Method: Shotgun metagenomic sequencing (CLIA 21D2062464); not cleared or approved by the FDA. Results reflect relative microbial abundance for wellness education purposes. Not intended to diagnose or treat disease and not a substitute for clinical consultation. Microbial associations are based on emerging scientific research and may change over time.
A derived biomarker is a value that is calculated from other directly measured biomarkers rather than being measured directly in the lab.
Key benefits of Escherichia coli testing
- Commensal and pathogenic E. coli monitoring
- gut microbiome balance assessment
What is Escherichia coli?
Escherichia coli is a gram-negative bacterium that is a normal low-level gut resident in most healthy adults. However, certain pathogenic strains - including Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) - can cause serious illness. Metagenomic sequencing detects E. coli at the species level; strain characterization may require follow-up testing.
Why is Escherichia coli important?
Low-level E. coli is a normal part of many healthy gut microbiomes. Elevated E. coli, particularly in the context of other Enterobacteriaceae overgrowth, may signal dysbiosis. The clinical significance depends heavily on which strains or pathotypes are present.
What insights will I get?
Your E. coli level indicates whether this species is within a normal range or elevated. Discuss significantly elevated levels with your care team, particularly alongside antibiotic resistance markers or other pathogen signals.
.svg)
.avif)
.avif)
