GI Effects Microbial Ecology Profile - Stool

GI Effects is unlike any other stool analysis profile, going beyond the standard parameters for identifying gastrointestinal disorders.

The GI Effects Profile uses DNA analysis to identify microbiota including anaerobes, a previously immeasurable area of the gut environment. DNA assessment is specific and accurate, avoids the pitfalls of sample transport, reports results as specific numbers, and is more sensitive than classic laboratory methods.

Download the White Paper on documented limitations of culture based stool assessment.

The Microbial Ecology Profile

Over 99% of the bacteria in the gut are anaerobes, but in the cecum, aerobic bacteria reach high densities. Under normal homeostatic conditions, the intestinal microflora are of central importance in preventing colonization by pathogens, termed “colonization resistance.” Microorganisms perform a host of useful functions, such as fermenting unused energy substrates, communicating with the immune system, preventing growth of harmful species, regulating the development of the gut, producing vitamins for the host (such as biotin and vitamin K), and producing hormones.

The Microbial Profile focuses on predominate, opportunistic, and pathogenic bacteria, as well as yeast/fungi, parasites, adiposity index, and microbial and fungi sensitivities.   The Microbial Profile is also an easy and cost-effective follow-up testing option to monitor targeted therapy in patients.

Advantages of the GI Effects Stool Profiles

• Greater Accuracy
  Microbial DNA analysis improves the accuracy of results and includes both aerobes and anaerobes. Anaerobes comprise over 95% of the bacteria in the gut and are difficult to detect with old culture methods.
• Antibiotic resistance genes
  DNA analysis detects organisms possessing genes that give rise to antibiotic resistance, offering clinicians a superior tool for effective patient management.
• Single Sample Collection
  Culture methods require multiple collections, whereas the GI Effects Stool Profile requires only one sample collection leading to improved patient compliance!
• Eliminates Errors in Transport
  Sample transport is a source of significant error in culture analysis due to the change in microbial balance from the time of collection. Using DNA analysis, the specimen is placed in a fixative tube that stops microbial growth and offers a highly accurate snapshot of the microbial balance in the gut.
• Increased Sensitivity
  GI Effects detects as few as 5 cells per gram - a 5000-fold increase in sensitivity over microscopy for parasite detection.

Continuing our commitment to innovation

-Manual of Clinical Microbiology, 8th Edition, Vol. 1, page 235, 2003