Test Price
2,800 AED✅ Home Collection Available
MT‑TL1 Gene MELAS Syndrome Genetic Test in UAE | 2800 AED | DHA Licensed Molecular Diagnostics
Executive Summary & Core Metrics
Clinical Executive Summary
Definitive molecular diagnosis for Mitochondrial Encephalomyopathy, Lactic Acidosis, and Stroke‑like episodes (MELAS) via full MT‑TL1 gene sequencing. The test delivers 99.9% diagnostic sensitivity under ISO 9001:2015 certified processing. Pre‑ and post‑test support includes expert interpretation and personalised clinical guidance.
Test Overview & Methodology
This next‑generation sequencing (NGS) assay provides comprehensive analysis of the entire mitochondrial MT‑TL1 gene, the most common causative locus for MELAS syndrome. The test examines coding regions, intronic boundaries, and regulatory elements using DNA extracted from a standard peripheral blood sample. This replaces fragmented conventional testing with a unified diagnostic approach aligned with DHA quality and safety requirements for the UAE population.
| Feature | MT‑TL1 NGS Test (DNA Labs UAE) | Closest Alternative (Targeted Panel) |
|---|---|---|
| Precision | Full‑gene sequencing with copy number detection; >99.9% analytical sensitivity & specificity | Selected exons only; may miss deep intronic or regulatory variants |
| Method | Next‑Generation Sequencing (NGS) – Illumina® platform, validated per ISO 9001:2015 | Sanger sequencing or MLPA; lower resolution |
| Reporting Speed | 3‑4 Weeks with interim verbal update on request | 4‑6 Weeks, limited pre‑test counselling |
Physician Insight & Safety Protocols
“A positive MT‑TL1 result must be correlated with clinical and biochemical findings; a negative result does not exclude other mitochondrial disorders. I advise that all results be interpreted within the context of a complete family history and, where appropriate, a muscle biopsy.”
— Lina Osama Zaki Quteineh, Consultant Medical Genetics | DHA Registration ID: 9294403
Clinical Advisory
Safety & Exclusion Criteria
- This test is not a replacement for emergency neurological evaluation. Seek immediate care for acute stroke‑like symptoms or lactic acidosis.
- Paediatric sampling (under 18 years) requires parental/guardian consent as per Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 on Medical Liability.
- Results are probabilistic; do not discontinue prescribed medications without direct consultation with the ordering physician.
- ER Red Flags: Sudden vision loss, intractable seizures, severe headache with vomiting – proceed to the nearest emergency department.
Medication Advisory
Medication Warning: Do not discontinue prescribed medication without consulting your doctor.
Patient FAQ & Clinical Guidance
1. What does the MT‑TL1 gene test specifically detect?
This test screens the entire mitochondrial MT‑TL1 gene for pathogenic variants that cause MELAS syndrome, including point mutations, small insertions/deletions, and copy number changes across all coding and regulatory regions.
2. How should I prepare for the home blood collection?
No fasting is required. Continue all prescribed medications unless explicitly instructed otherwise. Our cold‑chain phlebotomy team will collect a standard blood sample or a few drops on an FTA card – the process takes less than 10 minutes.
3. Is this test suitable for children and asymptomatic family members?
Yes, the test can be ordered for children under 18 with appropriate parental consent and pre‑test genetic counselling. Predictive testing in asymptomatic minors follows strict UAE protocols and must be mediated by a clinical geneticist.
4. What is the turnaround time for results?
Results are typically available within 3 to 4 weeks from sample receipt. An interim verbal update may be provided upon request during the analysis period.
UAE Regulatory & Data Privacy Adherence
Data Protection & Compliance Framework
All genetic and personal health data are processed in strict accordance with:
- Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 on Personal Data Protection (PDPL) – Ensuring lawful collection, processing, and storage of personal genetic information.
- Federal Law No. 2 of 2019 Concerning the Use of Information and Communication Technology in Health Fields – Governing the secure handling of health data through digital systems.
- Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 on Medical Liability – Establishing patient consent requirements and clinical safety standards for diagnostic procedures.
Clinical & Logistical Metadata
| Test Name | MT‑TL1 Gene MELAS Syndrome Genetic Test (Full Gene Sequencing) |
| Price (AED) | 2,800 AED (Inclusive of Genetic Counselling) |
| Turnaround Time | 3‑4 Weeks |
| Sample Type / Matrix | Peripheral Whole Blood (3‑5 mL in EDTA tube) or Dried Blood Spot (FTA card) |
| Methodology Used | Next‑Generation Sequencing (NGS) – Illumina® Platform, ISO 9001:2015 Certified |
| ICD-10-CM Code | G31.81, E88.49, Z14.8 |
| LOINC Code | 81247‑7 – MT‑TL1 gene mutations found [Presence] in Blood or Tissue by Molecular genetics method |
| DHA Facility License & Address | License No. 1143 | Premises 105, Floor 1, Building 33, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, UAE | DNA Labs UAE |
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