Sequencing vs. Genotyping
Our scientists have been hard at work on a new test we’re calling the Counsyl Test 2.0. What’s different? Well, everything and nothing. You see, we’re still looking for mutations that cause the same 100+ diseases. Where before our technology looked at 400 of the most common mutations for these diseases, our new technology can test for more than 10,000 mutations. Yes, you read that correctly: greater than ten thousand.
How do we do this? We use a technology called Next Generation Sequencing (NGS.) With Counsyl Test 1.0, we look at very specific places on your genome to see if there is a mutation in your DNA in a specific spot.
With our new technology, we can look at entire sections of DNA at one time, allowing us to find many more mutations.
It might help to think of an analogy: imagine your DNA is like the ocean, and it takes special technology to investigate what lies beneath the surface.
Imagine that Counsyl Test 1.0 is like a snorkeler. With just a face mask and a snorkel, a person can see many types of fish and coral. In fact, much of what’s interesting is up near the surface. However, this snorkel technology is limited and can only go so deep.

Counsyl Test 2.0 is like taking our intrepid explorer and giving her SCUBA gear. She can jump into the water in the exact same location. She can swim near the surface and see the exact same fish and coral as snorkelers. She can also go deeper, and see creatures that only live far beneath the surface. This equipment is more expensive, but it allows her to see more deeply than before.
So, there you have it— a quick dive into the difference between genotyping and sequencing. We are proud to now offer both options. As always, the decision about which test is right for you should be made by you and your doctor.
Recent posts
March 17, 2021
NAVIGATING YOUR BREAST AND OVARIAN HEALTH IN THE (NEVER-ENDING) ERA OF COVID
It has been almost a year since most of us found ourselves in the completely unchartered territory of “sheltering in…
Read more about NAVIGATING YOUR BREAST AND OVARIAN HEALTH IN THE (NEVER-ENDING) ERA OF COVIDFebruary 25, 2021
I Am Glad to Know: The Importance of Carrier Screening Through the Voice of a Carrier
This Sunday, February 28th, is #RareDiseaseDay! To raise awareness and support for the rare disease community, Myriad Women’s Health partnered…
Read more about I Am Glad to Know: The Importance of Carrier Screening Through the Voice of a CarrierDecember 23, 2020
Myriad’s 7 Greatest Hits in 2020
Before we say goodbye to 2020, we’d like to thank and recognize our partners. Together, we ensure patients have access…
Read more about Myriad’s 7 Greatest Hits in 2020