Microbiome RNA Complex Profile (16S rRNA Gene Amplicon Sequencing)
This test analyzes genetic material (RNA) from bacteria in your body to assess the diversity and presence of microbial communities, often used to evaluate gut health or infections.
["This test helps doctors understand your body’s microbial balance, which may affect digestion, immunity, or infections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 20463-6
- Short code
- M avium Cmplx rRNA Spec Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- M avium Cmplx rRNA Spec Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
The test detects and quantifies RNA sequences from bacteria in your sample. These sequences are unique to different bacterial species, allowing for identification of which microbes are present. The analysis focuses on the 16S rRNA gene, a common genetic marker in bacteria, to create a profile of your microbiome composition.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Doctors may order this test to diagnose infections, evaluate gut health (e.g., in inflammatory bowel disease), assess antibiotic effects on your microbiome, or investigate unexplained symptoms linked to microbial imbalances.
Sample Collection and Preparation
This test requires a biological sample containing bacteria, such as stool, saliva, or sometimes blood. The sample is processed to extract RNA, which is then sequenced to identify bacterial species. The lab analyzes the genetic data to generate a microbiome profile.
Common Uses in Healthcare
Results may be used to guide treatment decisions, such as adjusting antibiotics to preserve beneficial microbes, managing chronic conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, or monitoring microbial shifts after medical interventions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Microbiome RNA profiles can reveal imbalances between beneficial and harmful bacteria, which may contribute to conditions like infections, autoimmune disorders, or metabolic issues. While not all microbiome changes are harmful, they can inform personalized care plans to support gut health or infection control.
Short name
RNA Microbiome Profile
Frequently asked questions
What does a microbiome RNA profile tell me about my health?
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can this test replace traditional blood or stool cultures?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy