Information Update and Sample Repetition Policy

Vivabioma's goal is for everyone to have access to deep knowledge of their microbiome from anywhere in the world with an internet-connected device, facilitating the sharing of this data with their trusted health professional. To this end, we have developed an advanced platform that stores, interprets, and updates the obtained biological information.

At Vivabioma, we perform an exhaustive microbiome analysis to obtain information of high clinical and functional value. Our process is based on Shotgun massive sequencing technology (metagenomics), which allows us to accurately identify not only bacteria, but also viruses, fungi, and parasites, in addition to understanding the metabolic functions of your microbial community. We use this cutting-edge technology to guarantee the highest resolution and quality in the analysis, overcoming the limitations of conventional methods.

As microbiome science continues to evolve, we will continue to incorporate the most advanced bioinformatics tools and updated databases to provide accurate information aligned with the latest scientific discoveries.

If you wish to inquire about updates in the processing of your sample or new versions of the analysis, please contact us via email at info@vivabioma.com and we will provide you with the fastest and most effective solution.

Conditions for sample repetition and obtaining results

Vivabioma is committed to delivering accurate and rigorous results to all users. In the vast majority of cases, a single sample is sufficient to complete the metagenomic analysis.

However, on rare occasions it is necessary to obtain a new sample because the concentration of microbial DNA obtained and/or its quality is insufficient and does not meet the minimum quality standards to provide reliable results through Shotgun sequencing. Generally, this is due to incorrect sampling or intrinsic biological factors (recent use of antibiotics, acute infections, or certain gastrointestinal pathologies that alter DNA stability).

If the microbiome extraction and analysis process does not produce valid results on the first attempt, Vivabioma will contact you by email to offer you the option of repeating the sampling, extraction, and analysis free of charge. You also have the option to request a full refund, excluding handling, kit, and shipping costs (€50).

You have a period of 3 months from the receipt of our notification to inform us of your decision. If we do not receive a response within that period, the sample will be considered void and a refund cannot be made nor the process repeated at no additional cost.

Repeating the sampling and analysis a second time does not guarantee that the results will be satisfactory, as there are exceptional cases in which the stabilization of microbial genetic material in the collection kit is not viable for reasons beyond the laboratory's control.

Vivabioma will allow the sample analysis to be repeated up to a maximum of three times. The costs associated with processing the third sample will be borne by the customer. A fourth analysis attempt will not be made; in these cases, the amount paid minus the aforementioned handling and shipping costs will be refunded.

Minimum sample quality criteria

  1. Concentration of obtained microbial DNA ≥ 8ng/μL
  2. Quality of the obtained sample: Q30+
  3. Amount of human DNA <10% of the total sample