AGTC Genomics and Institute for Medical Research Co-Host Landmark Technical Workshop on 16S Microbiome Analysis

Collaborative initiative bridges genomics expertise with public health research capacity to advance gut microbiome science in Malaysia

AGTC Genomics, a leading Malaysian genomics solutions provider, in collaboration with the Institute for Medical Research (IMR), Malaysia, successfully conducted a specialised Technical Workshop on 16S Microbiome Analysis on 16 June 2025. The workshop brought together researchers, scientists, and bioinformatics specialists to strengthen national capacity in next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based microbiome research.

“This workshop marks a significant step in our commitment to building a robust genomics ecosystem in Malaysia. By partnering with IMR — a cornerstone of Malaysia’s biomedical research landscape — we are equipping our scientists with the tools and knowledge to unlock the clinical and public health potential of microbiome data.” — Chief Executive Officer, AGTC Genomics

Workshop Overview

The one-day intensive programme was designed to provide participants with both theoretical foundations and hands-on practical experience in 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequencing — the gold standard approach for profiling microbial communities in complex biological samples. Sessions covered the full analytical workflow, from sample preparation and DNA extraction best practices to bioinformatics analysis and clinical interpretation of microbiome data.

Key technical topics addressed during the workshop included:

• Fundamentals of 16S rRNA gene sequencing and amplicon-based microbiome profiling

• Library preparation workflows optimised for Illumina NGS platforms

• Quality control metrics and sequencing data assessment

• Bioinformatics pipelines for taxonomic classification and diversity analysis using QIIME2 and DADA2

• Interpretation of alpha and beta diversity indices in health and disease contexts

• Data visualisation strategies and statistical approaches for microbiome datasets

• Regulatory and ethical considerations for human microbiome research in Malaysia

A Strategic Collaboration for National Health Research

The Institute for Medical Research, operating under Malaysia’s Ministry of Health, is the nation’s oldest and most established biomedical research institution. IMR’s deep expertise in infectious diseases, nutritional sciences, and public health research makes it a natural partner for advancing microbiome science with direct clinical relevance.

AGTC Genomics contributed its proprietary bioinformatics infrastructure, end-to-end NGS workflow expertise, and a team of experienced genomics scientists to facilitate the workshop. The collaboration underscores both organisations’ shared commitment to translating genomics innovation into actionable public health insights for the Malaysian population.

Looking Ahead

This workshop is part of a broader strategic initiative between AGTC Genomics and IMR to establish a long-term framework for microbiome research in Malaysia. Both parties have expressed intent to explore further collaborations encompassing joint research studies, co-development of standardised microbiome testing protocols, and potential integration of microbiome diagnostics into clinical research pipelines.

The collaboration also feeds directly into AGTC Genomics’ broader portfolio of gut health initiatives, including ongoing development of microbiome-based diagnostic products targeting Malaysian consumers and the healthcare sector.

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About AGTC Genomics

AGTC Genomics is a Malaysian-based genomics company delivering end-to-end next-generation sequencing solutions, bioinformatics analytics, and molecular diagnostic products. With a focus on clinical genomics, oncology, and microbiome science, AGTC Genomics serves healthcare institutions, research organisations, and industry partners across Malaysia and the broader Southeast Asian region.

About the Institute for Medical Research (IMR)

Established in 1900, the Institute for Medical Research (IMR) is Malaysia’s national biomedical research institute under the Ministry of Health Malaysia. IMR conducts pioneering research in infectious diseases, nutrition, biomedical science, and public health, playing a central role in shaping evidence-based health policy in Malaysia.