From 16S to metatranscriptomics
The sequencing method you choose shapes the resolution of your microbiome context — and how much of the ATLAS interpretation layer becomes available. Deeper methods reveal more scores, panels, and insight packs, each still framed with honest confidence.
How sequencing choice shapes available insight
Method depth sets the resolution of what ATLAS can read
Different sequencing technologies capture microbial ecosystems at different resolutions, and that choice flows directly into what ATLAS can interpret.
16S rRNA sequencing identifies which bacteria are present — a broad, cost-effective view suited to genus-level context.
Shotgun metagenomics reads more of the genetic content, supporting finer taxonomic resolution and functional potential.
Metatranscriptomics looks at microbial activity — what genes are being expressed — for the most detailed picture.
For everyday readers, deeper methods mean a richer, more complete report. For science-literate readers and HCPs, method choice determines which scores, panels, and insight packs are available and how confidence indicators are calibrated.
Regardless of depth, results remain sequencing-derived microbial context describing associations, not causation — never a diagnosis. Choosing greater depth expands resolution, not certainty; every output is still read within its stated confidence and limits.
What 16S, WGS, and MetaT can support — and where each one stops.
Each ATLAS™ output records the sequencing method behind it, so interpretation never exceeds what the data can support. 16S Foundation™ profiles community composition and diversity. WGS Advanced™ adds species-level resolution and functional potential. MetaT Functional™ adds active expression context where workflow and QC support it. Where a method cannot support an output, ATLAS shows it as gated context — never as an empty or overstated result.
A score answers one biological question; the calculation underneath adapts to the method, but the public score stays stable.
See sequencing depth reflected in a real report
Explore how method choice changes which scores, panels, and insight packs appear — and how confidence is framed at each level.
Outputs that a method cannot support are shown as gated context, never as empty or overstated results.