Molecular Diagnosis of Intestinal Dysbiosis
Molecular diagnosis of dysbiosis is a modern, highly accurate method for studying the composition of intestinal microbiota based on the analysis of genetic material of microorganisms. This approach allows detection and quantitative assessment of bacteria and other microorganisms, including those that do not grow under culture conditions.
- Main molecular diagnostic methods:
- PCR (polymerase chain reaction) — detection of DNA of specific pathogenic or conditionally pathogenic microorganisms. Allows identification of low quantities of parasitic, bacterial, or fungal pathogens.
- 16S rRNA sequencing — a method based on sequencing the 16S ribosomal RNA gene, unique to bacteria. This method determines microbiota composition at genus and species level, including hard-to-culture microorganisms.
- Metagenomic analysis — advanced sequencing of the entire DNA community in the sample with subsequent bioinformatic analysis, providing a complete picture of intestinal microbiocenosis, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms.
- Advantages of molecular diagnosis:
- High sensitivity and specificity enabling detection of even low levels of microorganisms.
- Ability to identify uncultivable and rare microbial species.
- Shorter turnaround time compared to culture-based methods.
- Comprehensive characterization of microflora composition, including beneficial, conditionally pathogenic, and pathogenic organisms.
- Assessment of microbiota imbalance at the molecular level facilitates accurate dysbiosis diagnosis and therapy monitoring.
- Sample for analysis:
A fresh stool sample is usually used, collected in a sterile container and delivered to the laboratory as soon as possible to preserve DNA quality.
- Indications for testing:
- Suspected dysbiosis with symptoms of digestive disorders, chronic intestinal inflammation, and other gastrointestinal diseases.
- Monitoring microbiota composition during and after prolonged antibiotic treatment.
- Assessing effectiveness of microbiota correction with probiotics and prebiotics.
- Studying microbiota in complex diseases and immune disorders.
- Features of result interpretation:
Molecular results allow identification of changes in the ratio and abundance of key bacterial groups (bifidobacteria, lactobacilli, clostridia, Escherichia coli, etc.), determination of imbalance, and detection of potentially pathogenic microorganisms contributing to inflammation and intestinal dysfunction.
- Conclusion:
Molecular diagnosis of dysbiosis provides a deep and comprehensive study of intestinal microbiota, contributing to more accurate diagnosis and personalized therapy selection, improving treatment outcomes and prevention of gastrointestinal diseases.