Metagenomics Laboratory at St Thomas

The Synnovis Metagenomics service provides rapid, unbiased pathogen detection using advanced Next Generation Sequencing technologies. Delivered through the Pathogen Genomics Unit within Infection Sciences, the service identifies bacteria, fungi, and DNA and RNA viruses directly from clinical samples, without the need for prior culture. This enables fast, comprehensive diagnosis for complex or culture‑negative infections. 

Using a validated workflow developed collaboratively by Synnovis and Guy’s & St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, the service applies human DNA depletion, total nucleic acid extraction, Oxford Nanopore long‑read sequencing and automated bioinformatic analysis to provide clinically actionable results within hours. Metagenomics currently supports the investigation of respiratory samples and complements routine microbiology and virology diagnostics across the network. 

The service operates Monday to Friday, with samples received before 08:00 processed the same day. Urgent tests are available following discussion with a Clinical Scientist, with preliminary results issued the same evening where clinically indicated. All analyses are conducted by the specialist Pathogen Genomics team, working closely with clinical microbiology and infectious diseases colleagues to ensure results are interpreted in context and support timely patient management. 

Please refer to the user guide below