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Molecular and Clinical Testing

MyAfroDNA > Molecular and Clinical Testing

Molecular and Clinical Testing

Molecular and Clinical Testing

We collaborate with medical facilities and physicians interested in deploying molecular diagnostics approaches to investigate various diseases. We provide both molecular and blood testing services to bolster the capacity of local health facilities. Additionally, as part of our commitment to supporting collaborative research projects and ensuring specimens are comprehensively phenotyped, we offer blood chemistry and complete blood count analysis.
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Molecular oncology involves the use of genetic information to detect, diagnose, and monitor cancer. By identifying specific genetic mutations or changes in DNA sequences, molecular oncology testing helps in the development of personalized treatment plans for cancer patients. These tests can guide treatment decisions by determining which therapies are likely to be most effective based on the tumor’s molecular profile. Examples of Tests:
    • KRAS Mutation Testing:
KRAS mutations, frequently observed in colorectal, lung, and pancreatic cancers, are pivotal in determining treatment resistance, particularly to EGFR inhibitors, guiding more tailored therapeutic approaches.
    • BRCA1/BRCA2 Testing:
Used to detect inherited mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
    • PD-L1 Expression Testing:
Measures the expression of the PD-L1 protein, helping to determine whether immunotherapy is a suitable treatment for certain cancers like melanoma or lung cancer. Applications: Molecular oncology tests are essential in precision medicine, allowing for treatments that target specific mutations. They are used in cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment selection, making them invaluable for personalized cancer care.
Molecular microbiology involves the detection and identification of pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites) using molecular techniques. These tests focus on the genetic material of microorganisms, offering higher sensitivity and specificity compared to traditional methods like culture or microscopy. Molecular microbiology is pivotal for rapid and accurate diagnosis of infections.

Examples of Tests:
  • PCR for Tuberculosis (TB):
    • Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is used to detect the DNA of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria responsible for tuberculosis, in patient samples.
  • Real-time PCR for Viral Infections: Detects and quantifies viruses such as HIV, Hepatitis B, or C, or SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), offering quick and accurate diagnosis.
  • 16S rRNA Sequencing:
    • Identifies bacterial species by analyzing a highly conserved region of ribosomal RNA, particularly useful for detecting rare or unculturable bacteria.
Applications:
These tests are critical in diagnosing infectious diseases, guiding antimicrobial therapy, and preventing the spread of infectious agents. Molecular microbiology ensures faster diagnosis and treatment, improving patient outcomes.
Gene expression analysis measures the activity of genes within a cell, helping to understand gene regulation, function, and the molecular basis of diseases. This technology allows researchers and clinicians to see which genes are active and how they are influencing biological pathways. It’s particularly useful for studying diseases like cancer, neurological disorders, and immune system dysfunction.

Examples of Tests:
  • Real-time Quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR):
    • Used to quantify gene expression levels in various tissues and cell, to compare differences between groups
  • Microarray Analysis:
    • Measures the expression of thousands of genes simultaneously, identifying patterns that might indicate disease or response to therapy.
Applications:
Gene expression analysis is crucial in understanding disease mechanisms, identifying potential biomarkers, and developing new therapeutics. It’s often used in cancer research, drug development, and personalized medicine.
Genotyping and sequencing are techniques used to analyze an individual’s DNA for variations that may impact health, traits, or disease susceptibility. Genotyping typically looks at known genetic variants, while sequencing reads the entire DNA sequence of a specific region or the whole genome. These tests are vital for understanding genetic contributions to disease and for developing personalized treatment plans.

