I-FABP (intestinal fatty acid-binding protein)

I-FABP (intestinal fatty acid-binding protein, also FABP2) occurs almost exclusively in the cells of the small-intestinal lining, especially at the tips of the villi. It is measured in serum; the blood sample is taken in a practice.

What I-FABP does in the body

In the gut cells, I-FABP transports fatty acids from food. If these cells are damaged, the protein enters the blood. Because it stays there only briefly and is quickly excreted by the kidneys, the value reflects the current state of the small-intestinal lining. It complements zonulin, which describes the permeability of the cell junctions.

Low I-FABP – what does it mean?

A low value is the normal case. It speaks against increased loss of small-intestinal lining cells at the time of the blood sample.

Raised I-FABP – what does it mean?

A raised value shows damage to the small-intestinal lining. Studies have observed this, for example, in active coeliac disease, after intense endurance exercise (temporarily reduced gut blood flow), with certain painkillers (NSAIDs) and with impaired blood flow to the gut. With reduced kidney function the value can also be higher. Severe, sudden abdominal pain always requires immediate medical attention.

The interpretation is given in your report.