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Multi-Omic Studies with Sequential At Sequential, our mission has always been clear: to understand the impact of the microbiome on humans and how humans impact the microbiome in order to characterize human health fully. Our Multi-Omic Studies brings us back to the core of our mission by offering an unparalleled approach to skin health research. By combining human and microbial analysis, Sequential is setting a new standard in clinical testing. This comprehensive methodology enables us to unlock deeper insights into the complex interplay between the microbiome and human biology, offering more tailored and effective product assessments for our partners in personal care and the pharmaceutical industries. Start Your Multi-Omic Study Today! *Hover over the diagram to unlock each area that we explore! Identify key genetic markers linked to health, aging, and disease susceptibility Predict responsiveness to product SNP Detection & Risk Assessment Gene Expression Profile Uncover how genes are activated in response to lifestyle, environment, and treatments The effect of product on skin-related gene expression Protein Profiling Analyse protein biomarkers to track biological changes and optimise product efficacy Measure skin protein production after a product treatment Lipid Profiling Investigate lipid composition for insights into skin barrier function and metabolic health Assess how a product restores lipid homeostasis qPCR Sequencing Investigate the absolute quantification of key microbes in any sample Assess how a product impacts the most significant bacteria in a sample Metatranscriptomics Uncover how genes are activated in response to lifestyle, environment, & treatments. The effect of product on skin-related microbial gene expression ITS Sequencing Investigate all present fungi in any given sample Understand how a product impacts the skin's fungal community Shotgun Metagenomics Investigate all present microorganisms in any given sample Understand how a product impacts the skin's bacteria, fungal and viral communities 16S Sequencing Investigate all present bacteria in any given sample Understand how a product impacts the skin's bacterial community Metabolomics Map metabolic pathways to assess skin and body health, aging, and personalized wellness. Metabolic shift pre- and post-product application Why Multi-Omic Testing? Understanding how products impact both the human body and its microbiome is essential for creating truly effective solutions. Our multi-omic approach provides: Deeper Insights – See how products influence human health at a biological level Clinically Validated Science – Data-backed results to support claims and innovation Personalized Health & Wellness – Create tailored products that optimize skin and body health Scalable & Flexible Testing – In-lab or remote studies with diverse sample collection options Microbiome's Impact on Human Health The Bright Side of Skincare: How LEDs Influence Microbial Balance With LED face masks and light-based skincare rapidly increasing in popularity, light has become a new frontier in skin health. Previously seen as a threat and something that we needed to block or avoid, light is now being seen as therapeutic tool. Yet beyond the visible changes to tone and texture, light also interacts with the skin microbiome. Understanding how different wavelengths influence this ecosystem is key to ensuring that light enhances, rather than harms, our skin’ How Pregnancy and Postpartum Transform the Skin Microbiome During pregnancy, the skin microbiome undergoes significant shifts. Across the trimesters, both the composition and behaviour of skin bacteria change. Postpartum, the maternal skin microbiome continues to evolve which is influenced by hormonal resets, environmental exposures, and hygiene practices. These shifts can also influence an infant’s earliest microbial encounters, during a critical period of skin development. What We Know: Pregnancy significantly changes the skin mic Understanding the Microbial Roots of Seborrheic Dermatitis Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a common inflammatory skin condition primarily affecting the scalp, face and chest. It appears as red, flaky, greasy patches or plaques and can cause itching and discomfort. It is a non-contagious condition varying in severity, from mild dandruff to persistent inflamed lesions. What we know: SD is linked to three main factors: increased sebum (oil) production, colonization by Malassezia yeast, and an abnormal immune response. Genetics, skin barr Your Muti-Omics Questions Answered What is multi-omic testing, and why is it important? Multi-omic testing integrates multiple layers of biological data—including genomics, metabolomics, proteomics, and microbiome science—to provide a more comprehensive understanding of how products impact both the human body and its microbiome. This approach goes beyond traditional microbiome testing, helping brands develop more effective, scientifically backed solutions. How does Sequential’s multi-omic approach differ from traditional microbiome testing? Most microbiome studies focus only on bacterial composition. At Sequential, we go further by analyzing: Human gene expression to understand how a product influences skin health at the molecular level Metabolomics & lipid profiling to track changes in skin health and barrier function Protein profiling