Detailed Test Information
GI360 by Doctors Data
Key Advantages
- Doctor’s Data are the global experts on gastrointestinal testing and are recommended by The Institute of Functional Medicine
- Multiplex PCR Analysis for the Abundance and Diversity of Key Bacterial Populations of the GI Microbiome
- Multiplex PCR Detection of Pathogenic Bacteria, Viruses and Parasites
- Comprehensive Parasitology by Microscopy
- MALDI-TOF ID of Cultured Bacteria and Yeast
- Broad Range of Stool Chemistry Markers
- Standardised Susceptibility Testing of Isolated Bacteria and Yeast
test background
The GI360 is a comprehensive multi-technology stool test specifically developed to provide clinically actionable results, including standardised dysbiosis index and live susceptibility testing, this breakthrough test utilises the widest array of highly validated technologies in one test.
The GI360™ Profile utilises new evidence-based DNA mapping technology coupled with growth-based culture and ID by MALDI-TOF, sensitive biochemical assays and microscopy. The ultimate combination to detect and assess the status of pathogens, viruses, parasites and bacteria that may be contributing to acute or chronic gastrointestinal symptoms and disease.
With such a comprehensive overview of patients GI health, the GI360 provides practitioners with valuable information for uniquely tailored treatment strategies.
Clinical Value
It is designed to help identify maternal health risks and intervene with personalised diet, lifestyle and supplement advice to optimise health outcomes for mother and baby.
Breaking down what’s included in the GI360
BACTERIA – Culture and Microbiome Mapping
CHEMISTRY
Why is it important to test?
SCFAs are the end product of the bacterial fermentation process of dietary fibre by beneficial flora in the gut and play an important role in the health of the GI as well as protecting against intestinal dysbiosis. Lactobacilli and bifidobacteria produce large amounts of SCFAs, which decrease the pH of the intestines and therefore make the environment unsuitable for pathogens, including bacteria and yeast. Studies have shown that SCFAs have numerous implications in maintaining gut physiology. SCFAs decrease inflammation, stimulate healing, and contribute to normal cell metabolism and differentiation. Levels of Butyrate and Total SCFA in mg/mL are important for assessing overall SCFA production, and are reflective of beneficial flora levels and/or adequate fibre intake.
Butyrate is a major regulator of mucosal barrier integrity and mediates the release of anti inflammatory cytokines by epithelial cells. It is fuel for enterocytes, and it also mediates microbial cross talk.
Why is it important to test?
Inflammation can significantly increase intestinal permeability and compromise assimilation of nutrients. The extent of inflammation, whether caused by pathogens or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), can be assessed and monitored by examination of the levels of biomarkers such as lysozyme, lactoferrin, white blood cells and mucus via this stool test.
These markers can be used to differentiate between inflammation associated with potentially life-threatening inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which requires lifelong treatment, and less severe inflammation that can be associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) which is frequently due to the presence of enteroinvasive pathogens. Lactoferrin is only markedly elevated prior to and during the active phases of IBD, but not with IBS. Monitoring faecal lactoferrin levels in patients with IBD can therefore facilitate timely treatment of IBD, and the test can be ordered separately.
Why is it important to test?
IgA is secreted by mucosal tissue and represents the first line of defense of the GI mucosa and is central to the normal function of the GI tract as an immune barrier. Elevated levels of sIgA have been associated with an upregulated immune response.
If there is elevated sIgA levels when there is dysbiosis or a parasite present, this indicates that there is a normal immune response.
If there is low sIgA when there is dysbiosis or a parasite present, it may indicate a lowered immune response – therefore improving gut immunity should be prioritised.
Elastase
Elastase findings can be used for the exclusion of pancreatic insufficiency. Correlations between low levels and chronic pancreatitis and cancer have been reported. Decreased Elastase may also be seen in alcoholism or a past history of alcoholism.
Fat Stain
Microscopic determination of faecal fat using Sudan IV staining is a qualitative procedure utilised to assess fat absorption and to detect steatorrhea.
Muscle Fibres
Muscle fibres in the stool are an indicator of incomplete digestion. Bloating, flatulence, feelings of “fullness” may be associated with increase in muscle fibers.
Vegetable Fibres
Vegetable fibres in the stool may be indicative of inadequate chewing, or eating “on the run”.
Carbohydrates
The presence of reducing substances in stool specimens can indicate carbohydrate malabsorption.
What is it?
Beta-glucuronidase is an enzyme that breaks the tight bond between glucuronic acid and toxins in the intestines. The binding of toxins in the gut is protective by way of blocking their absorption and facilitating excretion. Higher levels of beta-glucuronidase may be associated with an imbalanced intestinal microbiota profile, as well as higher circulating oestrogens and lower faecal excretion of oestrogens.
PARASITES
What does it provide?
GI360 utilises multiplex DNA technology, testing for multiple pathogens and parasites (for which genetic probes exist for), to assist with identification.
What is it?
Gold standard parasitology involves a qualified parasitologist examining 3 consecutive stool samples via microscopy to detect all forms of parasites (including their egg stages), for the most conclusive assessment of parasite presence.
test choices
BASIC
GI360 Microbiome
-
Microbiome diversity and
brabundance map; PCR
PREmium
GI360 Essentials
-
Microbiome diversity and
brabundance map; PCR -
Viruses, Pathogens and
Parasites; PCR -
Expanded Parasitology,
Microscopy -
Bacterial and fungal
Proteomics ID; MALDI-TOF -
Direct Antimicrobial
Susceptibilities
ultimate
GI360
-
Microbiome diversity and
brabundance map; PCR -
Viruses, Pathogens and
Parasites; PCR -
Expanded Parasitology,
Microscopy -
Bacterial and fungal
Proteomics ID; MALDI-TOF -
Direct Antimicrobial
Susceptibilities -
Stool Chemistries, including
Beta-Glucuronidase
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New Zealand practitioners:
If you are based in New Zealand you can access GI360 testing via FxMed.
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How to Ensure your Functional Tests are Evidence-Based
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