NAT2 Full Gene Mutation Analysis, Whole Blood, Sequencing
This test analyzes the full N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) gene from a whole blood sample to identify genetic variants that affect how quickly your body processes certain medications and substances.
["NAT2 full-gene sequencing helps predict whether you are a slow, intermediate, or rapid acetylator based on your genetic variants."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 90259-3
- Short code
- NAT2 Full Mut Anl Bld/T Seq
- Synonyms
- NAT2 Full Mut Anl Bld/T Seq
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- sequencing
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What the Test Measures
The test reads the entire coding sequence of the NAT2 gene, which provides instructions for an enzyme involved in metabolizing many drugs and chemicals. By identifying variants across the full gene rather than only common hotspots, the test can reveal changes that influence enzyme activity.
Why Whole Blood Is Used
NAT2 testing is typically performed on DNA extracted from whole blood, a stable and reliable source of genetic material. The sequencing approach examines the gene directly rather than measuring enzyme activity in the bloodstream.
What Acetylator Status Means
NAT2 variants are commonly grouped into slow, intermediate, and rapid acetylator phenotypes. Your combination of variants determines how quickly the enzyme breaks down certain medications, which can affect both effectiveness and risk of side effects.
Limitations to Know
Sequencing may not detect very large deletions or other structural changes, and results should be interpreted with your medication list and clinical context. This test does not by itself determine dosing; a healthcare provider must apply the result.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
NAT2 genetic variation is clinically relevant to drugs such as isoniazid, hydralazine, procainamide, and certain sulfonamides, where acetylator status can influence drug levels and adverse effects. It is also studied in relation to exposure to certain environmental amines. Results are most useful when combined with medication history and clinical judgment.
Short name
NAT2 Genotyping
Frequently asked questions
Will this test tell me exactly what dose of a medication I need?
Do I need to fast before this test?
Can my NAT2 result change over time?
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