to measure product-driven biological changes Advanced microbiome techniques to assess bacteria, fungi, and viruses collectively This holistic approach ensures deeper insights for product development and claim validation. What can multi-omic testing help me understand about my product? Product effectiveness – See how formulations impact skin and microbiome health Personalized wellness – Identify genetic or metabolic factors that influence individual responses to products Barrier function & hydration – Understand how products restore lipid balance and improve the skin barrier Microbial balance – Determine whether a product supports a healthy microbiome or disrupts it What specific tests does Sequential offer under multi-omic analysis? Human Health Insights SNP Detection & Risk Assessment – Identifies genetic markers related to aging, disease risk, and product responsiveness Metabolomics – Maps metabolic pathways to track skin and body health before and after product use Human Gene Expression – Determines how genes react to lifestyle, environmental factors, and treatments Protein Profiling – Measures skin protein production to optimize product efficacy Lipid Profiling – Assesses lipid composition for insights into skin barrier health Microbiome Science & Testing Smart Probes™ qPCR – Tracks 20 key microbes to measure microbiome shifts after product use Microbial Profiling (16S & ITS) – Identifies all bacteria and fungi in a sample Microbial Gene Expression (Metatranscriptomics) – Evaluates how microbes react to environmental factors and treatments Shotgun Metagenomics – Provides a complete profile of bacteria, fungi, and viruses in any sample

Collect high-quality skin samples with Sequential Patch. A non-invasive solution for microbiome, biomarker, and clinical skin studies. Non-invasive human sample collection system Improve your sample quality Complete, high-quality human samples in just 10 seconds. Our collection system is engineered for simplicity and consistency, enabling participants to self-collect complete skin samples in seconds with minimal training. Designed to perform reliably across both clinical and consumer settings, it supports scalable study designs while maintaining high data integrity from every sample. Higher-resolution data, without added complexity. Up to 3× more biomass than traditional swabs Consistently outperforms the swabbing and tape strip method for skin sampling Clinically tested on 7 Unique Body Sites Flexible collection, designed for any study model The Sequential Patch is designed to support both decentralized and in-clinic study designs, adapting to the needs of each project without compromising data quality. Whether integrated into fully remote studies, CRO-led trials, or conducted within our own facilities, our collection system ensures consistent, high-quality sampling across all environments. Designed for high-quality, real-world sample collection Up to 3× more biomass than swabs for microbiome analysis 10-second, non-invasive collection suitable for remote and in-clinic use Room temperature stability for simple logistics and global shipping Externally validated across multiple clinical studies Tested across 7 body sites for broad dermatological application

Acne affects nearly 85% of people between the ages of 12 and 24, with millions worldwide continuing to struggle with breakouts into adulthood (American Academy of Dermatology). TARGETED SKIN PANEL Acne Targeted Panel 23 Smart Probes ™ Acne Panel Validated targets: Cutibacterium acnes acnes (subtype I) Cutibacterium acnes defendens (subtype II), Cutibacterium acnes elongatum (subtype III) Absolute Quantification End-to-end Service Qet a Quote Unlock the Secrets of Acne with Sequential's Cutting-Edge Microbiome Testing Why Microbiome Testing for Acne? Acne affects nearly 85% of people between the ages of 12 and 24, with millions worldwide continuing to struggle with breakouts into adulthood (American Academy of Dermatology). While many individuals turn to over-the-counter products in hopes of finding relief, the reality is that many of these formulations can exacerbate the problem. Without proper testing, products may contain ingredients that disrupt the delicate balance of the skin, leading to irritation, clogged pores, and even more severe acne. Acne isn’t just skin-deep — it’s driven by a delicate balance of microorganisms on the skin. As skincare companies race to meet demand, a lack of microbiome-focused testing means many products fail to address the root microbial causes of acne. Sequential is leading the way in microbiome testing for the industry. With a specialized focus on skin conditions, we have developed an innovative solution tailored to help you understand the root causes of acne at the microbial level. Our proprietary sequencing panel is designed specifically to offer in-depth analysis of acne-associated microbiota, giving you the tools to transform skincare solutions. Customized Analysis Tailored insights specific to acne-prone skin, allowing your R&D team to develop more personalized and effective products. Actionable Data Leverage detailed reports to guide formulation decisions and validate product efficacy with precision. Product Innovation New acne treatments or enhancing existing lines, our data helps you create targeted solutions with proven results. Precision Sequencing Target specific microbial communities associated with acne development