The association between semaphorin 3A levels and gluten-free diet in patients with celiac disease

Celiac disease (CD) is an inflammatory disease affecting the small intestine. We aim to assess serum level and expression of semaphorin 3A (Sema3A) on T regulatory (Treg) cells in CD patients. Twenty-six newly diagnosed celiac patients, 13 celiac patients on a gluten-free diet and 16 healthy controls included in the study. Sema3A protein level in the serum of celiac patients was significantly higher compared to healthy group (7.17 ± 1.8 ng/ml vs. 5.67 ± 1.5 ng/ml, p = 0.012). Sema3A expression on Treg cells was statistically lower in celiac patients compared to healthy subjects (p = 0.009) and significantly lower in celiac patients compared to celiac patients on gluten free diet (p = 0.04). Negative correlation was found between Sema3A on Teg cells and the level of IgA anti-tTG antibodies (r = − 0.346, p < 0.01) and anti-DGP (r = − 0.448, p < 0.01). This study suggests involvement of the Sema3A in the pathogenesis of CD.