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PCR diagnostics of the microbiome: an accurate window into the microworld of our health
Why study the microbiome?
Microbiome — is a complex ecosystem of billions of microorganisms that live in our bodies. Most of them are in the intestines, but microflora is also found in the mouth, lungs, skin, and genitourinary tract. These invisible inhabitants perform functions without which a person simply would not survive: they help digest food, synthesize vitamins, regulate immunity, and even affect mood.
When the microbiome changes—due to illness, stress, diet, or antibiotics—it can cause a range of problems. From common bloating to chronic conditions. This is where PCR diagnostics of the microbiome come to the rescue.
PCR: a method that sees more than others
PCR (polymerase chain reaction) is a molecular method that allows you to detect traces of DNA or RNA of bacteria, fungi, and viruses in human biomaterial. And most importantly, even in very small quantities.
According to gastroenterologist and functional therapist Natalia Hrytsenko:
«PCR analysis allows us to see what remained “invisible” in classical bacteriological cultures. We not only recognize the pathogen, but we can also understand how the balance of the entire microbiome has changed. This is no longer just an analysis, but a diagnostic strategy.»
When and why is PCR analysis of microflora prescribed?
chronic digestive problems (bloating, diarrhea, constipation)
irritable bowel syndrome
recurrences of candidiasis or bacterial vaginosis
skin diseases with an allergic component
immune system disorders (frequent colds, fatigue)
after a long course of antibiotics or hormones
neurological conditions with suspected gut-brain axis disorders
What does PCR diagnostics of the microbiome reveal?
Beneficial flora (Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus)
Conditionally pathogenic (Escherichia coli, Enterococcus, Clostridium)
Pathogens (Salmonella, Shigella, Candida, Campylobacter)
Fungal microflora (Candida albicans, etc.)
Signs of viral activation (e.g., herpesviruses, rotaviruses)
Antibiotic resistance markers
Comparison with other diagnostic methods
| Method | Features |
|---|---|
| Back-sowing | Requires live pathogen, results within 7 days |
| PCR | Detects even inactive or dead bacteria, results in 1–2 days |
| ELISA | Detects antibodies, but not the pathogen itself |
| Metagenomics (NGS) | Studies the entire microbiome, but requires a specialized laboratory |
Laboratory assistant Yuriy Kolesnyk comments:
«PCR is the optimal option between accuracy and accessibility. We can quickly assess dysbiosis, find out which bacteria are deficient and which are overactive. This is especially valuable for people with difficult diagnostics or unclear symptoms.»
Examples from clinical practice
Case 1. A 32-year-old woman complained of bloating, fatigue, and rash. PCR revealed a Bifidobacterium deficiency and an excess of Candida. Probiotic therapy and a low-sugar diet were prescribed, and the condition normalized after 2 months.
Case 2. A 45-year-old patient after prolonged antibiotic treatment. PCR showed a sharp decrease in lactoflora and an increase in opportunistic Enterobacter. Correction was made probiotics і prebiotics, which allowed us to avoid repeated gastritis.
Why it's important for overall health
Disruption of the microbiome is not just about digestion. Today, dysbiosis has been proven to:
increases the risk of metabolic syndrome and obesity
affects anxiety levels, mood, and concentration
changes the effectiveness of medications (including chemotherapy drugs)
can provoke autoimmune reactions
Looking to the future
In the future, PCR studies of the microbiome will become part of personalized medical profiles. A person will know which probiotics are right for them, how to change their diet to support the flora, and even how to adjust the risks of certain chronic diseases.
PCR diagnostics of the microbiome is a tool that allows you to understand your own body at the cellular level. Combined with a doctor's experience, the results of other tests, and a conscious approach to nutrition and lifestyle, this is a powerful step towards long-term health.