and severity. Smart Probe s ™ Our dedicated team of scientists has developed a groundbreaking method for evaluating microbes through our Smart Probes™, a proprietary panel featuring 23 key microbes specifically identified as having the greatest impact on skin health. To further explore the intricate connection between acne and the skin microbiome, we employ qPCR technology. This cutting-edge technique allows us to precisely measure microbial populations on the skin, providing a clearer understanding of how imbalances in the microbiome can contribute to acne breakouts. By carefully analyzing how skincare products interact with both beneficial and acne-causing microbes, companies can create solutions that not only target acne symptoms but also support a healthier, balanced skin microbiome, promoting clearer and more resilient skin. Acne Panel Targets Cutibacterium acnes acnes (Subtype I) Cutibacterium acnes subtype I is a specific strain of the C. acnes bacterium commonly found within sebaceous (oil) glands. This bacterium plays a key role in maintaining skin health by breaking down sebum, and producing fatty acids that prevent harmful pathogens from colonizing. However, certain strains of subtype I are associated with inflammatory conditions like acne vulgaris. While typically harmless, its overgrowth or imbalance in the skin microbiome can trigger immune responses that lead to acne and other skin issues. Spittaels KJ, Ongena R, Zouboulis CC, Crabbé A, Coenye T. Cutibacterium acnes Phylotype I and II Strains Interact Differently With Human Skin Cells. Front Cell Infect Microbiol. 2020 Nov 16;10:575164. doi: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.575164. PMID: 33330124; PMCID: PMC7717938. Cutibacterium acnes defendens (Subtype II) Cutibacterium acnes subtype II is a strain of the C. acnes bacterium, distinct from subtype I, and is found on human skin, primarily in sebaceous areas. While it shares similarities with other subtypes in maintaining skin health by metabolizing sebum, subtype II is less commonly associated with acne development. It has been linked more to opportunistic infections and medical device-related infections rather than inflammatory acne. Subtype II is typically less inflammatory than subtype I and plays a different role in the skin's microbial balance. Cobian N, Garlet A, Hidalgo-Cantabrana C, Barrangou R. Comparative Genomic Analyses and CRISPR-Cas Characterization of Cutibacterium acnes Provide Insights Into Genetic Diversity and Typing Applications. Front Microbiol. 2021 Nov 3;12:758749. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.758749. PMID: 34803983; PMCID: PMC8595920. Cutibacterium acnes elongatum (Subtype III) Cutibacterium acnes subtype III is a less common strain of the C. acnes bacterium, primarily found in deeper skin layers and associated more with opportunistic infections rather than acne. Unlike subtypes I and II, which are typically found on the skin's surface and sebaceous areas, subtype III is linked to post-surgical infections, particularly around medical implants, and is less involved in acne formation. It tends to have lower inflammatory potential, distinguishing it from other C. acnes subtypes in terms of both location and clinical relevance. Dagnelie MA, Khammari A, Dréno B, Corvec S. Cutibacterium acnes molecular typing: time to standardize the method. Clin Microbiol Infect. 2018 Nov;24(11):1149-1155. doi: 10.1016/j.cmi.2018.03.010. Epub 2018 Mar 12. PMID: 29544912. Industry Leader in Absolute Quantification Sequential’s Smart Probe ™ qPCR approach to microbiome analysis can resolve species and subspecies, giving statistically significant findings between skin conditions on in vivo human samples, compared to conventional sequencing approaches. Relevant Research Acne & The Skin Microbiome? Unveiling Nature's Acne Assassin: The Power of Essential Oils Benzoyl Peroxide & the Skin Microbiome Read More Articles

< Back Sales Associate (NYC Based) New York, NY, USA Job Type Full-time Workspace Hybrid About the Role As a Sales Associate at Sequential, you will be essential in building relationships and expanding our reach within the personal care and dermocosmetic industry. Your role will involve supporting business development efforts, assisting in sales strategy execution, and helping grow market share for Sequential’s innovative products and services. You will work closely with the Commercial Director and team to meet sales goals, develop client relationships, and contribute to Sequential’s mission of advancing microbiome science. This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious sales professional to gain hands-on experience and make a tangible impact in a rapidly growing biotech field. