is an intermediate filament protein found primarily in
astrocytes, the star-shaped glial cells that support neuronal
function and help maintain the blood-brain barrier [38]. GFAP is
involved in:
● Astrocyte structure and mechanical stability [39]
● Astrocyte-neuron communication [40]
● Blood-brain barrier integrity [41]
● Response to neuronal injury [42]
Antibodies against GFAP may indicate astrocyte damage or
dysfunction, which can have widespread effects on neuronal
health and function [43]. Recent research has identified a specific
autoimmune condition known as autoimmune GFAP
astrocytopathy, characterized by antibodies targeting GFAP [44].
Clinical Applications of Array 7X
The Array 7X panel is particularly valuable in the assessment and
management of various neurological conditions:
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Array 7X can help detect early immune reactivity to myelin
components before clinically definitive MS develops [45]. It is
especially useful for:
● Identifying patients at high risk for MS progression [46]
● Distinguishing between multiple sclerosis and other
neurological conditions [47]
● Monitoring for early signs of relapse [48]
● Assessing response to immunomodulatory treatments [49]
437
