GI Effects® Comprehensive
About the Test
The GI Effects® Comprehensive Profile test from Genova Diagnostics is a group of advanced stool tests that assess digestive function, intestinal inflammation, and the intestinal microbiome to assist in managing gastrointestinal health. Gut microorganisms are codependent on one another, and their human host and the health of one affect the other. The report will synthesize findings by integrating a novel, proprietary scoring system. These Functional Imbalance Scores will help direct targeted therapeutic recommendations with support options included on the front page of the report. Clinicians can prioritize test findings and treatment based on score severity and can track scores over time. Biomarkers are grouped and scored in 5 key areas relating to GI function:
- Maldigestion
- Inflammation
- Dysbiosis
- Metabolite Imbalance
- Infection
What it Measures
Several biomarkers are analyzed to define a diagnosis. For example, fecal calprotectin is studied to differentiate between IBD and IBS. The GI Comprehensive test can be considered to evaluate patients with a clinical history that suggests a gastrointestinal infection or dysbiosis.
The specific biomarkers measured in this test are related to:
Digestion/Absorption:
- Pancreatic Elastase-1
- Products of Protein
- Breakdown
- Fecal Fat
Inflammation/Immunology:
- Calprotectin
- Eosinophil Protein X
- Fecal Secretory IgA
- Fecal Occult Blood
- Gut Microbiome
- Metabolic indicators
- Commensal Bacteria
- Bacterial and mycology cultures
- Bacterial and mycology sensitivities
- Parasitology
- Campylobacter
- Clostridium difficile
- Escherichia coli
- Helicobacter pylori
- Fecal Lactoferrin
- Macro Exam for Worms
- Zonulin Family Peptide
- KOH Preparation for Yeast
The GI Effects Comprehensive Test combines a selection of high throughput methodologies for the microbiome study. 16S rRNA gene polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification technique for anaerobic commensal bacteria with Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) technology and standard microscopic ova and parasite detection with Next-Generation DNA sequencing for Blastocystis spp. The report will provide the results of the biomarkers analyzed, grouped, and scored in 5 key areas relating to GI function: Maldigestion, Inflammation, Dysbiosis, Metabolite Imbalance, and Infection. A positive result on one or more fecal biomarker tests may guide treatment options or may define or eliminate a diagnosis from further consideration.
Who it is For
Extensive scientific research associates an imbalance of the normal gut microbiota or dysbiosis to gastrointestinal conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and wider systemic alterations such as celiac disease, cardiovascular disease, neurological disorders, malnutrition, skin conditions, autoimmune disorders, immune system imbalances, and multiple inflammatory disorders. The GI Effects Comprehensive Test will report on biomarkers analysis, providing comprehensive information for developing strategic interventions. Symptoms usually improve as identified functional inadequacies and imbalances are normalized through lifestyle, targeted dietary, and supplementation therapeutics. The GI Effects Comprehensive Test can reveal critical information about the root cause for anyone experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms such as gas, diarrhea, bloating, indigestion, abdominal pain, and constipation.
Sample Type
Stool samples are shipped to the lab for sample analysis.