Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP) details
What Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP) shows
Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) is a structural protein found in astrocytes, support cells in the brain and spinal cord, and it's released into the bloodstream when these cells are injured. It's an emerging marker being studied and increasingly used to help evaluate traumatic brain injury (including some rapid blood tests now used to help decide whether a head injury needs a CT scan) and is also being researched in other neurological conditions. It reflects brain cell injury broadly rather than pointing to any single specific diagnosis on its own.
Tests that include Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP)
Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) is a protein expressed in astrocytes, cells that support neurons and help form the blood-brain barrier, found within the central nervous system (CNS), and is involved in several important CNS processes. It is a marker of astrogliosis and is upregulated in the brain as a result of attempts at repair and the formation of a glial scar. Glial scarring occurs as a result of several neurodegenerative processes, including Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, and neuromyelitis optica. It can also be seen after damaging pathological events such as traumatic brain injury and stroke [1]. Increased presence of GFAP can also be observed in association with brain tumors such as glioblastoma multiforme [2]. GFAP expression is known to decrease in disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression [3].
- Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP) A protein released by brain support cells (astrocytes) when they're injured. Studied as a marker of brain injury and certain neurological conditions.
This test measures glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), a protein found primarily in astrocytes, which are supportive cells in the central nervous system. GFAP levels may help assess injury or damage to the brain and nervous system and are sometimes evaluated in the context of neurological conditions, traumatic brain injury, and neuroinflammatory disorders.
- Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP) A protein released by brain support cells (astrocytes) when they're injured. Studied as a marker of brain injury and certain neurological conditions.
Not sure how to read your results? We can help.
Schedule a consultation with a Hormunity specialist. We’ll walk through every marker, interpret what it means for you, and map out the next steps for your care.
Book a specialist