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Sales Support and Development: Assist in the identification and acquisition of new customer accounts, supporting the growth of Sequential’s client base. Client Relationship Building: Cultivate relationships with existing and prospective clients, focusing on understanding their needs and promoting Sequential’s unique offerings. Market Research: Conduct ongoing research to stay informed on industry trends and competitor activity, providing valuable insights for sales strategies. CRM and Data Management: Maintain accurate records in our CRM (HubSpot), tracking interactions, progress, and key performance indicators. Sales Target Achievement: Work towards defined sales goals, contributing to Sequential’s revenue targets and growth ambitions. Collaborative Efforts: Work closely with marketing, product, and operations teams to align efforts and ensure a seamless customer experience. Product Knowledge Development: Stay up-to-date on Sequential’s product offerings and the latest microbiome research to effectively communicate value to clients. Qualifications and Experience: 1-2 years of sales experience, ideally within the biotechnology, cosmetics, or life sciences fields. Familiarity with CRM systems, preferably HubSpot, and the ability to manage data with accuracy. Strong written and verbal communication skills with a passion for client interaction and customer service. Tech-savvy and eager to leverage technology to enhance sales effectiveness. Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences, Business, or a related field preferred; demonstrated interest in microbiome or biotechnology is a plus. Motivated self-starter with a goal-oriented mindset and excellent organizational skills. Ability to work collaboratively and adapt in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. What You Get from Us: A base salary with a commission structure that rewards your hard work and success. Access to our Equity Incentive Plan, allowing you to grow alongside Sequential as we expand. The chance to work with industry experts in one of the fastest-growing sectors within biotechnology. Be part of a company at the forefront of microbiome research, making an impact in the personal care and dermocosmetic fields. About the Company Sequential is a global leader in the skin microbiome field, a team of PhD experts in testing products and their effect on the human microbiome (skin, scalp, oral, vulva). An Innovate UK- and Enterprise Singapore-backed company, with labs in London, New York City and Singapore. Awarded the title "Most Significant" Testing Solution in the Industry - (C&T, 2022). To date, Sequential has amassed over 25,000 human skin microbiome samples and corresponding formulations tested in vivo on the skin. With this vast genomic dataset, Sequential are figuring out optimal formulations that could potentially alleviate skin conditions, for example – acne, atopic dermatitis and rosacea. They have been supported by Innovate UK, Enterprise SG, A*STAR (Genome Institute of Singapore). They have raised $5MM USD to date from SOSV, Metaplanet, Scrum Ventures, Corundum Systems Biology and are a resident company of JLABS Innovation (in NYC). Apply Now

What are the Best Microbiome Tests? What are the Best Microbiome Tests? As interest in the human microbiome grows, various microbiome tests have emerged, each offering unique insights into our health. Understanding which tests are best suited for individual needs can help inform decisions regarding health management and lifestyle changes. Skin Microbiome Testing Skin microbiome testing involves collecting samples from the skin's surface using methods like swabs, tape strips, or skin scrapings to analyse the diversity and composition of microorganisms residing on the skin. The samples are then processed through DNA sequencing techniques to identify microbial species and their relative abundance. This testing provides insights into how the skin's microbial ecosystem impacts health conditions such as acne and eczema. Skin microbiome research is increasingly being used to develop personalised skincare products and therapeutic approaches. (Byrd et al., 2018) Stool Microbiome Testing Stool testing remains one of the most common and accessible methods for analysing the gut microbiome. These tests evaluate the diversity and abundance of microbial species, helping to identify imbalances linked to conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and obesity. A study by Zhernakova et al. (2016) emphasises the utility of stool microbiome tests in detecting dysbiosis and understanding its relationship to health outcomes. Saliva Microbiome Testing Saliva microbiome testing is another non-invasive method, focusing on the oral microbiota. This test can provide insights into oral health, periodontal disease, and even systemic health conditions linked to the oral microbiome. A study by Aas et al. (2005) illustrates that the oral microbiome reflects changes in health status, making saliva testing an essential tool for early disease detection. Blood Microbiome Testing While less common, blood microbiome testing is gaining traction, especially for identifying systemic infections or chronic conditions. This testing method analyses microbial DNA present in the bloodstream, which can reveal insights into conditions like sepsis and cardiovascular diseases. A paper by Cheng et al. (2023) reviews the emerging concept of the blood microbiome, highlighting its potential role in human health and disease, while addressing existing controversies and the need for further research to understand its clinical implications. Tissue Biopsy Microbiome Testing Tissue biopsies are increasingly utilised for studying the microbiome within specific organs, particularly the gastrointestinal tract. This method allows for direct analysis of microbial communities in tissue samples, providing insights into diseases such as colorectal cancer and IBD. Recent advancements in next-generation sequencing have enhanced the ability to identify and characterise microbial populations in biopsies, as noted by Schulfer and Blaser (2015). Conclusion Choosing the right microbiome test depends on individual health concerns and goals. Stool and saliva tests are excellent for general gut and oral health insights, while blood and tissue tests offer deeper analysis for chronic diseases. As research continues to evolve, these tests will likely become even more integral to personalised healthcare and preventative strategies. References Aas, J. A., Paster, B. J., Stokes, L. N., Olsen, I., & Dewhirst, F. E. (2005). Defining the normal bacterial flora of the oral cavity. Journal of Clinical Microbiology, 43(11), 5721-5732. https://doi.org/10.1128/JCM.43.11.5721-5732.2005 Byrd, A. L., Belkaid, Y., & Segre, J. A. (2018). The human skin microbiome. Nature Reviews Microbiology, 16(3), 143-155. