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DNA Labs India

Bacterial V3-V4 16S rRNA Amplicon Sequencing Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

Bacterial V3-V4 16S rRNA Amplicon Sequencing Test

Short Name: 16S rRNA Sequencing

Also known as: 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing, Bacterial Amplicon Sequencing, V3-V4 16S Sequencing

Bacterial V3-V4 16S rRNA Amplicon Sequencing Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹7,000. Uses Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), PCR Amplification on Extracted DNA samples. Results in Reports are typically delivered within 4 weeks after sample collection.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Molecular🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

The primary purpose of Bacterial V3-V4 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing is to identify the causative bacterial agent in patients with suspected bacterial infections, especially when conventional cultures fail. It helps in detecting uncommon, fastidious, or slow-growing bacteria, and provides a definitive diagnosis for targeted antimicrobial therapy. The test is also useful in epidemiological studies and outbreak investigations.

Test Code
6361
CPT Code
N/A
ICD Code
N/A
Price
₹7,000
Sample Type
Extracted DNA
Result Time
Reports are typically delivered within 4 weeks after sample collection.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), PCR Amplification
Step 1

Sample Collection

No special preparation is required. Inform your doctor about any antibiotics you are taking.

Method: Blood/Urine/Stool/Body fluid/Tissue

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

Sample collection is performed by a trained phlebotomist or healthcare professional.

Step 3

Report Delivery

No specific aftercare required. You can resume normal activities immediately.

Timeline: Reports are typically delivered within 4 weeks after sample collection.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No special preparation required. Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking.
2
During the Test:A sample (blood, urine, stool, etc.) will be collected. For home collection, a technician will visit you.
3
After the Test:You can resume normal activities. Results will be available in 4 weeks.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The primary purpose of Bacterial V3-V4 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing is to identify the causative bacterial agent in patients with suspected bacterial infections, especially when conventional cultures fail. It helps in detecting uncommon, fastidious, or slow-growing bacteria, and provides a definitive diagnosis for targeted antimicrobial therapy. The test is also useful in epidemiological studies and outbreak investigations.

How to Prepare

  • Sample type: Extracted DNA (provided by referring lab or collected at home)
  • For home collection, a technician will visit your location
  • Ensure the sample is transported in a sterile container

Doctor's Notes

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

"16S rRNA sequencing is invaluable for identifying fastidious or unculturable bacteria, guiding targeted antimicrobial therapy."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeExtracted DNA
Sample VolumeAs per requirement
ContainerSterile tube
Collection MethodBlood/Urine/Stool/Body fluid/Tissue

Sample Stability

DNA is stable at -20°C for up to 6 months
Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
Store at 2-8°C for short-term storage
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Insufficient quantity of DNA
  • Degraded DNA
  • Improper labeling
  • Sample not stored at appropriate temperature

Understanding Your Results

The results of Bacterial V3-V4 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing will indicate the presence or absence of bacterial DNA and identify the specific bacterial species. The interpretation should be done by a qualified healthcare professional in the context of the patient's clinical condition.
📊

No bacterial DNA detected

No bacterial infection identified; consider other etiologies.

📊

Single bacterial species identified

Likely causative agent; guide targeted antibiotic therapy.

📊

Multiple bacterial species identified

Polymicrobial infection; consider mixed infection management.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult your doctor if you have persistent symptoms of infection, such as fever, chills, or localized pain, especially if conventional tests are negative. Early diagnosis can lead to better treatment outcomes.

Limitations

  • Cannot differentiate between live and dead bacteria
  • May not detect all bacterial species due to database limitations
  • Requires high-quality extracted DNA
  • Not quantitative; does not provide bacterial load
  • May not detect viruses or fungi

Risks & Considerations

  • Minimal risk of bruising or bleeding at the collection site
  • No significant risks associated with this test

Interfering Factors

  • Contamination of sample with environmental bacteria
  • Insufficient bacterial DNA in the sample
  • Prior antibiotic therapy may reduce bacterial load
  • Improper sample collection or storage

Compare With Similar Tests

TestBacterial V3-V4 16S rRNA Amplicon SequencingConventional Bacterial Culture16S rRNA Sequencing
ComparisonBacterial V3-V4 16S rRNA Amplicon Sequencing

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bacterial V3-V4 16S rRNA Amplicon Sequencing?
It is a molecular diagnostic test that identifies bacterial species by sequencing the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene.
Why is this test done?
It is done to identify bacteria causing infections, especially when conventional cultures are negative or difficult.
What sample is required?
Extracted DNA from blood, urine, stool, body fluid, or tissue.
Do I need to fast before the test?
No, fasting is not required.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are available in 4 weeks.
What is the cost of the test?
The cost is INR 7000.
Is home sample collection available?
Yes, free home sample collection is available for online bookings.
Can this test detect all bacteria?
It can detect most bacteria, but some may not be identified due to database limitations.
Is the test covered by insurance?
Insurance coverage is not guaranteed; please check with your provider.
What are the symptoms of a bacterial infection?
Common symptoms include fever, chills, fatigue, body aches, nausea, and diarrhea.
How is the test performed?
DNA is extracted from the sample, amplified by PCR, and sequenced using NGS technology.
Are there any risks?
Risks are minimal, mainly related to sample collection like bruising.
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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