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MT-CO3 Gene Mitochondrial complex IV deficiency NGS Genetic Test

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MT-CO3 Gene Mitochondrial complex IV deficiency NGS Genetic Test

Short Name: MT-CO3 Gene NGS Test

Also known as: Cytochrome c Oxidase Deficiency, COX Deficiency, MT-CO3 Related Mitochondrial Disorder, Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency NGS Test, Cytochrome c Oxidase Subunit III Deficiency Test

MT-CO3 Gene Mitochondrial complex IV deficiency NGS Genetic Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹20,000. Uses Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), Sanger Confirmation (if required), Bioinformatics Pipeline Analysis on Blood or Extracted DNA or One drop Blood on FTA Card samples. Results in Results are typically available within 3 to 4 weeks from the date of sample receipt at the laboratory. Reports are delivered digitally via the Online Portal, Email, and WhatsApp. Urgent processing may be available upon request — contact DNA Labs India for details.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

NGS Genetic TestUnisexAll Ages🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

The purpose of the MT-CO3 Gene Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency NGS Genetic Test is to identify pathogenic or likely pathogenic mutations in the MT-CO3 gene that cause Cytochrome c Oxidase (Complex IV) deficiency. This test aids in confirming a clinical diagnosis, differentiating Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency from other mitochondrial and metabolic disorders, guiding treatment and management decisions, enabling carrier testing for family members, supporting genetic counseling and reproductive planning, and contributing to a better understanding of the patient's prognosis. It is particularly indicated for patients with clinical features suggestive of a mitochondrial disorder including encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, progressive neurological decline, or unexplained multisystem disease.

Test Code
1728
CPT Code
81460
ICD Code
G71.3
Price
₹20,000
Sample Type
Blood or Extracted DNA or One drop Blood on FTA Card
Result Time
Results are typically available within 3 to 4 weeks from the date of sample receipt at the laboratory. Reports are delivered digitally via the Online Portal, Email, and WhatsApp. Urgent processing may be available upon request — contact DNA Labs India for details.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), Sanger Confirmation (if required), Bioinformatics Pipeline Analysis
Step 1

Sample Collection

A pre-test genetic counseling session is required to document the clinical history of the patient, draw a pedigree chart of family members affected with Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency, discuss the implications of testing, and obtain informed consent. Share detailed clinical and family history with the genetic counselor.

Method: Venipuncture or FTA Card Spot

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A standard venipuncture is performed to collect 3-5 mL of blood in an EDTA (Lavender top) tube. Alternatively, one drop of blood may be applied to an FTA card. The procedure is quick and minimally invasive.

Step 3

Report Delivery

Apply gentle pressure to the venipuncture site with a cotton ball or gauze. The sample is labeled correctly with patient details and test name. Resume normal activities. The sample is transported at ambient room temperature to the laboratory for processing.

Timeline: Results are typically available within 3 to 4 weeks from the date of sample receipt at the laboratory. Reports are delivered digitally via the Online Portal, Email, and WhatsApp. Urgent processing may be available upon request — contact DNA Labs India for details.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:A pre-test genetic counseling session is mandatory. The counselor will document the patient's clinical history, draw a pedigree chart of family members affected with Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency or related mitochondrial disorders, explain the purpose and implications of the test, and obtain written informed consent. No fasting is required. Share all relevant medical records and previous test results with the genetic counselor.
2
During the Test:A blood sample (3-5 mL) is collected via standard venipuncture into an EDTA Lavender-top tube. Alternatively, a single drop of blood may be applied to an FTA card. The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and typically takes less than 5 minutes. Free home sample collection is available for online bookings across India.
3
After the Test:Apply gentle pressure to the venipuncture site. No special post-collection care is needed. Resume normal activities immediately. The sample is transported to the DNA Labs India laboratory at ambient room temperature. Results will be available in 3 to 4 weeks and delivered via Online Portal, Email, or WhatsApp. A post-test genetic counseling session is recommended to discuss results.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The purpose of the MT-CO3 Gene Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency NGS Genetic Test is to identify pathogenic or likely pathogenic mutations in the MT-CO3 gene that cause Cytochrome c Oxidase (Complex IV) deficiency. This test aids in confirming a clinical diagnosis, differentiating Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency from other mitochondrial and metabolic disorders, guiding treatment and management decisions, enabling carrier testing for family members, supporting genetic counseling and reproductive planning, and contributing to a better understanding of the patient's prognosis. It is particularly indicated for patients with clinical features suggestive of a mitochondrial disorder including encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, progressive neurological decline, or unexplained multisystem disease.

