The different technologies behind GI tests can lend different strengths to their respective reports.
Microscopy
Microscopy testing is the oldest and simplest type of gut microbiome test. It involves examining a stool sample under a microscope to identify and count the different types of bacteria. However, microscopy is not very sensitive and can only identify a limited number of bacteria, fungi, and parasites. It is also dependent on the aptitude of the laboratory technician performing the assessment which can lead to varying results and has a high probability to misidentify problematic bacteria, fungi, and parasites.
PCR (polymerase chain reaction)
PCR testing is a highly sensitive and specific type of gut microbiome test. It involves amplifying DNA from a stool sample, which allows for the identification of a wider range of markers within stool samples.
PCR is more quantitative than microscopy, as it also measures the abundance of the different markers instead of a simple binary present/not present response.
Culture
Culture testing is a comprehensive type of gut microbiome test. It involves growing bacteria from a stool sample in a laboratory. This allows for the identification of the bacteria that are present in the stool sample. Culture testing is the most time-consuming and expensive type of test.
Metagenomic Sequencing
Metagenomic sequencing analyzes the genetic material of entire microbial communities in a stool sample. This technique, known as "shotgun" sequencing, randomly and unbiasedly sequences all genetic material, covering over 28,000 microbial species. Unlike targeted approaches, it offers a comprehensive view, revealing previously unknown or unculturable microorganisms. From a simple stool sample, it provides detailed information on the microbiome and biochemical markers related to digestion, inflammation, and intestinal permeability.
Most GI Microbiome profiles utilize multiple testing types to provide testing with a wide range of relevant markers. It is important to look for GI testing profiles that utilize PCR testing for the majority of its markers as this will provide test results that are more comprehensive with better accuracy allowing you to create a treatment protocol that is better aligned to patient needs.
Test |
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
|
Microscopy |
Simple, inexpensive, and quick | Not very sensitive or specific |
| PCR | Fast, sensitive, specific, and quantitative | Requires expensive technology |
| Culture | Comprehensive | Expensive and time-consuming |
| Metagenomic Sequencing | Detailed and Comprehensive | Requires expensive technology |
Four GI Microbiome profiles that focus largely on PCR testing are the
To learn more about the profiles and the types of Bacteria, fungi, and Parasites tested you can visit https://www.usbiotek.com/gi-microbiome-testing