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrmicro.2017.157 Cheng, H. S., Tan, S. P., Wong, D. M. K., Koo, W. L. Y., Wong, S. H., & Tan, N. S. (2023). The blood microbiome and health: Current evidence, controversies, and challenges. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(6), 5633. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24065633 Schulfer, A., & Blaser, M. J. (2015). Risks of antibiotic exposures early in life on the developing microbiome. PLoS Pathogens, 11(7), e1004903. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.ppat.1004903 Zhernakova, A., Kurilshikov, A., Bonder, M. J., Tigchelaar, E. F., Schirmer, M., Vatanen, T., ... & Wijmenga, C. (2016). Population-based metagenomics analysis reveals markers for gut microbiome composition and diversity. Science, 352(6285), 565-569. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.aad3369

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Biomarker-driven clinical evaluation for dermatological therapeutics. Validated assays, targeted recruitment, and reproducible study design. Prove therapeutic efficacy with biomarker-driven clinical evidence Human Clinical Testing | Biomarker Discovery | Specialised Recruitment As a specialised CRO for dermatological therapeutics, we go beyond traditional study execution, delivering biomarker-driven clinical evaluation through validated assays, condition-specific expertise, and rigorous, reproducible methodologies. Design your clinical evaluation In dermatology, demonstrating safety and efficacy is essential, but often limited by how studies are designed and measured. Many studies rely on broad clinical endpoints or insufficient biomarker depth, making it difficult to: link outcomes to underlying biological mechanisms ensure data is physiologically relevant and reproducible generate evidence that meets increasing scientific and regulatory expectations Without a robust study design, validated assays, and appropriate candidate selection, even strong formulations risk producing incomplete or inconclusive data. We offer clinical evaluation, grounded in biology Sequential provides biomarker-driven clinical evaluation for dermatological therapeutics, combining human biomarker profiling, microbiome sequencing, and validated clinical endpoints. By connecting clinical outcomes with underlying biological pathways, we ensure data is biologically meaningful, reproducible, and generated under SOP-controlled conditions. Leveraging extensive internal datasets and condition-specific validated assays, we deliver high-quality, physiologically relevant data suitable for clinical development and regulatory use. The gap between clinical testing and biological understanding Deep experience across key dermatological indications, including acne, atopic dermatitis, rosacea, and ageing-related skin changes. Condition-specific expertise Validated assays & panels SOP-backed, physiologically relevant assays designed for reproducibility, biological meaning, and regulatory alignment. Specialised recruitment Structured participant screening and standardized, non-invasive collection methods to ensure data integrity and scalable study execution. A rigorous, end-to-end clinical framework 1 Study Protocols & Design We collaborate with clients to develop study protocols tailored to their objectives and endpoints 2 Specialized Recruitment We can recruit ethnically diverse participants globally using GDPR-compliant, IRB-approved protocols to deliver timely, meaningful results for targeted populations. Our studies are conducted across three clinical testing facilities in New York, Cambridge (UK), and Singapore. 3 Non-Invasive Collection We ensure standardised, non-invasive sampling with clinically validated systems, delivering reproducible, globally consistent, and statistically robust data. Results Recruitment 4 Biomarker Discovery In our laboratory, samples undergo stringent processing to generate high-quality data using multi-omics technologies. We capture host and microbial responses from skin sites. 6 Biomarker Packages We design specialised biomarker packages informed by in-depth skin science, delivering relevant, quantifiable data to support therapeutic validation and product development. 5 Analysis & Reporting All data analysis and reporting are handled in-house, using controlled pipelines to transform complex multi-omics and sequencing datasets into actionable insights linked to customer endpoints, supporting therapeutic development and mechanistic understanding. Results Sequential Patch Results Multi-Omics Results Packages

Taking a microbiome sample for the purpose of gene expression.

