SLC6A14 Gene Obesity Susceptibility Genetic Test in UAE

Executive Summary & Core Metrics

Executive Summary

This advanced genetic screening test analyses the SLC6A14 gene to identify variants associated with increased susceptibility to obesity and related metabolic disorders. The test delivers actionable insights for personalised risk assessment, lifestyle intervention planning, and clinical decision support across endocrinology, hepatology, and nephrology disciplines.

Diagnostic Accuracy: 99.9% analytical sensitivity and specificity via ISO-accredited next-generation sequencing.
Premium Logistics: VIP Mobile Phlebotomy and temperature-controlled cold-chain home collection, available daily from 8 AM to 11 PM.
Clinical Guidance: Mandatory post-test genetic counselling session with pedigree chart analysis of family members.
Insurance Verification: Direct billing confirmation via WhatsApp +971 54 548 8731.

Test Overview & Methodology

The SLC6A14 Gene Obesity Susceptibility test employs next-generation sequencing (NGS) to detect pathogenic and risk-associated variants within the SLC6A14 gene. This gene encodes a sodium- and chloride-dependent neutral and cationic amino acid transporter that significantly influences body weight regulation and energy homeostasis. Identifying these variants enables clinicians to implement targeted preventive strategies and monitor at-risk patients for early metabolic intervention.

Feature	SLC6A14 NGS Test	Standard SNP Genotyping
Precision	>99.9% Analytical Sensitivity and Specificity	Approximately 95% for targeted SNPs
Methodology	Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) – Full Gene Coverage	PCR-Based SNP Array – Limited Loci
Turnaround Time	3 to 4 Weeks	2 to 3 Weeks

Physician Insight & Safety Protocols

"The SLC6A14 genetic susceptibility test provides valuable insight into a patient's inherent risk profile for obesity. However, these genomic findings must always be contextualised within the full clinical picture, including dietary patterns, physical activity levels, and metabolic biomarkers. A positive result does not confirm disease; it indicates elevated predisposition requiring proactive surveillance and lifestyle counselling. Patients should continue all current treatments unless their managing physician explicitly advises otherwise after reviewing the genetic report."

— Lina Osama Zaki Quteineh, Consultant Medical Genetics | DHA Registration ID: 9294403

Advisory and Continued Care Guidance

Medication Continuity and Clinical Oversight

Patients must not alter or discontinue any prescribed medication regimen without direct consultation with their treating physician. Genetic test results indicating obesity susceptibility may inform future preventive strategies but do not warrant immediate therapeutic changes without comprehensive clinical evaluation.

Post-Collected Care: In the event of severe localised swelling, chest pain, or syncope following the blood draw, patients should seek urgent medical attention at the nearest emergency department.

Eligibility and Exclusion Criteria

Contraindications for this Genetic Test

Individuals below 18 years of age without explicit parental or legal guardian consent as mandated by Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 on Medical Liability.
Patients currently undergoing active oncology management for any malignancy requiring acute therapeutic intervention.
Individuals unable to provide informed consent or who decline genetic counselling participation post-testing.

Patient FAQ & Clinical Guidance

1. What is the SLC6A14 gene and how does it relate to obesity susceptibility?

The SLC6A14 gene encodes a membrane transport protein responsible for regulating the cellular uptake of neutral and cationic amino acids. Genetic variants in this gene have been robustly associated with altered energy balance, increased appetite drive, and higher body mass index, thereby elevating the lifetime risk of developing obesity and its metabolic complications.

2. How is the SLC6A14 genetic susceptibility test conducted?

A peripheral whole blood specimen is collected either at your residence through our VIP Mobile Phlebotomy service or at our Dubai Healthcare City facility. The sample undergoes next-generation sequencing (NGS) targeting the complete coding region and splice sites of the SLC6A14 gene. Results are typically available within three to four weeks and are delivered through a secure online portal.

3. What do the results of this genetic test indicate?

A positive result identifies one or more risk-associated alleles that increase the statistical likelihood of developing obesity. This information is intended to guide proactive lifestyle modifications, periodic metabolic monitoring, and informed discussions with healthcare providers. The test does not confirm an inevitable diagnosis of obesity but rather highlights a heightened genetic predisposition that warrants clinical attention.

4. Who should consider taking this SLC6A14 obesity susceptibility test?

This test is appropriate for individuals with a strong family history of obesity, those who have experienced unexplained weight gain despite adequate lifestyle measures, and patients being evaluated for metabolic or bariatric intervention. It may also be relevant for endocrinology, hepatology, and nephrology patients where obesity is a contributing comorbidity.

5. Is genetic counselling provided with the test results?

Yes, every patient receives a mandatory post-test genetic counselling session conducted by a DHA-licensed genetic counsellor. During this session, a detailed pedigree chart of family members affected by weight-related conditions will be reviewed, and a personalised risk management plan will be developed in collaboration with your referring physician.

UAE Regulatory & Data Privacy Adherence

Regulatory Compliance Framework

This diagnostic service operates in full compliance with the UAE's data protection and healthcare regulatory landscape. Patient genomic and clinical data are handled under the following legal instruments:

Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 on Personal Data Protection (PDPL) – Governing the collection, processing, and storage of personal and genetic data with explicit patient consent and data minimisation principles.
Federal Law No. 2 of 2019 Concerning the Use of Information and Communication Technology in Health Fields – Mandating secure electronic health information exchange, encryption standards, and audit trail requirements for all digital medical records.
Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 on Medical Liability – Establishing the legal framework for patient consent, clinical accountability, and professional obligations in genetic testing and counselling.

All genetic test results are transmitted via encrypted channels and stored on secure servers within the UAE jurisdiction. Patients retain the right to access, rectify, or request deletion of their genetic data in accordance with PDPL provisions.

Clinical & Logistical Metadata

Test Name	SLC6A14 Gene Obesity Susceptibility Genetic Test
Price (AED)	2,800 AED
Turnaround Time	3 to 4 Weeks
Sample Type / Matrix	Whole Blood (Peripheral) – VIP Mobile Phlebotomy and temperature-controlled cold-chain home collection available daily from 8 AM to 11 PM.
Methodology Used	Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) – Full Gene Coverage including coding exons and flanking intronic regions
ICD-10-CM Code	Z15.89 – Genetic Susceptibility to Other Disease (Obesity Susceptibility)
LOINC Code	51966-9 – Genetic analysis of SLC6A14 gene
DHA Facility License & Laboratory Address	DHA Facility License No: 1143 \| DNA Labs UAE \| Premises 105, Floor 1, Building 33, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, UAE