Tissue Transglutaminase: What It Is and How It Connects to Autoimmune Disease and Drug Safety

When your body attacks its own tissues, something’s gone wrong. tissue transglutaminase, an enzyme that helps repair damaged tissue by linking proteins together. Also known as TG2, it’s normally quiet—until the immune system mistakes it for a threat. That’s what happens in celiac disease. When someone with celiac eats gluten, their immune system targets tissue transglutaminase, thinking it’s part of the invader. The result? Damage to the small intestine, poor nutrient absorption, and long-term health risks.

This enzyme doesn’t just show up in celiac disease. It’s also linked to other autoimmune conditions like dermatitis herpetiformis and, in rare cases, drug-induced autoimmunity. Some medications can trigger abnormal immune responses that involve tissue transglutaminase, especially in people who are genetically prone. That’s why doctors test for tissue transglutaminase antibodies, the immune system’s signature response to the enzyme—it’s one of the most reliable markers for diagnosing celiac disease before major damage occurs. But it’s not just about diagnosis. Understanding how tissue transglutaminase behaves helps explain why some people don’t improve on a gluten-free diet, or why certain drugs might worsen symptoms.

And here’s the connection to the posts you’ll find below. Several articles here deal with autoimmune diseases like scleroderma, a condition where the immune system causes excessive collagen buildup, and how medications interact with the body’s internal systems. Others talk about drug safety, side effects, and how the body reacts over time. Tissue transglutaminase sits at the crossroads of all of that. It’s not just a lab marker—it’s a clue to how your immune system, your gut, and your meds are all talking to each other. If you’re dealing with unexplained digestive issues, skin rashes, or autoimmune symptoms, knowing about this enzyme might help you ask the right questions.

The posts here don’t just list facts—they show you how real people navigate diagnosis, treatment delays, and hidden drug risks. You’ll find guides on how to verify test results, what to do when medications cause unexpected reactions, and how to spot when your body is sending warning signals. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or just trying to understand why your doctor ordered that blood test, this collection gives you the practical context you need—no jargon, no fluff, just what matters.