Molecular Typing

Significance
Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) is a powerful molecular tool with high discriminatory power. Reliability and reproducibility make WGS a “gold standard” in epidemiological investigations seeking to identify the source of illness.

The process determines the genome (DNA sequence) of an organism. DNA sequences can be compared to determine the degree of relatedness. This information can be used to aid in epidemiological investigations.

WGS can also be used to compare bacterial strains from different patients. This information will help determine if there is an outbreak situation, or if the patients acquired the infection from different sources. The answer to these questions may have infection control implications.

Test Method
Whole Genome Sequencing is performed using the Illumina Nextera kit. Sequence type is determined using ESGLI/Public Health England’s Sequence-Based Typing database. Isolates are compared for relatedness based on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).

Turn Around Time
3–4 weeks

Test Code
301

Sample Transport
Contact SPL for more information.

Accreditations and Proficiency
See Accreditations and Proficiency page for information on our accreditations and Legionella testing proficiency programs.