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in vivo Sampling is the Future of Microbiome Testing

We lead in clinical microbiome research and testing offering a comprehensive end-to-end platform designed to bring science-backed solutions to the personal care and pharma industry. 

We offer an expansive platform to conduct research on personal care products through microbiome testing, biophysical assessments, and offer full recruitment services for studies. We are keen to publish our findings with our partners to increase the literature within this space.

At present our database of over 20,000 human microbiome samples is one of the most sophisticated within the industry and is growing rapidly.

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Sand Dunes
Garden Soil
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Skin

Test your skincare products, ranging from facial cleansers, serums, moisturisers, and SPFs.

Scalp

Test your scalp care products ranging from scalp serums, oils, shampoos, and conditioners.

Vaginal

Test your intimate care products, ranging from washes, to hygiene sprays, and balms. 

Oral

Test your oral care products ranging from mouth washes and toothpastes.

Full End-To-End Testing Platform

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in vivo Study Design

Collaborating closely with our clients to develop customised study protocols, ensuring that objectives are met with precision.

Validated Collection

Our non-invasive collection system consistently collects material for downstream analysis and allows for remote testing.

Analysis & Reporting

All analysis is carried out in-house allowing for a faster turn-around time on your study with exclusive access to our team of scientists and formulation experts.

White Paper Publication

Co-author a white paper with us based on the findings of your study to shorten the knowledge gap within the industry to demonstrate active's impact.

Candidate Recruitment

Carefully select human participants (location, age, etc.) to ensure the relevance and accuracy of the study.

Microbiome Detection

We offer four types of sequencing techniques including qPCR with our proprietary Smart Probes™, 16S, ITS and Shotgun Metagenomics.

Claims Certification

Providing comprehensive reports and certifications (Maintains the Microbiome seal) based on the study results which can be used in communication efforts.

Co-Presentation 

We offer support by co-presenting at conferences where you want to demonstrate the impact of your study findings and explain the science behind the research.

State of the Art Sequencing

Using next-generation sequencing of the collection of micro-organisms found on the body, during product usage, Sequential investigates the microbial diversity, and particular micro-organisms we know are important and play a role in a healthy microbiome. With your pick from one of four sequencing reports, Sequential makes it easier to understand what depth of analysis is required for your particular needs.

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qPCR Microbiome (Bacteria+Fungi)

Quantitative PCR (qPCR), also known as Real-Time PCR, is a method that Sequential uses in-house to measure the absolute number of copies of a microbial DNA defined by Sequential’s proprietary Smart Probes™. Using this method, we quantify the amount bacteria or fungi, allowing us to report level of species and strains within a given sample. The entire process is done at Sequential to ensure quality control, and extra control on your samples and privacy.

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Next-Generation Sequencing of ITS (total fungal population)

ITS rRNA gene sequencing, or ITS amplicon sequencing is performed at Sequential to determine the relative abundance of taxa in a fungal community, and to compare between groups of interest. We know that fungi play a critical role in the microbiome of a healthy human, and it’s important to consider this application, especially for the scalp microbiome, and vaginal or vulva microbiome. We routinely offer two types of ITS rRNA primer regions: ITS1 & ITS2

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Next-Generation Sequencing of 16S 

16S rRNA gene sequencing, or 16S amplicon sequencing, is performed at Sequential to determine the relative abundance of taxa in a bacterial community, and to compare between groups of interest. This level of analysis can help to address changes in the overall bacterial profile over time or between treatment groups. We routinely offer two types of 16s rRNA primer regions: 16S V4 & 16S V1-V3

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Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing 

Shotgun metagenome sequencing is performed at Sequential for taxonomic profiling (diversity and abundance), as well as functional analysis across different organisms in a more exploratory approach. This complex technique allows for parallel sequencing of DNA from all organisms (bacterial, fungal, viral and human) within the community, with good coverage for species-level detection. The data generation allows for more advanced reporting and genome assemblies.

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FAQ

  • What is Sequential's testing platform?
    Sequential has developed the gold standard test for microbiome-friendly products, in vivo (in, or on, humans). Finally, we can give some certainty about if a product is truly affecting the microbiome. We offer a complete end-to-end solution to support microbiome-friendly claims. From consultancy and study design to our proprietary microbiome testing kits. We analyse, interpret and report our findings to meet your needs.
  • Why is it necessary to test the microbiome in vivo?
    At present, there are no regulations for microbiome-related formulas that brands and formulators can follow, however, it has been universally acknowledged that the in vivo method of conducting clinical studies is becoming critical and paramount to getting marketing claims through. When regulations are introduced, which may be imminent, the in vitro system will find itself lacking, resulting in limited claims and certifications that do not hold their value. This is why, we at Sequential strive to offer an in vivo approach, knowing full well that we want our client's claims to be significantly backed by scientific and quantifiable data.
  • What type of sequencing technology does Sequential use for analysis?
    We offer four types of sequencing techniques including qPCR with our Smart Probes™, 16S, ITS and Shotgun Metagenomics. Using next-generation sequencing of the collection of microorganisms found on the body, during product usage, Sequential investigates the microbial diversity, and particular microorganisms we know are important and play a role in a healthy microbiome.
  • Does Sequential offer claims certification for tested products?
    We provide our clients with a certification to claim “Maintains the Microbiome” subject to in vivo testing results which can be used in communication efforts. Once your product is tested with our qPCR Smart Probes™ and has shown favourable results in supporting the microbiome, we can certify your product with our Maintains the Microbiome certification seal. We have ensured that our seal and certification are backed by quantifiable data and scientifically significant markers. The aim is to ensure our clients feel confident in making their claims and can communicate the true benefit of their microbiome formulations.
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