Test Price
4,000 AED✅ Home Collection Available
Shotgun Metagenome Sequencing and Analysis in UAE | 4000 AED | DHA Licensed Laboratory
Executive Summary & Core Metrics
Clinical Trust & Patient Assurance – Our facility is committed to delivering the highest standards of accuracy and compliance in genomic diagnostics.
Shotgun Metagenome Sequencing is a culture-independent, hypothesis-free genomic test that sequences all microbial DNA directly from a clinical sample, identifying bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites in a single analytical run. With 99.9% diagnostic sensitivity via ISO-accredited processing (ISO 9001:2015 Cert: INT/EGQ/2509DA/3139), this assay reveals the complete microbial community structure, functional gene potential, and antimicrobial resistance markers. Premium home collection is available daily from 8 AM to 11 PM via VIP Mobile Phlebotomy and temperature-controlled cold-chain transport. Complimentary telephonic post-test guidance with specialist interpretation is included, and direct insurance billing verification is available via WhatsApp at +971 54 548 8731.
Test Overview & Methodology
Shotgun metagenome sequencing provides comprehensive microbial profiling by sequencing all DNA fragments present in a clinical specimen without prior culture or amplification bias. Unlike targeted amplicon approaches, it delivers species-level and strain-level resolution across the entire microbial kingdom — bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites — in a single workflow. The methodology employs Illumina NovaSeq instrumentation generating 10–20 million paired-end reads per sample, followed by multi-database bioinformatics annotation against curated microbial genomes, virulence factor databases, and antimicrobial resistance gene repositories. This makes the test indispensable for oncology, rheumatology, and complex infectious disease research where standard cultures remain negative or inconclusive.
| Feature | Shotgun Metagenome Sequencing | 16S rRNA Amplicon Sequencing |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | Species-level & strain-level, full genomes | Genus-level, bacteria only |
| Method | Illumina NovaSeq, advanced bioinformatics | Amplicon sequencing (V3-V4 hypervariable region) |
| Turnaround Time | 8 weeks (comprehensive analysis with manual expert review) | 4–6 weeks |
| Functional Annotation | Full gene catalog, virulence factors, AMR genes | Taxonomic profiling only |
Physician Insight & Safety Protocols
“Shotgun metagenomics provides an unparalleled depth of microbial community data, but its output remains inherently interpretive. Results must always be integrated with clinical presentation, laboratory biomarkers, and radiographic findings. Over-reliance on sequencing data without clinical context can lead to therapeutic misdirection.”
— Lina Osama Zaki Quteineh, Consultant Medical Genetics, DHA Registration ID: 9294403
Advisory Notice
Do not alter or discontinue any prescribed antibiotic, immunosuppressant, or biologic therapy without direct consultation with your treating physician. This test provides diagnostic insight and must not replace clinical judgment or emergency medical care.
Exclusion Criteria & Emergency Red Flags
- Specimen collected less than 2 weeks after completion of an antibiotic or antifungal course may yield suppressed DNA and false-negative results.
- Insufficient extracted DNA concentration (< 1 ng/µL) or heavily degraded nucleic acid samples are not suitable for analysis.
- Emergency signs: Sepsis, septic shock, or rapid clinical deterioration — immediate hospital care is required; this assay is not intended for acute management decisions.
- Severe immunocompromised status with unclear infectious source — results may be confounded by background microbial DNA and require cautious specialist interpretation.
Patient FAQ & Clinical Guidance
1. What exactly does shotgun metagenome sequencing detect?
Shotgun metagenome sequencing is a culture-free DNA analysis that identifies all microorganisms in a specimen comprehensively. Unlike traditional culture techniques, it can uncover fastidious, anaerobic, or unculturable pathogens. The assay also profiles antimicrobial resistance genes and virulence factors, aiding in precise treatment decisions for recurrent infections, cancer-related microbiome dysbiosis, or autoimmune flares. All clinical correlations must be made by your specialist physician.
2. How long does it take to get results, and why does the process require 8 weeks?
The 8‑week turnaround time ensures rigorous quality control, deep sequencing coverage, and multi‑database bioinformatics annotation. After DNA extraction, libraries are prepared, sequenced to 10–20 million reads per sample, and aligned against curated microbial genome databases. Manual expert review of clinically significant findings adds to the precision and reliability of the final report. Expedited processing is not feasible without compromising analytical accuracy.
3. Is this test covered by insurance in the UAE, and how can I verify my coverage?
Direct insurance billing is supported; WhatsApp +971 54 548 8731 to verify your coverage instantly. We collaborate with major UAE insurers and can submit pre‑approval requests on your behalf. The 4000 AED fee includes home collection, cold‑chain logistics, and a post‑test teleconsultation. A valid Emirates ID and a physician referral are required to proceed with the service.
UAE Regulatory & Data Privacy Adherence
Compliance Framework: All diagnostic data processing and storage operations are conducted in full compliance with Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 on Personal Data Protection (PDPL) and Federal Law No. 2 of 2019 Concerning the Use of Information and Communication Technology in Health Fields. Clinical testing safety and patient consent procedures adhere to Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 on Medical Liability. All genomic sequence data is processed within HMG-secured servers with strict access controls and encryption at rest and in transit.
Accreditation: ISO 9001:2015 (Cert: INT/EGQ/2509DA/3139). DHA Facility License Number: 1143.
Clinical & Logistical Metadata
| Test Name | Shotgun Metagenome Sequencing and Analysis |
| Price (AED) | 4,000 |
| Turnaround Time | 8 Weeks (Comprehensive Analysis with Expert Review) |
| Sample Type / Matrix | Whole Blood (DNA Extract) — VIP Mobile Phlebotomy & Temperature-Controlled Cold-Chain Home Collection available daily from 8 AM to 11 PM |
| Methodology Used | Shotgun Metagenome Sequencing (Illumina NovaSeq, Multi-Database Bioinformatics Annotation) |
| ICD-10-CM Code | Z11.9, Z13.79, Z15.89 |
| LOINC Code | 92982-4 |
| DHA Facility License & Laboratory Address | DHA Facility License Number: 1143 — Premises 105, Floor 1, Building 33, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, UAE |
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All reports reviewed by DHA-Certified physicians