MicrobiomIX combines whole-genome metagenomic (shotgun) sequencing with targeted qPCR and immunoassays. The metagenomic component maps organisms at the species level across bacteria, fungi, archaea, parasites, and viruses. The targeted qPCR and immunoassay components measure a defined set of functional and digestive markers including calprotectin, secretory IgA, zonulin, and short-chain fatty acids.
Standard PCR-based gut tests look for specific organisms that they have been programmed to find. Metagenomic sequencing takes a broader approach, capturing the full spectrum of what is present in the sample. This means it can identify rare species, unexpected organisms, and patterns that targeted panels would miss. Combined with targeted functional markers, the result is a detailed map of your gut ecosystem including diversity scores, relative abundances, and digestive function markers.
This level of detail is most useful when working with a practitioner on persistent or complex gut concerns where previous testing has not provided enough information. The volume and complexity of data in a metagenomic report makes practitioner interpretation particularly important. Your practitioner will identify which findings are clinically relevant to your symptoms and guide any dietary, supplement, or lifestyle adjustments.
The test is collected at home using a stool kit posted to you. Follow the storage and return instructions carefully, as sample integrity directly affects sequencing quality.
This test is for people working with a practitioner on gut health. It is well suited to complex or persistent gut concerns where a thorough microbiome picture is valuable, or where previous standard tests have not provided sufficient information. The metagenomic approach is particularly useful for identifying dysbiosis patterns, functional capacity, and organisms that targeted PCR panels would miss.
