Rapid whole genome sequencing (rWGS) for the NICU & PICU
Turnaround time starting at 5 days
By pairing the most advanced sequencing with clinical expertise, we deliver comprehensive diagnostic reports in under 5 days to help medical teams manage critically ill patients. For ultimate understanding and clarity, add on long-read sequencing and receive a second report in 10-15 additional days.
Why choose rapid genome sequencing?
Genome sequencing is recommended as first-line testing by multiple experts, including the
- American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) 1
- American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) 2
- American Epilepsy Society (AES) 3
Rapid genome sequencing in critically ill infants and children has demonstrated clinical utility, often leading to changes in clinical management 4.
Which NICU & PICU patients are eligible for rapid genome sequencing?
Recent studies support moving from an inclusionary to an exclusionary approach when identifying NICU & PICU patients who could benefit from rWGS.
Instead of limiting to patients with symptoms classically associated with a genetic condition, opening testing to those patients whose symptoms are not fully explained by physical trauma, infection, or complications of prematurity has overall positive results.
Why choose Variantyx rapid genome sequencing?
Many genetic disorders are caused by variant types that cannot be reliably detected by traditional tests, including genome sequencing by other labs. Our rapid testing – which utilizes both short and long-read genome sequencing – simultaneously evaluates more variant types across all regions of the genome, delivering the most comprehensive results available.
We provide two testing options:
- Genomic Unity® Lightning Genome Analysis – this test uses short-read genome sequencing to provide a comprehensive diagnostic report in 5 days or less.
- Genomic Unity® Lightning 2.0 Genome Analysis testing – two different versions of this optional add-on combine short and long-read sequencing for the ultimate analysis, delivering a second report in 10-15 additional days.
Other Rapid WGS | ||||
Sequencing Technology | srWGS | srWGS | srWGS & lrWGS | srWGS & lrWGS |
SNVs & Indels | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Mitchondrial Variants | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Aneuploidy | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Deletions/Duplications | >1 kb | Any size (inter and intragenic) | Any size (inter and intragenic) | Any size (inter and intragenic) |
Inversions | – | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Mobile Element Insertions | – | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Repeat Expansions | Varies | – | 27 genes | 44 genes |
Methylation Status* | – | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Variant Phasing | – | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Intrinsic Confirmation | – | – | ✓ | ✓ |
* Methylation patterns associated with Angelman, Prader-Willi and Fragile X syndromes.
The proof is in the results
In a representative data set of 157 neonate cases, we saw a diagnostic yield of 44%.
When focused on a subset with classic indications prompting NICU evaluation, the yield increased to 48%, rising as high as 71% for cases with select phenotypes.
Learn more about our testing options
All rapid genome tests are not equal. With our combined short and long-read genome sequencing platform we see more. More variants, with greater resolution, all with one sample.
The following tests will be available to order starting May 18, 2026.
Genomic Unity® Lightning Genome Analysis
A rapid diagnostic test to identify genetic variants that correlate with a critically ill patient’s symptoms.
- Short-read genome sequencing only
- Includes analysis of small sequence changes, structural variants and mitochondrial variants
- 5 day or less TAT
Genomic Unity® Lightning 2.0 Genome Analysis
For the ultimate analysis for NICU/PICU patients, optionally add on Genomic Unity® Lightning 2.0 testing tailored to infants and children.
- Adds long-read genome sequencing
- Adds analysis of 27 repeat expansion genes
- Adds methylation analysis, variant phasing and intrinsic confirmatory validation
- Receive a second report in 10-15 additional days
Genomic Unity® Lightning 2.0 Genome Analysis – Standard
For the ultimate analysis for ICU patients, optionally add on Genomic Unity® Lightning 2.0 testing tailored to adults.
- Adds long-read genome sequencing
- Adds analysis of 44 repeat expansion genes
- Adds methylation analysis, variant phasing and intrinsic confirmatory validation
- Receive a second report in 10-15 additional days
FAQs
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Results are available in just 5 days or less. If you choose to add on Genomic Unity® Lightning 2.0 testing, a second report will be delivered in 10-15 additional days.
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Yes! We provide 24/7 customer service for rapid testing. Contact us anytime via the following methods:
Email: Lightning@variantyx.com
Telephone: 508-834-3049
Fax: 508-302-0528
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Insurance coverage varies by geographic area and payer. For billing questions, please contact us.
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No, Genomic Unity® Lightning 2.0 Genome Analysis and Genomic Unity® Lightning 2.0 Genome Analysis – Standard are only available as an add-on to Genomic Unity® Lightning Genome Analysis.
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Yes! To include analysis of short tandem repeats, add on Genomic Unity® Lightning 2.0 Genome Analysis (analyzes repeats in 27 genes) or Genomic Unity® Lightning 2.0 Genome Analysis – Standard (analyzes repeats in 44 genes).
View all repeat expansions detected by Variantyx testing, including FMR1 and PHOX2B.
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Ready to learn more?
Connect with a Clinical Specialist to find out how easy it is to bring the power of rapid whole genome sequencing to your practice.