Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) Genotyping Test
About Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) Genotyping Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | PAI-1 4G/5G Polymorphism Test, SERPINE1 Genotyping Test, PAI-1 Gene Mutation Test |
| Sample Type | Serum |
| Fasting Required | No |
| Report Time | 15 days |
| Recommended For | Adults of both sexes with a personal or family history of blood clots or cardiovascular events |
| Price | Starting at ₹21,000 |
What is a Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) Genotyping Test?
The Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) Genotyping test is a genetic test that identifies variations in the SERPINE1 gene, which controls the production of the PAI-1 protein. This protein plays a key role in how the body regulates blood clotting.
Doctors order this test for people who have experienced unexplained blood clots or who have a family history of clotting disorders. It is also known as the PAI-1 4G/5G Polymorphism test and the SERPINE1 Genotyping test.
What Does a Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) Genotyping Test Measure?
The Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) Genotyping test looks for a specific change in the SERPINE1 gene called the 4G/5G polymorphism. This is a small difference in the gene's structure that affects how much PAI-1 protein the body produces. The test analyses which variant of the gene a person carries.
Here are the key variants this test identifies:
| Variant | What It Means |
|---|---|
| 4G/5G polymorphism (rs1799889) | A single guanine base insertion or deletion in the promoter region of the SERPINE1 gene |
| 4G allele | Linked to higher PAI-1 protein levels in blood, which may reduce the body's ability to break down clots |
| 5G allele | Associated with lower PAI-1 protein production; people with two copies of this variant have roughly 25% lower PAI-1 levels than those with two copies of the 4G variant |
Why is a Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) Genotyping Test Done?
A doctor may recommend the PAI-1 Genotyping test when there is a concern about a person's genetic risk for blood clotting problems. The reasons can range from personal symptoms to a family history of cardiovascular disease.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The following symptoms are among the most common reasons a doctor may request this test:
- Unexplained blood clots in veins or arteries
- Recurrent deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is clotting in deep veins, usually in the legs
- Pulmonary embolism, a blood clot that travels to the lungs
- Heart attack at a young age with no obvious cause
- Recurrent pregnancy losses without a clear explanation
- Family history of clotting disorders or cardiovascular events
- Suspected thrombophilia, an inherited tendency to form blood clots
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test helps identify a person's genetic risk for several conditions, including:
- Venous thromboembolism (blood clots in veins or lungs)
- Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
- Atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries
- Portal vein thrombosis and Budd-Chiari syndrome (blockage of liver veins), which have been identified as particular concerns for Indian patients with the 4G/4G genotype
- Recurrent spontaneous abortion (repeated pregnancy loss)
- Rare cases of complete PAI-1 deficiency, which can cause mild to moderate delayed bleeding after injury or surgery
How to Prepare and What to Expect
The PAI-1 Genotyping test procedure is straightforward and does not require much preparation. Here is what you need to know before your appointment.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required for this test. You can eat and drink normally before your sample is collected.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
A few simple steps can help ensure a smooth experience:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and family history
- Inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are currently taking
- Genetic counselling and informed consent are recommended before undergoing any genetic test; ask your doctor if you have questions about what the results may mean
- Stay well hydrated before the blood draw, as this makes the process easier
- Carry a valid photo ID and your doctor's prescription
Step-by-Step Procedure
The sample collection for this test follows these steps:
- A trained phlebotomist (blood collection professional) will clean the skin on your inner arm with an antiseptic
- A needle is gently inserted into a vein, and approximately 3 ml of blood is drawn into a yellow-top SST Gel tube
- The sample is labelled carefully with your details to ensure accurate identification
- The sample is stored at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius and dispatched to the laboratory promptly
- At the laboratory, your DNA is analysed using Sanger Sequencing to identify which variant of the SERPINE1 gene you carry
- Results are prepared and delivered within 15 days, typically via email or WhatsApp
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
The following factors may affect the reliability of the test result:
- Rare genetic variations at primer binding sites that could interfere with analysis
- Incorrect labelling or misidentification of specimens during collection
- Using the wrong type of collection tube
- Delayed or improper sample handling after collection
Understanding Your Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) Genotyping Test Results
Because this is a genetic test, results are reported as a genotype rather than a number. Your doctor will review these findings alongside your personal and family medical history.
| Genotype | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 5G/5G | Wild type (normal); associated with lower PAI-1 levels and lower genetic risk for blood clots |
| 4G/5G | Heterozygous; associated with intermediate PAI-1 levels and a mildly increased clotting risk |
| 4G/4G | Homozygous variant; associated with higher PAI-1 levels and a greater genetic risk for thrombotic events |
Disclaimer: This information is a general guide. Your doctor will review your genetic results alongside your age, health history, and other clinical findings. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
Managing Your Cardiovascular and Clotting Risk
While your genetic result cannot be changed, you can take steps to reduce your overall cardiovascular and clotting risk:
- Maintain a healthy weight and stay physically active to support good circulation
- Follow a balanced diet that is low in saturated fats
- Avoid smoking, as it significantly increases the risk of blood clots
Lupin Diagnostics Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) Genotyping Test Price and Home Collection
The Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) Genotyping test is available at Lupin Diagnostics starting at ₹21,000, with home sample collection available across cities.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 21000 |
| CHENNAI | 21000 |
| HYDERABAD | 21000 |
| KOLKATA | 21000 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 21000 |
| PUNE | 21000 |
Disclaimer: Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
Booking your Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) Genotyping test online is simple:
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website
- Choose your city and preferred time slot
- Opt for home sample collection by a certified phlebotomist, or visit your nearest Lupin Diagnostics centre
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time
Home Collection
The Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) Genotyping test home collection service is available across multiple cities in India. All samples are processed in NABL-accredited laboratories by experienced professionals. Your digital report is accessible within 15 days of sample collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) Genotyping test is used to identify a person's genetic risk for blood clotting disorders. It detects a specific variation in the SERPINE1 gene that influences how much PAI-1 protein the body produces, which in turn affects the body's ability to dissolve blood clots.
No, fasting is not required. You can eat and drink as normal before your appointment. However, bring a detailed clinical history and any relevant medical records, as these are required for the test.
Results for the PAI-1 Genotyping test are typically delivered within 15 days of sample collection. Reports are sent digitally via email or WhatsApp.
This is a genetic test, and your genes do not change over time. In most cases, you only need to take this test once. Your doctor may recommend additional tests or clinical monitoring based on your result, but the genotyping test itself is generally not repeated.
Yes. Research from India has found that the 4G/4G genotype is a significant risk factor for abdominal vein thrombosis, particularly portal vein thrombosis and Budd-Chiari syndrome (blockage of liver veins). Doctors evaluating clotting risk in Indian patients often include this test as part of a thrombophilia screening panel.
No, lifestyle changes do not affect your genetic makeup and will not change the result of the PAI-1 Genotyping test. That said, a healthy lifestyle can help manage your overall risk for cardiovascular and clotting-related conditions, regardless of your genotype.
If your result indicates a 4G/4G or 4G/5G genotype, your doctor may refer you to a hematologist (a specialist in blood disorders) or a genetic counsellor. They can help you understand the implications of your result and suggest appropriate next steps based on your full medical history.
Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) Genotyping Test
