Molecular Diagnostics & Pathogen Surveillance
Detect infectious agents rapidly using metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing (mNGS). We track antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiles and outbreaks to facilitate evidence-based, targeted antimicrobial treatments.
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Overview
In an era of emerging infectious diseases and increasing drug resistance, rapid and accurate pathogen detection is critical. Our service employs metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing (mNGS) to identify infectious agents directly from clinical samples without the need for traditional cultures. We provide comprehensive tracking of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiles and real-time outbreak surveillance to facilitate evidence-based, targeted antimicrobial treatments. This molecular approach ensures that even "unculturable" or rare pathogens are identified swiftly, supporting effective public health responses and individual patient care.
Key Features
> Metagenomic NGS (mNGS): Hypothesis-free detection of viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites in a single test.
> AMR Profiling: Identifying genetic markers of resistance to ensure the correct antibiotic or antiviral is prescribed.
> Outbreak Tracking: Genomic fingerprinting of pathogens to map the transmission of infectious diseases.
> Rapid Turnaround: Optimized workflows for critical care settings where every hour counts.
> Environmental Surveillance: Monitoring wastewater or air samples for early warning signs of community outbreaks.
Application & Demo
During a localized outbreak of undiagnosed respiratory illness, our lab utilized mNGS to analyze patient nasopharyngeal swabs. Within 48 hours, we identified a rare strain of adenovirus that had escaped detection by standard PCR panels. Furthermore, our AMR analysis confirmed the absence of specific resistance genes, allowing clinicians to successfully treat the patients with narrow-spectrum antivirals, preventing a wider hospital-acquired infection (HAI) event.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why use mNGS instead of a standard PCR test?
PCR requires you to know what you are looking for. mNGS looks at everything in the sample, identifying pathogens you might not have suspected.
What is Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)?
It is the ability of a microorganism to resist the effects of a drug that once could treat it.
Is this service useful for hospital infection control?
Absolutely. It is a vital tool for identifying the source and spread of infections within a healthcare facility.
Can it detect new, unknown viruses?
Yes, metagenomics is one of the primary methods used to discover and characterize novel emerging viruses.