Antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA)

Antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA) are proteins produced by the immune system that mistakenly target and attack the mitochondria, the energy-producing parts of cells. They are most commonly associated with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), a liver disease that can damage the bile ducts. When AMAs are present, they can indicate an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. Detecting these antibodies can help in diagnosing such conditions, guiding treatment decisions, and monitoring disease progression.