Skip to main content
DNA Labs India

Bacterial V3-V4 16S rRNA Amplicon Sequencing Data Analysis Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

Bacterial V3-V4 16S rRNA Amplicon Sequencing Data Analysis Test

Short Name: 16S rRNA Sequencing

Also known as: 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing, Bacterial Identification by NGS, Microbiome Analysis

Bacterial V3-V4 16S rRNA Amplicon Sequencing Data Analysis Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹5,000. Uses Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), 16S rRNA Amplicon Sequencing on Extracted DNA samples. Results in Reports are typically delivered within 4 weeks after the sample is received by the laboratory.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Molecular🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

The primary purpose of this test is to identify and classify bacterial strains present in a clinical specimen by sequencing the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene. It is used to diagnose bacterial infections, especially those that are difficult to culture, identify mixed infections, and provide information for targeted antimicrobial therapy. The test also helps in epidemiological studies and microbiome analysis.

Test Code
6379
CPT Code
N/A
ICD Code
N/A
Price
₹5,000
Sample Type
Extracted DNA
Result Time
Reports are typically delivered within 4 weeks after the sample is received by the laboratory.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), 16S rRNA Amplicon Sequencing
Step 1

Sample Collection

No special preparation is required. However, inform your doctor about any antibiotics you are taking, as this may affect the test results.

Method: Blood, swab, or body fluid as per clinical need

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

Sample collection is performed by a trained phlebotomist or healthcare professional. The type of sample (blood, swab, fluid) depends on the clinical indication.

Step 3

Report Delivery

No specific aftercare is needed. You can resume normal activities immediately.

Timeline: Reports are typically delivered within 4 weeks after the sample is received by the laboratory.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No special preparation is required. Inform your doctor about any medications, especially antibiotics, as they may affect the results.
2
During the Test:A sample (blood, swab, or fluid) will be collected by a healthcare professional. The procedure is quick and minimally invasive.
3
After the Test:You can resume normal activities. The sample will be processed in the lab, and results will be available in about 4 weeks.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The primary purpose of this test is to identify and classify bacterial strains present in a clinical specimen by sequencing the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene. It is used to diagnose bacterial infections, especially those that are difficult to culture, identify mixed infections, and provide information for targeted antimicrobial therapy. The test also helps in epidemiological studies and microbiome analysis.

How to Prepare

  • Ensure the sample is collected in a sterile container
  • Label the container with patient details
  • Transport the sample to the lab at the recommended temperature (2-8°C if not processed immediately)

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670

"This advanced molecular test is invaluable for identifying bacteria that are difficult to culture or when a precise species-level identification is needed for targeted therapy. It helps in managing infections with precision, reducing the risk of antibiotic resistance."

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, swab, or body fluid as per clinical need

Sample Stability

Extracted DNA: Stable at -20°C for up to 6 months
Clinical samples (swab/fluid): Stable at 2-8°C for 24-48 hours
Blood: Stable at 2-8°C for up to 72 hours
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Insufficient DNA quantity (<10 ng/µL)
  • Degraded DNA (e.g., repeated freeze-thaw)
  • Improperly labeled or contaminated samples
  • Samples received in inappropriate transport media

Understanding Your Results

The results of this test provide a detailed report of the bacterial species identified in the sample, along with their relative abundances. This information helps clinicians determine the causative organism(s) of infection and guide appropriate antimicrobial therapy.
📊

Likely causative pathogen; targeted therapy can be initiated.

📊

Polymicrobial infection; consider combination therapy or further testing.

📊

May indicate non-bacterial etiology or low bacterial load; clinical correlation required.

📊

May be normal flora or contamination; interpret in clinical context.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult your physician if you have persistent symptoms of infection, or if you have received this test and need help interpreting the results. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms such as high fever, difficulty breathing, or confusion.

Limitations

  • Cannot differentiate between live and dead bacteria
  • May not detect all bacterial species due to primer bias
  • Requires sufficient bacterial DNA for reliable results
  • Interpretation may be limited by reference databases
  • Not a substitute for culture-based susceptibility testing

Risks & Considerations

  • Minimal risk of bruising or bleeding at the collection site
  • Infection at the collection site (rare)
  • No significant risks associated with the test itself

Interfering Factors

  • Contamination during sample collection or processing
  • Low DNA quantity or quality
  • Presence of host DNA (e.g., human DNA) reducing bacterial signal
  • PCR inhibitors in the sample (e.g., heme, bile salts)
  • Prior antibiotic therapy may reduce bacterial load

Compare With Similar Tests

TestBacterial V3-V4 16S rRNA Amplicon Sequencing Data AnalysisCulture and SensitivityPCR (Targeted)Sanger Sequencing
ComparisonBacterial V3-V4 16S rRNA Amplicon Sequencing Data Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of the Bacterial V3-V4 16S rRNA Amplicon Sequencing Data Analysis?
The test costs INR 5000 at DNA Labs India, which includes sequencing and data analysis. Free home sample collection is available for online bookings.
What sample is required for this test?
The test requires extracted DNA. The DNA can be extracted from various clinical samples such as blood, swabs, or body fluids, depending on the infection site.
How long does it take to get the results?
The turnaround time is approximately 4 weeks from the time the sample is received by the laboratory.
Is fasting required before the test?
No, fasting is not required for this test.
Can this test identify all types of bacteria?
The test targets the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene, which is present in all bacteria. However, due to primer bias, some rare or novel bacteria may not be detected. It is highly accurate for most clinically relevant bacteria.
Is home sample collection available?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for this test in many cities across India. You can book online and a trained phlebotomist will visit your location.
What is the difference between this test and a routine culture?
This test uses advanced sequencing to identify bacteria directly from the sample, even if they are difficult to culture. Culture requires live bacteria to grow and may take longer or fail for some organisms.
Can this test detect antibiotic resistance?
No, this test identifies the bacteria but does not provide antibiotic susceptibility. For resistance information, a culture and sensitivity test is required.
Who should consider this test?
Patients with persistent infections, culture-negative results, or those who are immunocompromised may benefit. It is also useful for monitoring microbiome changes.
Are there any risks associated with the test?
The test is safe. The only risk is minimal discomfort or bruising at the sample collection site, similar to a routine blood draw.
How should I prepare for the test?
No special preparation is needed. Inform your doctor about any antibiotics you are taking, as they may affect the bacterial load.
Will my insurance cover this test?
Coverage depends on your insurance policy. It is advisable to check with your provider. DNA Labs India offers the test at an affordable price of INR 5000.
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.

Related Tests

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.

Book Your Test

Enter your details and we'll connect you within 15 minutes.

🧬

Quick Connect

Enter your mobile number and we’ll connect you with the team.

+91

✅ Connecting you now...

🔒 Your number is used to respond to this request.