MedGenome has introduced MetaSeq, a cutting-edge metagenomic next-generation sequencing (NGS) test that identifies more than 1,400 clinically relevant pathogens including bacteria, fungi, parasites, and DNA viruses from a single blood sample. Powered by Noscendo’s DISQVER® platform and CE-IVD validated, MetaSeq analyzes microbial cell-free DNA (cfDNA) to overcome limitations of traditional blood cultures, delivering results in about five days and supporting earlier, more targeted treatment for bloodstream infections (BSIs) and other invasive conditions.
Glimpse:
MetaSeq, a culture-free cfDNA metagenomic NGS test, enables unbiased detection of over 1,400 pathogens directly from peripheral blood, addressing slow turnaround times and false negatives common in conventional methods. Developed in partnership with German company Noscendo, the test is CE-IVD certified and applicable to various specimens like cerebrospinal fluid and synovial fluid. It promises higher sensitivity for critical cases especially in immunocompromised or sepsis patients reducing reliance on empirical antibiotics, repeated testing, and delays in therapy. Results are available in roughly five days, marking a major advancement in India’s infectious disease diagnostics landscape.
MedGenome, India’s leading genomics-driven diagnostics company, has launched MetaSeq an innovative blood test designed to revolutionize the diagnosis of bloodstream infections (BSIs) and other difficult-to-detect infectious diseases. The test uses metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) to analyze microbial cell-free DNA (cfDNA) present in blood samples, enabling the simultaneous identification of more than 1,400 clinically relevant pathogens covering bacteria, fungi, parasites, and DNA viruses in a single assay.
Traditional blood culture methods, while standard, often take days to yield results and frequently produce false negatives, particularly after antibiotic exposure or in low-bacterial-load cases. This leads to prolonged empirical treatments, increased resistance risks, and poorer outcomes in critically ill patients. MetaSeq bypasses these limitations by detecting pathogen DNA directly, even when viable organisms are not culturable, offering a broader, hypothesis-free approach to diagnosis.
The platform is powered by Noscendo’s DISQVER® bioinformatics solution, which applies advanced algorithms to sequencing data for precise, clinically actionable insights. DISQVER® holds recognition from the World Health Organization as the only clinically approved NGS platform for diagnosing invasive fungal diseases. MetaSeq has achieved CE-IVD validation for peripheral blood samples and can extend to other clinical specimens such as cerebrospinal fluid, synovial fluid, and ascitic fluid, broadening its utility in invasive infections.
Results are typically available in approximately five days, providing clinicians with faster, more comprehensive information to guide targeted therapies, especially for immunocompromised patients, sepsis cases, and those with complex or culture-negative infections. This innovation strengthens MedGenome’s infectious disease portfolio and supports timely interventions that can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare burdens.
The launch reflects growing momentum in genomics-based infectious disease diagnostics in India, where rapid and accurate pathogen identification remains a critical need amid rising antimicrobial resistance and infectious disease challenges.
“Diagnosing bloodstream infections remains one of the most complex aspects of clinical care, often resulting in prolonged treatment courses, repeated testing, and delays in targeted therapy. MetaSeq is designed to provide earlier and more accurate diagnostic insights using genomics-driven analysis.”
By
HB Team
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