An odyssey from laboratory to field ? - Portable tNGS system for TB diagnosis in programmatic setting

In spite of the elaborate diagnostic modalities available in India, there are certain shortcomings which will affect patient management. In order to address the gaps, NTEP offers scope for whole genome sequencing at few of its reference laboratories. Next generation sequencing comprising of whole genome sequencing (WGS) and targeted next generation sequencing (tNGS) are upcoming fields in TB diagnosis In a programmatic setting, tNGS offers great promise for smear positive or NAAT positive samples to be used with a Minion platform in a field setting beyond just the National reference laboratories. Once materialised, the tNGS would offer personalised patient management as well as help in public health by identification of outbreaks, transmission chain monitoring and drug resistance surveillance.