Full End-To-End Testing Platform From study design and participant recruitment to laboratory analysis and data interpretation, Sequential delivers an end-to-end, in-house solution for understanding how products interact in real use cases. Our clinically relevant insights translate complex microbial and molecular data into clear, actionable outcomes empowering companies to develop products that are credible, effective, and trusted by consumers. Consultation & Study Design We collaborate with each client to create customised study protocols that align with specific objectives and ensure scientific precision. Clinically Validated Collection Our non-invasive collection system delivers consistent, high-quality samples and enables remote testing when needed. In-house Analysis & Reporting All analysis is performed in-house, ensuring speed, consistency, and direct access to our scientific and formulation experts. Candidate Recruitment Human participants are carefully selected by age, location, and other criteria to ensure relevant, accurate results. Multi-Omics Detection We combine microbiome sequencing, multi-omics technologies, and biophysical assessments to deliver a complete picture of skin health and product impact. Clinically Backed Results Our scientifically grounded reports transform complex data into claim-ready insights, empowering confident communication.

Test active ingredients in real-world formulations. Generate clinical evidence, assess dose-response, and support claim development. Prove the efficacy of your active ingredient on real skin CLINICAL TESTING DESIGNED TO VALIDATE PERFORMANCE We help ingredient manufacturers generate robust, clinically relevant evidence by testing actives within controlled formulations, delivering clear insight into biological impact and optimal performance. Design a validation study Ingredient testing, designed for real-world application Sequential evaluates active ingredients within controlled base formulations, ensuring results reflect how ingredients perform on human skin. We design studies to isolate and quantify ingredient impact through two core approaches: Active vs control formulations Assess the biological effect of an ingredient against a matched base formulation. Dose-response evaluation Compare different concentrations of the same active to determine optimal performance and efficacy thresholds. By integrating biomarker profiling, microbiome analysis, and clinically relevant endpoints, we generate clear, reproducible insight into ingredient activity. The challenge of validating ingredient performance Demonstrating the efficacy of a novel ingredient is rarely straightforward. Raw actives cannot be meaningfully tested in isolation, yet many studies fail to reflect real-world use within formulations, limiting the relevance of results. Without a structured, comparative study design, it becomes difficult to: isolate the true impact of an ingredient understand dose-response relationships generate credible, claim-ready evidence ingredient impact Understand the true biological effect of your active within a controlled formulation environment. Dose-response clarity Determine optimal concentration ranges through structured comparative study design. Claim-ready evidence Generate robust, biomarker-driven data to support technical documentation and commercial claims.

