Whole Genome Sequencing is a faster, cheaper and more effective way of diagnosing TB.

Whole Genome Sequencing found to be more effective

Scientists are using innovative DNA technology to diagnose cases of TB up to eight times faster than traditional methods.

A study led by the University of Oxford concludes that Whole Genome Sequencing is a faster, cheaper and more effective way of diagnosing TB.

The researchers say that the method marks 'a significant milestone' in the way TB is tackled, but the outlook looks even better, as whole genome sequencing technology is set to improve.

Whole Genome Sequencing has been used before in TB research studies, but this is the first time that it has been applied in real world scenarios.

In the study, the researchers were able to detect presence of TB and whether it was resistant to commonly used antibiotics within one week - up to eight times faster than utilising traditional diagnosis methods. 

Furthermore, the fast diagnosis meant the scientists were able to detect and respond to potential outbreaks as they happen.

The method has also proven to be more cost-effective, at an average of £481 per positive case, compared to £517 per case using current technologies.

Lead author Dr Louise Pankhurst from the University of Oxford, said: "This is a really exciting time to be working in infectious disease research. The UK is poised to become the first country in the world to replace traditional tuberculosis diagnosis with whole genome sequencing.

"Our study has shown how this will dramatically speed up the time taken to diagnose TB, helping patients be placed on the most effective treatment as soon as possible and reducing the risk of disease transmission."

The research, Rapid, comprehensive, and affordable mycobacterial diagnosis with whole-genome sequencing: a prospective study is published in the Lancet Respiratory Medicine.