Eukaryotic mRNA Sequencing and Reference Based Analysis Test
Short Name: mRNA Sequencing
Also known as: mRNA Seq, Transcriptome Sequencing, RNA Sequencing
Eukaryotic mRNA Sequencing and Reference Based Analysis Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹24,000. Uses High-throughput sequencing, Reference-based alignment on Extracted DNA samples. Results in Reports are typically available within 8 weeks from sample receipt.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Pasupathy Arumugam
Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of eukaryotic mRNA sequencing and reference-based analysis is to identify genetic variations that affect gene expression and splicing, which may be the underlying cause of a patient's symptoms. Unlike DNA sequencing, which looks at the genetic code, mRNA sequencing examines the actual transcripts produced, providing a functional readout of gene activity. This can help diagnose conditions where DNA variants are not clearly pathogenic, or where the disease mechanism involves abnormal RNA processing. The test is also valuable for detecting fusion genes, alternative splicing events, and allele-specific expression, which are important in cancer and genetic disorders.
- Test Code
- 6421
- CPT Code
- 81445
- ICD Code
- Z01.89
- Price
- ₹24,000
- Sample Type
- Extracted DNA
- Result Time
- Reports are typically available within 8 weeks from sample receipt.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- High-throughput sequencing, Reference-based alignment
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required. However, inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, as some drugs may affect gene expression. Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours before sample collection.
Method: Blood draw
Laboratory Analysis
A blood sample will be collected by a trained phlebotomist. The procedure is quick and minimally invasive.
Report Delivery
You can resume normal activities immediately. The sample will be transported to the laboratory under controlled conditions.
Timeline: Reports are typically available within 8 weeks from sample receipt.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of eukaryotic mRNA sequencing and reference-based analysis is to identify genetic variations that affect gene expression and splicing, which may be the underlying cause of a patient's symptoms. Unlike DNA sequencing, which looks at the genetic code, mRNA sequencing examines the actual transcripts produced, providing a functional readout of gene activity. This can help diagnose conditions where DNA variants are not clearly pathogenic, or where the disease mechanism involves abnormal RNA processing. The test is also valuable for detecting fusion genes, alternative splicing events, and allele-specific expression, which are important in cancer and genetic disorders.
How to Prepare
- Ensure the sample is collected in an EDTA tube
- Maintain sample at 2-8°C during transport
- Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
- Provide accurate clinical history for better interpretation
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Pasupathy Arumugam — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521
"mRNA sequencing provides a dynamic view of gene expression, complementing DNA-based tests. It is particularly valuable when DNA variants of uncertain significance are identified, as it can reveal splicing or expression abnormalities that may explain the clinical phenotype."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed or clotted blood sample
- Insufficient sample volume
- Sample not stored at appropriate temperature
- Sample older than 48 hours without proper preservation
Understanding Your Results
May indicate overexpression due to oncogenic activation or regulatory defects
Clinical action: Correlate with clinical symptoms; consider targeted therapy if cancer-related
May indicate loss of function due to mutation or epigenetic silencing
Clinical action: Assess for inherited disorders; consider genetic counseling
Suggests splice site mutations or splicing factor abnormalities
Clinical action: Confirm with DNA sequencing; evaluate for spliceopathy
Common in cancers; may be targetable
Clinical action: Refer to oncology for targeted therapy options
No clinically relevant mRNA alterations detected
Clinical action: Consider other diagnostic tests; clinical correlation advised
Consult your referring physician or a genetic counselor to discuss the results and their implications for your health. If the test reveals a pathogenic variant, you may be referred to a specialist for further management.
Limitations
- ⚠mRNA sequencing may not detect all types of genetic variations, such as large deletions or structural variants
- ⚠Expression levels can vary by tissue type; blood may not reflect affected tissue
- ⚠Interpretation may be limited by incomplete reference databases
- ⚠Not a substitute for whole genome sequencing in all cases
- ⚠Results may require confirmation by functional studies
Risks & Considerations
- ●Bruising or discomfort at the blood draw site
- ●Rare risk of infection (minimal with sterile technique)
- ●Psychological impact of genetic findings
- ●Potential for incidental findings
Interfering Factors
- ●Poor RNA quality or degradation
- ●Contamination with genomic DNA
- ●Low RNA yield from sample
- ●Medications affecting gene expression
- ●Recent blood transfusion (if blood sample used)
- ●Sample collection or storage errors
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Eukaryotic mRNA Sequencing and Reference Based Analysis | Whole Exome Sequencing | Whole Genome Sequencing | Targeted Gene Panel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Eukaryotic mRNA Sequencing and Reference Based Analysis | WES examines DNA coding regions, while mRNA sequencing assesses gene expression. WES is better for detecting DNA variants, but mRNA sequencing can reveal functional consequences. | WGS covers the entire genome including non-coding regions, while mRNA sequencing focuses on expressed transcripts. WGS is more comprehensive but more expensive. | Targeted panels analyze specific genes, while mRNA sequencing is unbiased. Panels are faster and cheaper but limited to known genes. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is eukaryotic mRNA sequencing?
How is this test different from DNA sequencing?
What conditions can this test diagnose?
What sample is required?
Is fasting required before the test?
How long does it take to get results?
What is the cost of the test?
Is home sample collection available?
Will my insurance cover this test?
Are there any risks associated with the test?
Can this test detect all genetic disorders?
How should I prepare for the test?
Related Tests
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.
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.