Unpacking the Benefits Provided by Advances in Molecular Testing
Molecular testing began with the completion of the Human Genome Project in 2003 which led to a far greater understanding of DNA and RNA sequencing as well as a better understanding of the impact that genetics has on disease risk factors. Since then, there have been a number of substantial advancements in the technology and processes used for molecular testing. Today, molecular testing plays an incredibly important role in our fight against the COVID-19 virus, and if you’ve ever been tested for COVID-19 then you have already undergone molecular testing.
Beyond testing for COVID-19, though, molecular testing can be used to detect a broad range of viral, bacterial, and fungal diseases. In this article, we will explore what molecular testing is, how it works, and the benefits provided by advances in molecular testing technology.
What is Molecular Testing?
The exact science behind molecular PCR testing is quite complex. In essence, though, molecular testing entails detecting pathogens in a patient based on whether the RNA or DNA of those pathogens is present in a sample such as one collected from the patient using a nasal swab. Every pathogen – whether it’s a virus, bacteria, parasite, or fungus – is defined by either its own RNA-based or DNA-based genome. By searching for these specific genetic markers, molecular testing is able to pinpoint the exact pathogens that are present within a sample. Compared to traditional laboratory testing, molecular testing is much more accurate when it comes to identifying the exact pathogen that is present, leading to more timely diagnoses and more effective, targeted treatments.
In addition to detecting the presence of disease-causing pathogens, molecular testing can also provide information regarding the pathogen’s drug resistance, once again leading to more effective treatments. By analyzing the genetic makeup of the pathogen that is infecting the patient being tested, physicians are able to form a much more complete understanding of the patient’s condition and recommend highly targeted treatments without having to undergo a lengthy and frustrating trial and error process.
Advances in Molecular Testing
Most advances in molecular testing have come via a better understanding of genetics. A better understanding regarding the specific genetic makeup of various pathogens has made it much easier for us to detect the presence of those pathogens via molecular testing that searches for their genetic markers. In addition to helping us detect these pathogens, a better understanding of their genetic makeup also allows us to recommend more personalized treatment options.
Advances in our understanding of genetics have been followed by advances in the molecular testing process itself, with better tools and testing procedures enabling physicians to further improve the accuracy of their diagnoses and further reduce the amount of time and effort that it takes to identify the presence of a specific pathogen within a collected sample.
Thanks to these advances in molecular testing coupled with our ever-improving understanding of genetics, molecular testing has become one of the most beneficial tools in all of healthcare. The role that molecular testing has played in helping us slow the spread of COVID-19 is a great testament to the benefits that it can provide. Going forward, molecular testing will remain the most effective way for healthcare providers to diagnose both COVID-19 as well as a broad range of other diseases.
Schedule an Appointment for Molecular Testing With St. Jude Labs
At St. Jude Labs, we are proud to leverage the latest advances in molecular testing technology in order to provide our patients and the physicians treating them with a clear and comprehensive understanding of their condition. If you would like to schedule a molecular testing appointment with St. Jude Labs that will be able to detect the presence of any bacterial, viral, parasitic, or fungal infection, then we invite you to contact us today.
