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DNA Labs India

Bacterial Genome Sequencing and Reference Based Analysis Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

Bacterial Genome Sequencing and Reference Based Analysis Test

Short Name: Bacterial Genome Sequencing

Also known as: Bacterial WGS, Reference-based bacterial sequencing, Bacterial genome analysis

Bacterial Genome Sequencing and Reference Based Analysis Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹24,000. Uses Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), Reference-based bioinformatics analysis on Extracted DNA samples. Results in Results are typically available within 8 weeks after the sample reaches the laboratory.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Molecular🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

The purpose of bacterial genome sequencing and reference-based analysis is to provide a comprehensive genetic profile of a bacterial pathogen. This includes precise identification of the bacterial species and strain, detection of virulence factors that contribute to pathogenicity, and identification of antibiotic resistance genes that may predict treatment failure. This information aids clinicians in selecting the most effective antibiotics, implementing appropriate infection control measures, and understanding the epidemiology of the infection. Additionally, it can be used for outbreak investigations, molecular typing, and surveillance of emerging resistance patterns.

Test Code
6339
CPT Code
N/A
ICD Code
N/A
Price
₹24,000
Sample Type
Extracted DNA
Result Time
Results are typically available within 8 weeks after the sample reaches the laboratory.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), Reference-based bioinformatics analysis
Step 1

Sample Collection

No special preparation is required. However, if the sample is a bacterial culture, it should be collected in a sterile container and transported to the laboratory as per instructions.

Method: Blood or isolated bacterial culture

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

The sample (blood or bacterial culture) will be collected by a trained phlebotomist or laboratory technician. For blood samples, standard venipuncture procedure will be followed.

Step 3

Report Delivery

No specific aftercare is needed. The sample will be processed in the laboratory, and results will be available in approximately 8 weeks.

Timeline: Results are typically available within 8 weeks after the sample reaches the laboratory.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No special preparation is required. Inform your doctor about any antibiotics you are currently taking, as this may affect the results.
2
During the Test:A sample of blood or bacterial culture will be collected. The procedure is quick and minimally invasive.
3
After the Test:You can resume normal activities immediately. Results will be available in 8 weeks.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The purpose of bacterial genome sequencing and reference-based analysis is to provide a comprehensive genetic profile of a bacterial pathogen. This includes precise identification of the bacterial species and strain, detection of virulence factors that contribute to pathogenicity, and identification of antibiotic resistance genes that may predict treatment failure. This information aids clinicians in selecting the most effective antibiotics, implementing appropriate infection control measures, and understanding the epidemiology of the infection. Additionally, it can be used for outbreak investigations, molecular typing, and surveillance of emerging resistance patterns.

How to Prepare

  • Ensure the sample is labeled correctly with patient identification
  • If providing a bacterial culture, use a sterile swab or container
  • Transport the sample to the laboratory at the earliest to maintain viability
  • For blood samples, use an EDTA or citrate tube as instructed

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Medical Genetics) · Reg. No. 8532

"Bacterial genome sequencing provides critical information for managing complex infections, especially when standard cultures fail or resistance is suspected. This test aids in targeted therapy and infection control."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeExtracted DNA
Sample Volume10-50 ng/µL (as per lab requirement)
ContainerSterile microcentrifuge tube
Collection MethodBlood or isolated bacterial culture

Sample Stability

Extracted DNA: stable for 1 year at -20°C
Bacterial culture: stable for 48 hours at 2-8°C
Blood sample: stable for 24 hours at 2-8°C
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Hemolyzed blood sample
  • Insufficient quantity of DNA
  • Improperly labeled sample
  • Sample not transported under appropriate conditions

Understanding Your Results

The results of bacterial genome sequencing and reference-based analysis are interpreted by a clinical geneticist and an infectious disease specialist. The report will include the identified bacterial species, strain, and presence of virulence and resistance genes. This information should be correlated with clinical findings and other laboratory tests to guide patient management.
📊

Presence of antibiotic resistance genes

Indicates potential resistance to specific antibiotics; alternative therapy may be required.

📊

Presence of virulence genes

Suggests increased pathogenicity; may warrant more aggressive treatment or monitoring.

📊

Specific strain identified

Helps in epidemiological tracking and outbreak management.

📊

No significant variants detected

The bacterium is genetically similar to the reference strain; standard treatment may be effective.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult your physician if you have persistent or severe symptoms of a bacterial infection, or if you have been referred for this test. Your doctor will interpret the results and recommend appropriate treatment.

Limitations

  • This test is not a substitute for standard culture and susceptibility testing; it provides genetic information that may not always correlate with phenotypic resistance
  • Results may not be available for slow-growing or unculturable bacteria
  • Interpretation requires specialized bioinformatics expertise
  • Cost may be prohibitive for routine use

Risks & Considerations

  • Minimal risk of bruising or infection at the blood draw site
  • No significant risks associated with the test itself

Interfering Factors

  • Poor quality or degraded DNA can lead to incomplete sequencing
  • Contamination with host DNA or other bacterial species may affect results
  • Insufficient bacterial DNA concentration may require additional amplification steps
  • Reference genome choice may influence variant calling accuracy

Compare With Similar Tests

TestBacterial Genome Sequencing and Reference Based AnalysisConventional Culture and SensitivityPCR-based AssaysWhole Genome Sequencing (WGS)
ComparisonBacterial Genome Sequencing and Reference Based Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

What is bacterial genome sequencing?
Bacterial genome sequencing is a technique that determines the complete DNA sequence of a bacterium, providing detailed genetic information about the organism.
What is reference-based analysis?
Reference-based analysis compares the sequenced genome to a known reference genome to identify genetic variations such as mutations, insertions, and deletions.
What is the cost of the test?
The cost is INR 24,000, which includes home sample collection and comprehensive analysis.
What sample is required?
The test requires extracted DNA, which can be obtained from a blood sample or a bacterial culture.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 8 weeks after the sample is received.
Is fasting required?
No, fasting is not required for this test.
Can this test detect antibiotic resistance?
Yes, the test can identify genes associated with antibiotic resistance, which helps guide treatment.
Is home sample collection available?
Yes, we offer free home sample collection for online bookings across India.
What are the common symptoms of bacterial infections?
Common symptoms include fever, chills, body aches, cough, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and urinary symptoms.
How is this test different from standard culture?
This test provides genetic information that can identify strains and resistance genes, while culture provides phenotypic data on growth and antibiotic susceptibility.
Who should consider this test?
Patients with recurrent, severe, or antibiotic-resistant infections, or those with inconclusive conventional testing, may benefit.
Is the test covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on the insurance provider; it is advisable to check with your insurance company.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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For Hospitals & Clinics

Reference Laboratory Services

We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.

LIMS Integration

Your Data Privacy

Your medical data is protected under Indian law.

Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.

DPDP Act Compliant: Under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, you can request deletion of your records at any time by contacting support.

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