Examples of Tests:
  • SNP Genotyping:
    • Detects single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), the most common type of genetic variation, which may be associated with diseases like diabetes or cardiovascular disorders.
  • PGx Testing (Pharmacogenomics Testing):
    • Analyzes how an individual’s genetic makeup affects their response to medications. This testing helps identify optimal drug therapies and dosages based on genetic variations, reducing the risk of adverse drug reactions and enhancing treatment efficacy.
Applications:
Genotyping and sequencing help identify genetic predispositions to diseases, inform reproductive decisions, and guide therapeutic choices. These technologies are foundational in the growing field of personalized medicine.
This test identifies specific species or pathogens present in a sample by analyzing genetic markers. Whether used in clinical diagnostics or environmental biology, these tests are highly accurate and can detect a wide range of organisms, from bacteria and viruses to fungi and parasites.

Examples of Tests:
  • DNA Barcoding:
    • Uses a short genetic sequence from a standardized region of the genome to identify species. This is particularly useful for identifying invasive species or pathogens in environmental samples. 16S rRNA Sequencing: Identifies bacterial species by analyzing a highly conserved region of ribosomal RNA, particularly useful for detecting rare or unculturable bacteria.
  • 18S rRNA Sequencing:
    • Focuses on eukaryotic organisms, analyzing a conserved region of the 18S ribosomal RNA gene to identify and classify various eukaryotic species, including fungi and protozoa.
  • Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) Sequencing:
    • Targets the ITS regions of fungal ribosomal RNA genes, commonly used for identifying and classifying fungi in environmental samples, as these regions are highly variable among species.
  • Multiplex PCR for Pathogen Detection:
    • Allows simultaneous detection of multiple pathogens (e.g., bacteria, viruses) in a single sample, commonly used in respiratory infection panels.
Applications:
Species and pathogen identification are crucial in fields like epidemiology, agriculture, and environmental management. Clinically, these tests help diagnose infectious diseases, guide treatment, and monitor disease outbreaks.
This Comprehensive Test offered by MyAfroDNA provides a thorough assessment of various biochemical markers to evaluate a person’s organ function, metabolism, and overall health. Key components of metabolic health, liver function, kidney function, and cardiovascular risk factors are simultaneously evaluated. This panel includes the following key biomarkers:
  • Albumin:
    • A protein made by the liver that helps keep fluid in your bloodstream.
  • Uric Acid (UA):
    • Measures the level of uric acid in the blood, helping to diagnose gout or kidney problems.
  • Urea:
    • Assesses kidney function by measuring the amount of urea nitrogen in the blood.
  • Creatinine:
    • Another important marker of kidney function, indicating how well the kidneys are filtering waste.
  • Total Protein:
    • Measures the total amount of proteins in the blood, indicating nutritional status and liver function.
  • Globulin:
    • A protein that plays a role in immune function, blood clotting, and liver health.
  • Albumin/Globulin Ratio (A/G Ratio):
    • The balance between albumin and globulin, which can help detect liver or kidney disease.
  • Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST):
    • An enzyme found in the liver and heart, high levels may indicate liver or heart damage.
  • Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT):
    • Often elevated in liver diseases and certain conditions like alcohol abuse.
  • Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP):
    • An enzyme related to the liver, bones, and bile ducts; elevated levels may suggest liver or bone issues.
  • Total Bilirubin:
    • A measure of bile pigment, high levels may indicate liver dysfunction.
  • Direct Bilirubin:
    • Measures the direct form of bilirubin, helping to diagnose liver or bile duct problems.
  • Indirect Bilirubin:
    • Reflects the unconjugated form of bilirubin, elevated levels may suggest hemolysis or liver issues.
  • Glucose:
    • A key marker of blood sugar levels, used to diagnose and monitor diabetes.
  • Triglycerides:
    • A type of fat in the blood, high levels may increase the risk of heart disease.
  • Cholesterol:
    • Measures the total amount of cholesterol in the blood.
    • High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL):
      • Known as “good” cholesterol, which helps remove cholesterol from the bloodstream.
    • Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL):
      • Known as “bad” cholesterol, which can build up in arteries and increase the risk of heart disease.

Our reliable paternity and relationship testing service offers accurate results with a quick 7-day turnaround. We ensure confidentiality and precision, helping you get the answers you need with peace of mind.