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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

SIGMAR1 Gene Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Type 16 Genetic Test

The SIGMAR1 Gene Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Type 16 Genetic Test uses Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) to identify mutations in the SIGMAR1 gene associated with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurological disorder. This test can help individuals with a family history or symptoms understand their genetic risk.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
Blood sample (EDTA tube) or extracted DNA. Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.
Results
3 to 4 weeks. Confirm exact turnaround time with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is typically required for a blood draw. Confirm with the laboratory for any specific instructions.
Test priceKSh 40,000

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the SIGMAR1 Gene Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Type 16 Genetic Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Individuals with a family history of ALS
  • ✓Individuals experiencing symptoms suggestive of ALS (e.g., muscle weakness, speech difficulties)
  • ✓Individuals seeking to understand genetic predisposition to neurological disorders
  • ✓Diagnostic confirmation in suspected cases of ALS
  • ✓Risk assessment for individuals with relevant family history
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Identifies mutations in the SIGMAR1 gene associated with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), aiding in understanding genetic risk for this neurological disorder.
The SIGMAR1 Gene Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Type 16 NGS Genetic DNA Test is an advanced diagnostic tool designed to identify genetic mutations linked to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). ALS is a progressive neurological condition affecting nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and loss of motor function. Understanding genetic predisposition to this condition is important for early diagnosis and management.

This test specifically analyzes the SIGMAR1 gene. Mutations in this gene have been associated with an increased risk of developing ALS. The test uses Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology to examine DNA from a sample, providing insights into your genetic makeup and potential risks related to this specific gene and ALS.

Individuals with a family history of ALS, or those experiencing symptoms like muscle weakness, difficulty speaking, or swallowing, may benefit from this test. It can also be considered by individuals with other risk factors for neurological disorders.

Taking this test offers potential benefits, including early identification of genetic predisposition, informed decision-making about health management, and access to tailored information. Results typically take 3 to 4 weeks to process. A genetic counselor can help interpret the results and discuss their implications.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationNo special preparation is typically required for a blood draw. Confirm with the laboratory for any specific instructions.
SampleBlood sample (EDTA tube) or extracted DNA. Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.
MethodologyNext Generation Sequencing (NGS) of the SIGMAR1 gene.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test only analyzes the SIGMAR1 gene. ALS can be caused by mutations in other genes or have non-genetic causes. A negative result does not completely rule out ALS or other neurological conditions. Interpretation requires clinical correlation.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurological disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and loss of motor function.
This test looks for specific genetic mutations in the SIGMAR1 gene that have been linked to an increased risk of developing ALS.
Individuals with a family history of ALS or those experiencing symptoms like muscle weakness, difficulty speaking, or swallowing should discuss this test with their doctor.
Results are typically interpreted by a genetic counselor who can explain the findings and their potential implications for your health.
Results typically take 3 to 4 weeks to process. Confirm the current turnaround time with the laboratory.
Yes, a blood sample is typically required for this test. Alternatively, extracted DNA may be used. Confirm specimen requirements with the laboratory.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

Explore partnerships
09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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