How to Prepare

  • Schedule a genetic counseling session before sample collection to discuss test implications and provide informed consent.
  • No fasting is required prior to sample collection.
  • Blood sample (3-5 mL) will be collected via venipuncture in an EDTA Lavender-top tube.
  • Alternatively, one drop of blood can be applied directly onto an FTA card.
  • Ensure the sample is correctly labeled with patient name, date of collection, and test name.
  • Transport the sample at ambient room temperature to the laboratory.
  • Free home sample collection is available across India for online bookings.

Doctor's Notes

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

"As a neurologist, I frequently encounter patients with undiagnosed mitochondrial disorders presenting with complex neurological symptoms such as seizures, encephalopathy, progressive muscle weakness, and developmental regression. The MT-CO3 Gene NGS Genetic Test is an invaluable diagnostic tool that enables a definitive molecular diagnosis of Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency. Early identification of pathogenic variants in the MT-CO3 gene allows for targeted clinical management, appropriate anticipatory guidance, personalized treatment strategies, and informed genetic counseling for affected families. I strongly recommend this test for any patient presenting with unexplained encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, or progressive neurological decline where a mitochondrial etiology is suspected."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeBlood or Extracted DNA or One drop Blood on FTA Card
Sample Volume3-5 mL whole blood
ContainerEDTA Tube (Lavender Top) or FTA Card
Collection MethodVenipuncture or FTA Card Spot

Sample Stability

Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Hemolyzed blood sample
  • Insufficient sample volume (less than 2 mL whole blood)
  • Improperly labeled or unlabeled sample
  • Sample received without signed informed consent
  • Contaminated or compromised FTA card
  • Sample collected in incorrect tube type (non-EDTA)

Understanding Your Results

The results of the MT-CO3 Gene Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency NGS Genetic Test should be interpreted by a qualified clinical geneticist or neurologist in conjunction with the patient's clinical presentation, family history, and other laboratory and imaging findings. Genetic counseling is recommended both before and after testing to ensure patients and families understand the implications of the results.
📊

Pathogenic Variant Detected

A known disease-causing mutation in the MT-CO3 gene has been identified. This confirms the genetic basis of Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency. Correlation with clinical symptoms is recommended. Genetic counseling, family screening, and personalized management strategies should be discussed with the patient and family.

📊

Likely Pathogenic Variant Detected

A variant that is likely to cause disease has been identified in the MT-CO3 gene. Clinical correlation and family segregation studies are recommended for further confirmation. Genetic counseling is advised to discuss implications and recurrence risk.

📊

Variant of Uncertain Significance (VUS)

A genetic variant has been identified, but there is currently insufficient evidence to determine whether it is pathogenic or benign. This result alone cannot confirm or rule out a diagnosis. Additional testing, family studies, and clinical correlation are recommended. Periodic reclassification of VUS may occur as more data becomes available.

📊

Likely Benign Variant

The variant identified is unlikely to be associated with Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency. No specific clinical action is typically required based on this finding. Clinical evaluation for other causes of symptoms should continue if warranted.

📊

No Pathogenic Variant Detected

No known pathogenic or likely pathogenic mutations were identified in the MT-CO3 gene. This does not completely rule out Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency, as mutations may exist in other genes involved in Complex IV function or assembly, or may be in regulatory regions not covered by this test. Further clinical and genetic evaluation may be warranted.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult your doctor or genetic counselor if you or a family member experiences unexplained muscle weakness, exercise intolerance, developmental delays or regression, sensorineural hearing loss, vision problems or optic atrophy, recurrent seizures, lactic acidosis, or signs of multi-organ dysfunction involving the heart, liver, kidneys, or brain. A positive family history of mitochondrial disorders or unexplained infant/childhood deaths warrants genetic evaluation. Early diagnosis can significantly improve management and outcomes.

Limitations

  • This test specifically analyzes the MT-CO3 gene only; mutations in other mitochondrial or nuclear genes are not covered
  • Large mitochondrial DNA deletions or rearrangements may not be fully detected by targeted NGS
  • Variants of Uncertain Significance (VUS) may be identified and require further investigation
  • Low-level heteroplasmy below approximately 5% may not be reliably detected
  • Nuclear DNA mutations affecting mitochondrial Complex IV function (e.g., in assembly factors) are not assessed by this test
  • Results should always be interpreted in the context of clinical findings and family history by a qualified geneticist or neurologist

Risks & Considerations

  • Minor bruising or discomfort at the venipuncture site, which typically resolves within a few hours
  • Minimal risk of infection at the blood draw site (standard aseptic technique is followed)
  • Psychological or emotional impact of receiving genetic test results, particularly positive results
  • Identification of Variants of Uncertain Significance (VUS) may cause anxiety and require additional follow-up testing
  • Risk of incidental findings related to mitochondrial DNA variants not directly associated with Complex IV deficiency

