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Genetic Testing

TACO1 Gene Leigh Syndrome Due To The Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency Genetic Test

Genetic test to identify mutations in the TACO1 gene, associated with Leigh syndrome, a severe neurological disorder. Helps understand the cause of symptoms and guide management.

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), extracted DNA, or one drop of blood on an FTA card.
Results
Approximately 3 to 4 weeks. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
A clinical history assessment and genetic counseling session are recommended before testing. A family history pedigree chart may be helpful.
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 TACO1 Gene Leigh Syndrome Due To The Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency 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 symptoms suggestive of Leigh syndrome (e.g., developmental delay, loss of motor skills).
  • ✓Patients with a family history of Leigh syndrome or mitochondrial disorders.
  • ✓Diagnosis confirmation in suspected cases.
  • ✓Genetic counseling for families affected by Leigh syndrome.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify mutations in the TACO1 gene, which are associated with Leigh syndrome due to mitochondrial complex IV deficiency. This information can aid in diagnosis, understanding the cause of neurological symptoms, and guiding management strategies.
This genetic test analyzes the TACO1 gene to identify mutations linked to Leigh syndrome, a serious neurological condition. It uses Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology to examine the gene, which plays a vital role in mitochondrial function. Identifying mutations can help healthcare providers understand the cause of the disorder and develop appropriate management strategies.

This test specifically looks for changes in the TACO1 gene that can cause mitochondrial complex IV deficiency, a condition associated with various neurological symptoms.

Individuals experiencing symptoms like developmental delays, loss of motor skills, or other neurological issues may benefit from this test. It is also recommended for those with a family history of Leigh syndrome or related mitochondrial disorders to assess their genetic risk.

Key benefits of this test include:

* Identifying specific genetic mutations related to Leigh syndrome. * Providing insights into the underlying cause of neurological symptoms. * Assisting in determining appropriate treatment and management approaches. * Offering valuable information for genetic counseling and family planning.

Your healthcare provider will help interpret the test results. A positive result may indicate a diagnosis related to Leigh syndrome, while a negative result can provide reassurance. Discussing your results with a doctor is essential for making informed healthcare decisions.
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 →
PreparationA clinical history assessment and genetic counseling session are recommended before testing. A family history pedigree chart may be helpful.
SampleBlood sample (EDTA tube), extracted DNA, or one drop of blood on an FTA card.
MethodologyNext Generation Sequencing (NGS) analysis of the TACO1 gene.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test specifically analyzes the TACO1 gene. It may not detect mutations in other genes associated with Leigh syndrome or mitochondrial disorders. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
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

Leigh syndrome is a severe neurological disorder that usually becomes apparent in the first year of life. It affects the central nervous system and can cause various symptoms.
This test looks for specific genetic mutations in the TACO1 gene, which can cause a type of Leigh syndrome related to mitochondrial complex IV deficiency.
Individuals showing symptoms of Leigh syndrome, such as developmental delays or loss of motor skills, and those with a family history of the condition should consider this test.
A healthcare professional, often a geneticist or neurologist, will interpret the results and discuss their implications with you.
A blood sample, extracted DNA, or a single drop of blood on a special card (FTA card) is required.
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.

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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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