Certified Molecular Diagnostics Collection centres: Abuja · Lagos · Kaduna

Whole Exome Sequencing (Research)

Also known as: WES · Exome sequencing · Research exome

Subsidised whole exome sequencing for MSc, PhD and institutional research projects, with raw data delivery and optional bioinformatics support.

2 Medical Review & Clinical Authority

Reviewed by a certified medical doctor

This page and the corresponding laboratory report are overseen by an in-house clinician to ensure medical accuracy and patient safety.

  • Reviewing doctorDr. Ibrahim Musa, MBBS, FMCPaed, Cert. Medical Genetics
  • Clinical titleConsultant Medical Geneticist
  • MDCN registrationMDCN/2011/58210
  • Last clinical review 22 Jun 2026
    Next review due 22 Jun 2027

“Access to sequencing should not be a barrier to Nigerian postgraduate research. Our subsidy programme is designed to make exome-scale data attainable for MSc and PhD candidates.”

Dr. Ibrahim Musa, MBBS, FMCPaed, Cert. Medical Genetics
Consultant Medical Geneticist · MBBS, FMCPaed, Cert. Medical Genetics
3 Clinical Indications & Who Should Take This Test

When is this test recommended?

Intended for research use only, including:

  • MSc and PhD thesis projects requiring exome-scale data
  • Rare disease gene discovery studies
  • Population genetics and genotype–phenotype research
  • Institutional research requiring validated sequencing output

Not for clinical diagnosis unless commissioned as a validated clinical assay.

4 Sampling & Patient Preparation

How to prepare and how the sample is collected

  • Specimen typeEDTA whole blood or extracted DNA
  • Turnaround21 business days

Patient preparation

For research use only. Submit a completed project abstract and institutional approval documentation where applicable.

Samples must be accompanied by proper chain-of-custody documentation and informed consent records.

Collection methods

  • Painless cheek (buccal) swab — quick, non-invasive and suitable for all ages.
  • Venous blood draw — EDTA whole blood, taken by a certified phlebotomist.
  • Discreet home collection kit — courier-dispatched nationwide with clear instructions.
For legal / chain-of-custody testing, sampling must be performed at an approved centre under witnessed conditions with photo identification. Read the legal testing guide.
5 Laboratory Methodology & Equipment

How your sample is analysed

Exome capture followed by next-generation sequencing on an Illumina-chemistry platform. Data is delivered as FASTQ/BAM/VCF. Optional bioinformatics support (alignment, variant calling, annotation) is available on request.

Platforms & instrumentation

Exome capture kits, Illumina-chemistry next-generation sequencing platforms, and validated secondary/tertiary bioinformatics pipelines.

  • Documented standard operating procedures for every assay.
  • Internal reference controls run alongside patient samples.
  • Participation in external proficiency testing programmes.
  • Dual-verification of every result before release.
6 Result Delivery & Genetic Counseling

How you receive your results

Encrypted, password-protected PDF report

Your results are delivered securely as an encrypted, password-protected PDF to your registered email address and WhatsApp. The file is never sent unprotected. Research data is delivered digitally in standard formats (FASTQ, BAM, VCF). Delivery is coordinated with the research supervisor and transferred securely.

Opening your report

  • The PDF password follows a standard formula based on your personal details.
  • Your counselor will confirm the exact password formula before release.
  • Need help? Our team can re-issue or reset access on request.

Read the full results delivery guide

Pre- and post-test counseling

Certified genetic counselors are available before and after your test to explain what the results mean, discuss implications for your family, and guide any next clinical steps.

7 Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Whole Exome Sequencing (Research)

Yes. MSc and PhD candidates across Nigerian universities can apply for a research subsidy through our academic portal, subject to eligibility and project review.

8 Physical Sample Collection Availability

Where to give your sample

Sample submission at Abuja, Lagos and Kaduna centres, or courier delivery of extracted DNA on request.

Abuja

DNA Labs Nigeria — Abuja

Plot 000, Central Business District, Abuja, Federal Capital Territory

Hours: 08:00–17:00 (Monday + 6 more)

Lagos

DNA Labs Nigeria — Lagos

000 Opebi Road, Ikeja, Lagos State

Hours: 08:00–17:00 (Monday + 6 more)

Kaduna

DNA Labs Nigeria — Kaduna

000 Independence Way, Kaduna, Kaduna State

Hours: 08:00–17:00 (Monday + 6 more)

Home collection kit: available for patients in every other Nigerian state. Request dispatch through WhatsApp and we will arrange discreet courier delivery with pre-paid return packaging.
Chat Confidentially with a Certified Genetic Counselor