A Literature Review: Effectivity and Efficacy of Whole Genome Sequencing in predicting Mycobacterium tuberculosis Drug Resistance in Indonesia

Authors

  • Nurul Widyawati Bhakti Wiyata Institute of Health Sciences Author
  • Ronald Aprianto Parubak Bhakti Wiyata Institute of health Science Author https://orcid.org/0009-0007-0016-3394
  • Ida Rizqa Nuraini Bhakti Wiyata Institute of health Science Author https://orcid.org/0009-0000-6413-5113
  • henny Tantono Bhakti Wiyata Institute of health Science Author
  • ketut suhendro Bhakti Wiyata Institute of health Science Author
  • jeremy sebastian Bhakti Wiyata Institute of health Science Author
  • rina puspasari suryana Bhakti Wiyata Institute of health Science Author
  • Indra Fauzi Sabban Bhakti Wiyata Institute of health Science Author
  • Sri Wahyuni Bhakti Wiyata Institute of health Science Author

Keywords:

tuberculosis, whole genome sequencing, drug resistance, Mycobacterium , Indonesia

Abstract

Abstract

Purpose: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health problem in Indonesia, particularly due to the increasing burden of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB). Rapid and accurate detection of drug resistance is crucial to improve treatment outcomes and limit transmission. This literature review aims to evaluate the effectiveness and efficacy of whole genome sequencing (WGS) in predicting Mycobacterium tuberculosis drug resistance in Indonesia.

Methods: A literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Science Direct databases. Keywords included “Mycobacterium tuberculosis,” “drug resistance,” and “whole genome sequencing.” Eligible studies were original research articles, clinical guidelines, and meta-analyses published within the last 10 years, written in English or Bahasa Indonesia, and available in full text. Relevant findings were systematically reviewed and synthesized.

Results: The reviewed literature demonstrates that WGS shows high sensitivity and specificity in detecting resistance to first-line anti-tuberculosis drugs, particularly rifampicin and isoniazid. Compared with conventional phenotypic drug susceptibility testing, WGS offers a significantly shorter diagnostic turnaround time and enables comprehensive identification of resistance-associated genetic mutations. Studies from high- and low-middle-income settings indicate strong concordance between WGS and culture-based methods. However, limitations include high infrastructure requirements, the need for bioinformatics expertise, and reduced predictive accuracy for some second-line drugs.

Conclusion: Whole genome sequencing is an effective and promising tool for predicting drug-resistant TB and has the potential to strengthen TB control strategies in Indonesia. Targeted investment, capacity building, and integration with existing diagnostic systems are required to support its broader implementation and contribution to the WHO End TB Strategy.

Keywords: tuberculosis, whole genome sequencing, drug resistance, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Indonesia

References

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Published

05-03-2026

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Section

Review Articles