Mechanisms underlying celiac disease and its neurologic manifestations

Cell Mol Life Sci. 2005 Apr;62(7-8):791-9. doi: 10.1007/s00018-004-4109-9.

Abstract

The extra-intestinal manifestations of celiac disease (CD), including ataxia and peripheral neuropathy, are increasingly being recognized as the presenting symptoms of this autoimmune disease. Although there is a greater understanding of the pathogenesis of the intestinal lesions in CD the mechanisms behind the neurologic manifestations of CD have not been elucidated. In this article, the authors review the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind the histopathologic changes in the intestine, discuss the presentation and characteristics of neurologic manifestations of CD, review the data on the mechanisms behind these manifestations, and discuss the diagnosis and treatment of CD. Molecular mimicry and intermolecular help may play a role in the development of neurologic complications.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Autoimmune Diseases / etiology*
  • Autoimmune Diseases / immunology
  • Celiac Disease / complications
  • Celiac Disease / diagnosis
  • Celiac Disease / immunology
  • Celiac Disease / physiopathology*
  • Glutens / immunology
  • Humans
  • Intestines / enzymology
  • Intestines / immunology
  • Intestines / pathology
  • Nervous System Diseases / etiology
  • Nervous System Diseases / immunology
  • Nervous System Diseases / physiopathology*
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes / pathology
  • Transglutaminases / metabolism

Substances

  • Glutens
  • Transglutaminases