A group of autoantibodies directed against components of the insulin-secreting beta cells of the pancreas. They are usually detectable in the blood of people presenting with type 1 diabetes. Antibodies against glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) in beta cells have become a more specific test for islet cell antibodies, to help confirm a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes.

Unit 4,

Reference: Oxford Concise Colour Medical Dictionary (7th Edition, Kindle Edition) Oxford University Press 2020 ISBN-13: 978-0198836629, p1772