What is MRT Testing?
What is MRT Testing?
The Mediator Release Test (MRT) is a patented blood test developed by Oxford Biomedical Technologies that identifies food sensitivities by measuring the inflammatory response your immune system produces when exposed to specific foods and chemicals.
Unlike traditional allergy tests (IgE skin prick tests) that detect immediate allergic reactions, the MRT measures Type III and Type IV delayed hypersensitivity reactions — the kind that can cause symptoms hours or even days after eating a trigger food.
How the MRT Works
🩸 Step 1: Blood Draw
A small blood sample (approximately 4.5mL in a Blue Top tube) is drawn by a qualified phlebotomist at a lab or via mobile draw service.
🔬 Step 2: Lab Analysis
Your blood is exposed to 176 different substances. The lab measures changes in the ratio of solids to liquids in your blood — a direct indicator of mediator release (histamine, cytokines, prostaglandins).
đź“Š Step 3: Results
Each substance is classified into one of three categories: Green (Low), Yellow (Moderate), or Red (Reactive) based on the volume of mediator release detected.
đź“‹ Step 4: LEAP Protocol
A Certified LEAP Therapist uses your results to build a personalized elimination diet — the LEAP ImmunoCalm® Dietary Protocol — starting with your safest foods.
The 176 Panel
The MRT tests your blood against 176 substances:
- 149 Food Antigens — covering proteins, grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy, seafood, nuts, legumes, spices, and more
- 27 Chemical Additives — including food dyes (Red 40, Yellow 5), preservatives (sodium benzoate, BHA/BHT), sweeteners (aspartame, sucralose), and MSG
For the complete list of all 176 tested substances, visit our 176 Panel Reference page.
Conditions Associated with Food Sensitivities
Delayed food sensitivities identified by the MRT have been clinically associated with a wide range of conditions, including:
IBS, Crohn’s, bloating, acid reflux, chronic diarrhea, constipation
Migraines, brain fog, chronic fatigue, insomnia, anxiety
Fibromyalgia, joint pain, muscle aches, inflammation
Eczema, psoriasis, acne, chronic hives, skin rashes
MRT vs. Other Food Sensitivity Tests
| Test | What It Measures | Reaction Type | Clinical Protocol |
|---|---|---|---|
| MRT (LEAP) | Mediator release (volumetric) | Type III & IV (delayed) | ✅ LEAP ImmunoCalm® |
| IgG Blood Test | IgG antibody levels | Exposure marker (debated) | ❌ None standardized |
| IgE Skin Prick | IgE-mediated histamine | Type I (immediate allergy) | Allergen avoidance |
| Elimination Diet Only | Symptom tracking | All types | Self-guided |
Getting Tested
To take the MRT, you need:
- A Certified LEAP Therapist to order the test and interpret results — Find a CLT near you
- A blood draw location to have the 4.5mL Blue Top Kit drawn — Find a blood draw lab
- 10-14 business days for lab processing and results delivery
This page is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for consultation with a Certified LEAP Therapist or licensed healthcare provider.
Last updated: April 26, 2026