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Certify your skincare product with us! Maximise microbiome benefits in your strategy. Let's start today for success! Skin Microbiome Testing As the skincare industry grows, consumers demand transparency from the brands formulating their products. It has become essential for formulators to create products they are willing to test to present scientifically backed data-driven evidence of their products' true effects. Sequential offers microbiome testing for your skincare formulations, ranging from moisturizers, serums, cleansers, SPF products, etc. We are dedicated to understanding how your product interacts with the skin and its microbes. Depending on how in-depth you want to go, we offer qPCR, 16S, ITS, and Shotgun Metagenomics. Download Case Study! Personalized Approach to Testing Unlike other methodologies present within the industry, Sequential's approach ensures that your product's data and analysis will stand the test of industry regulations when they are introduced. You can tailor your study entirely to your unique requirements. Test Products in a Real-Life Context The microbiome comprises a complex ecosystem of microorganisms that live together in a delicate balance, which is why it's best to test directly upon it directly. To fully understand the impact a product is having on the microbiome, in vivo is the only way. Collect Longitudinal Data With in vivo testing we can design your study around the extended use of a product over multiple time points. This allows us to review how a product is performing before and after usage, but also take into account its gradual impact on the microbiome. Measure Against a Control Group Measure a product against a control group that might have a different percentage of your active ingredient within its formulation or no active at all. This will allow for deeper insights into the impact of a formulation on microbial balance and diversity. 4 Sequencing Reports To Pick From Depending on your development stage and what you are interested in studying we offer qPCR, 16S, ITS, and Shotgun Metagenomics. With our qPCR Smart Probes™ we can go down to the strain level in our analysis. Personalize Your Microbiome Study! The body's skin surface consists of the largest organ within the human body, hosting trillions of microbes (bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc.). These microbes protect the body from external forces, playing a key role in systemic human health. Clinically Validated Collection System In addition to skin swabs, at Sequential we have developed another strong innovation to collect reliable, reproducible, and straight forward skin samples - making it that much easier to do remote consumer and clinical studies. - Validated with external parties for DNA and RNA collection, both from microbial and host cells. - Published in peer-reviewed journals, showing ease of collection and adoption for clinical studies in a range of studies. -Clinically tested on 7 unique body sites. Smart Probe s ™ Our dedicated team of scientists have developed a method of evaluating microbes through our Smart Probes™. These refer to a panel of 20 key microbes we have specifically identified as having the most impact on skin health. Over and above the taxonomic characterisation that 16S offers, which gives us a snapshot of all the genus present within a collected sample (Cutibacterium, Staphyloccocus, etc.) our targeted approach takes it a step further, opening the lens to the species (C. acnes ), sub-species (C. acnes defendens ) and even strains within them. This is a crucial distinction as not all strains of a species behave similarly. In Fact, we find that within these species there are strains associated with inflammation and strains that are commensal, and beneficial. Gold Standard Certification Sequential has developed the gold standard test for products designed to target the microbiome, in vivo (in, or on, humans). Finally, we can give some certainty about if a product is truly affecting the microbiome. Using next-generation sequencing of the collection of micro-organisms found on the body, before and after product usage, Sequential investigates the microbial balance and diversity, and particular micro-organisms we know are important and play a role in a healthy microbiome. We give you an in vivo certification that your product maintains the microbiome. And it’s not exclusive to skincare! We do this for haircare products, oral products, and vulva/vaginal microbiomes. Personalize Your Microbiome Study! Supplement Your Microbiome Study Recruitment Services Let us take care of the entire candidate recruitment process for you! View More Biophysical Assessments Increase your data on the use of your product by evaluating additional biophysical factors. View More Formulation Support Seek consultation advice for your formulation if you are re-formulating or developing a new product. View More FAQ What is Sequential's testing platform? Sequential has developed the gold standard test for microbiome-friendly products, in vivo (in, or on, humans). Finally, we can give some certainty about if a product is truly affecting the microbiome. We offer a complete end-to-end solution to support microbiome-friendly claims. From consultancy and study design to our proprietary microbiome testing kits. We analyse, interpret and report our findings to meet your needs. Why is it necessary to test the microbiome in vivo? At present, there are no regulations for microbiome-related formulas that brands and formulators can follow, however, it has been universally acknowledged that the in vivo method of conducting clinical studies is becoming critical and paramount to getting marketing claims through. When regulations are introduced, which may be imminent, the in vitro system will find itself lacking, resulting in limited claims and certifications that do not hold their value. This is why, we at Sequential strive to offer an in vivo approach, knowing full well that we want our client's claims to be significantly backed by scientific and quantifiable data. What type of sequencing technology does Sequential use for analysis? We offer four types of sequencing techniques including qPCR with our Smart Probes™, 16S, ITS and Shotgun Metagenomics. Using next-generation sequencing of the collection of microorganisms found on the body, during product usage, Sequential investigates the microbial diversity, and particular microorganisms we know are important and play a role in a healthy microbiome. Does Sequential offer claims certification for tested products? We provide our clients with a certification to claim “Maintains the Microbiome” subject to in vivo testing results which can be used in communication efforts. Once your product is tested with our qPCR Smart Probes™ and has shown favourable results in supporting the microbiome, we can certify your product with our Maintains the Microbiome certification seal. We have ensured that our seal and certification are backed by quantifiable data and scientifically significant markers. The aim is to ensure our clients feel confident in making their claims and can communicate the true benefit of their microbiome formulations.