Test Price
2,800 AED✅ Home Collection Available
GATM Gene (Arginine:Glycine Amidinotransferase [AGAT] Deficiency) Genetic Test in UAE | 2800 AED | DHA Licensed
Executive Summary & Core Metrics
Executive Summary: This advanced laboratory test delivers comprehensive next-generation sequencing (NGS) of the GATM gene for diagnosing arginine:glycine amidinotransferase (AGAT) deficiency—a rare but treatable creatine synthesis disorder—with diagnostic sensitivity reaching 99.9% through ISO 9001:2015 certified processing (Certificate No. INT/EGQ/2509DA/3139) and 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. The service includes VIP mobile phlebotomy with temperature-controlled cold-chain home collection, telephonic post-test genetic counselling, and direct insurance billing support via WhatsApp at +971 54 548 8731.
Test Overview & Methodology
The GATM Gene NGS Test uses targeted next-generation sequencing with full gene coverage and high-depth bioinformatics analysis to detect pathogenic variants responsible for arginine:glycine amidinotransferase (AGAT) deficiency—a treatable neurometabolic disorder affecting creatine biosynthesis. Early genetic confirmation enables prompt initiation of creatine and ornithine supplementation, preventing irreversible neurological damage.
| Feature | Our Test (GATM NGS) | Closest Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Precision | 99.9% analytical sensitivity; variant-level resolution | Biochemical screening (creatine/guanidinoacetate) ± single-gene tests |
| Method | Targeted NGS covering all exons, splice sites and regulatory regions | Metabolite assays ± Sanger sequencing of selected exons |
| Speed | 3–4 weeks with digital report | 1–2 weeks (biochemical); 4–6 weeks if reflex genetic testing needed |
Physician Insight & Safety Protocols
Clinical Note from Lina Osama Zaki Quteineh, Consultant Medical Genetics (DHA Registration ID: 9294403):
"Arginine:glycine amidinotransferase deficiency is a rare but eminently treatable neurometabolic condition. While this NGS test delivers definitive genetic confirmation, the result must always be correlated with biochemical markers and the patient's clinical phenotype. Timely diagnosis allows initiation of creatine and ornithine supplementation, often preventing irreversible neurological damage. I recommend discussing all findings with your treating metabolic specialist to ensure coordinated care."
⚠️ Medication Advisory
Do not discontinue any prescribed medication or supplements without explicit consultation with your physician. This genetic test is a diagnostic tool; treatment adjustments must be guided by a qualified medical practitioner based on integrated clinical and laboratory findings.
🛡️ Exclusion Criteria & Emergency Red Flags
Exclusion Criteria (do NOT collect if):
- Active febrile infection or uncontrolled sepsis
- Blood transfusion within the last 2 weeks
- Recent bone marrow transplantation
- Use of certain anti-metabolites or creatine supplements – consult genetic counsellor for washout guidance
🚨 Seek Emergency Care if:
- Rapid developmental regression or loss of motor skills
- New-onset seizures, dystonia, or choreoathetosis
- Severe hypotonia with feeding difficulties
- Unexplained lethargy or altered consciousness
These signs may indicate a metabolic crisis and require immediate paediatric emergency evaluation. All clinical procedures adhere to Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 on Medical Liability for patient safety and informed consent.
Patient FAQ & Clinical Guidance
1. What exactly does the GATM NGS test detect?
The GATM NGS test sequences the full coding region, splice sites and regulatory regions of the GATM gene to identify pathogenic variants causing arginine:glycine amidinotransferase (AGAT) deficiency. This confirms the diagnosis of this treatable creatine synthesis disorder, enabling targeted supplementation therapy and informed family counselling.
2. Why choose this test in the UAE over standard biochemical screening?
This UAE-based test provides DHA-licensed, ISO-certified NGS accuracy with VIP mobile phlebotomy for home collection, a 3–4 week turnaround time, and mandatory post-test genetic guidance from a board-certified Consultant Medical Geneticist. The service operates in full compliance with Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 on Personal Data Protection (PDPL) and Federal Law No. 2 of 2019 concerning health ICT use.
3. How should I prepare for the test and what happens next?
No fasting is required. You simply provide a peripheral whole blood sample collected by our mobile phlebotomy team using temperature-controlled cold-chain logistics. Avoid recent blood transfusions and certain supplements as advised during booking. Results are interpreted by a Consultant Medical Genetics specialist and discussed with you via telephonic consultation to guide clinical decision-making.
4. Is the GATM NGS test covered by health insurance in the UAE?
Coverage varies by insurance provider and policy. Our team supports direct insurance billing inquiries via WhatsApp at +971 54 548 8731. We recommend verifying coverage with your insurer using the DHA facility license number 1143 and the relevant ICD-10-CM code E72.8 prior to booking.
5. Can this test be performed during pregnancy?
Yes, with appropriate counselling. The test can be performed on a maternal blood sample for carrier screening or, if clinically indicated, through invasive prenatal diagnosis following detailed genetic counselling. Please consult your obstetrician and genetic counsellor to determine the most appropriate approach for your situation.
UAE Regulatory & Data Privacy Adherence
🔒 Regulatory Compliance & Trust Framework
DNA Labs UAE operates under the regulatory oversight of the Dubai Health Authority (DHA Facility License Number: 1143). All genetic testing services strictly adhere to the following UAE legislative frameworks:
- Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 on Personal Data Protection (PDPL) – governing the collection, processing and storage of your genetic and personal health data with explicit consent and purpose limitation
- Federal Law No. 2 of 2019 Concerning the Use of Information and Communication Technology in Health Fields – regulating the secure handling of electronic health records and telemedicine consultations
- Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 on Medical Liability – ensuring clinical safety standards, informed consent protocols and professional accountability throughout the diagnostic pathway
Your genetic data is encrypted, access-controlled and retained only for the clinically necessary period. You retain the right to access, rectify or request deletion of your data in accordance with PDPL provisions.
Clinical & Logistical Metadata
| Test Name | GATM Gene (Arginine:Glycine Amidinotransferase [AGAT] Deficiency) Genetic Test – NGS |
| Price (AED) | 2,800 AED |
| Turnaround Time | 3–4 weeks |
| Sample Type / Matrix | Peripheral whole blood (3–5 mL EDTA tube) – VIP Mobile Phlebotomy & Temperature-Controlled Cold-Chain Home Collection available daily from 8 AM to 11 PM |
| Methodology Used | Targeted Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) – full gene coverage including exons, splice sites and regulatory regions |
| ICD-10-CM Code | E72.8 |
| LOINC Code | 50398-7 |
| DHA Facility License & Laboratory Address | DHA Facility License Number: 1143 | Premises 105, Floor 1, Building 33, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, UAE – DNA Labs UAE |
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