Leucine-rich alpha-2 glycoprotein as a blood biomarker in inflammatory bowel disease: clinical implications and future perspectives

INTRODUCTION: Reliable biomarkers for monitoring inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remain an unmet clinical need, particularly in patients receiving biologic therapies where C-reactive protein (CRP) responses may be attenuated. Leucine-rich alpha-2 glycoprotein (LRG) is a novel acute-phase reactant regulated by multiple cytokines, potentially less dependent on interleukin-6 than CRP. AREAS COVERED: This narrative review synthesizes recent Japanese real-world data and emerging international literature on LRG, outlining its biological characteristics, early clinical applications, and evidence in ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Key topics include correlations with clinical, endoscopic, and histologic activity; proposed cutoff values; comparisons with conventional biomarkers; diagnostic performance in small bowel disease; and its role in therapeutic monitoring, including postoperative assessment. EXPERT OPINION: LRG shows strong correlations with mucosal and transmural inflammation across IBD phenotypes, retains sensitivity in biologic-treated patients or those with normal CRP, and predicts treatment response. Its rapid turnaround and noninvasive nature make it well suited to treat-to-target strategies. However, most evidence originates from Japan, limiting generalizability until confirmed in large, multicenter international cohorts. Broader adoption will require assay standardization, validation across diverse populations, and integration into composite indices to optimize individualized care. If validated globally, LRG could transform precision monitoring and enhance outcomes in clinical practice.