Antibodies against GAD, the rate-limiting enzyme for the synthesis of GABA, were initially recognized in the serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with stiff person syndrome (SPS), a rare central nervous system (CNS) disorder which produces rigidity, and cramps frequently associated with other autoimmune diseases, mainly type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). This evidence concerns the gene GAD1 and autoimmune disease.