Interfering Factors

  • Recent blood transfusion (within the past 3 months) may introduce donor DNA and affect results
  • Prior bone marrow or stem cell transplant may alter the DNA profile
  • Sample contamination during collection, transport, or processing
  • Degraded DNA due to improper sample storage or handling
  • Very low heteroplasmy levels below the detection threshold of NGS

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the MT-CO3 Gene Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency NGS Genetic Test?
The MT-CO3 Gene Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency NGS Genetic Test is a next-generation sequencing-based genetic test that analyzes the MT-CO3 gene in mitochondrial DNA for mutations causing Cytochrome c Oxidase (Complex IV) deficiency. This enzyme deficiency impairs the cell's ability to produce energy (ATP), leading to a range of neurological and systemic symptoms. The test provides a definitive molecular diagnosis to guide clinical management and genetic counseling.
What are the symptoms of Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency?
Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the mutation and affected tissues. Common symptoms include muscle weakness, exercise intolerance, developmental delays, sensorineural hearing loss, vision problems, optic atrophy, seizures, and lactic acidosis. In severe cases, the disorder may affect the heart (cardiomyopathy), liver (hepatopathy), kidneys, and brain (encephalopathy). Symptoms can present at any age, from infancy to adulthood.
What sample type is required for this genetic test?
The test can be performed on a blood sample (3-5 mL collected in an EDTA Lavender-top tube via venipuncture), extracted DNA, or one drop of blood applied to an FTA card. Free home sample collection is available across India for online bookings.
Is genetic counseling required before taking this test?
Yes, a pre-test genetic counseling session is mandatory before undergoing the MT-CO3 Gene NGS Genetic Test. During this session, the genetic counselor will document the patient's clinical history, draw a pedigree chart of affected family members, discuss the implications of testing, explain possible outcomes, and obtain informed consent. Post-test genetic counseling is also recommended to help interpret the results.
How long does it take to get the results of this test?
Results are typically available within 3 to 4 weeks from the date of sample receipt at the DNA Labs India laboratory. Reports are delivered digitally via the Online Portal, Email, and WhatsApp. You will be notified when your report is ready.
What is the cost of the MT-CO3 Gene NGS Genetic Test?
The cost of the MT-CO3 Gene Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency NGS Genetic Test at DNA Labs India is INR 20,000. This price includes NGS sequencing, bioinformatics analysis, genetic counseling, and free home sample collection across India. No hidden charges apply.
What does a positive result (pathogenic variant detected) mean?
A positive result means that a known disease-causing mutation has been identified in the MT-CO3 gene, confirming the genetic basis of Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency. This allows for a definitive diagnosis, targeted clinical management, appropriate family screening, carrier testing, and informed reproductive planning. Genetic counseling is strongly recommended to discuss the full implications of a positive result.
What does a negative result (no pathogenic variant detected) mean?
A negative result means no known pathogenic or likely pathogenic mutations were found in the MT-CO3 gene. However, this does not completely rule out Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency, as mutations may exist in other genes involved in Complex IV function or assembly, or in regions not covered by this specific test. Your doctor may recommend additional testing, including whole mitochondrial genome sequencing.
Is this test available for children and infants?
Yes, the MT-CO3 Gene NGS Genetic Test can be performed on patients of all ages, including children and infants. Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency often presents in early childhood, and early genetic diagnosis is crucial for timely intervention and management. A small blood sample or FTA card spot is sufficient for testing in pediatric patients.
Can this test be done during pregnancy?
This test analyzes the mother's or child's DNA from a blood sample and is not a prenatal diagnostic test. If there is a known family history of MT-CO3 mutations, prenatal genetic testing options such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis may be discussed with your genetic counselor and obstetrician to evaluate the fetus.
Is home sample collection available for this test?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for the MT-CO3 Gene Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency NGS Genetic Test across major cities in India. Simply book the test online, and a trained phlebotomist will visit your location to collect the blood sample at your convenience. This service is available in over 200 cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Pune, and many more.
How accurate is the NGS Genetic Test for MT-CO3?
The NGS Genetic Test offered by DNA Labs India is highly accurate and reliable, with sequencing depth of at least 100x coverage for the MT-CO3 gene. The test uses validated bioinformatics pipelines and follows ACMG/AMP guidelines for variant classification. Sanger sequencing confirmation is performed when required. However, no genetic test can guarantee 100% detection of all possible mutations, and results should always be interpreted by a qualified geneticist or neurologist in the context of clinical findings.
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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