Other possibilities for DNA-analyses

Genetic tools for ecological research

Non-invasive DNA samples are sources of DNA that can be collected without harming the animal, such as faeces, hairs and owl pellets. Using non-invasive DNA samples, information that is difficult to obtain through other methods may be collected. Different analyses may be performed on ecological samples. The DNA of for instance martens, foxes, roe deer, bats and owls can be analysed.

Estimation of population sizes

Based on ecological DNA samples, the size of a population may be estimated.

Species detection

For species monitoring, it is possible to determine whether a sample contains DNA of the species of interest. It is possible to identify an animal species based on DNA from faeces, for instance.

Diet analysis

The DNA in an animals’ faeces or pellets may be used to determine which preys species are included in its diet.

Sex determination

In mammals and birds, sexing can be performed using DNA samples.

Disease analysis

Faeces can be used to determine which pathogens an animal carries.

Other research questions

If you have another research question, the researchers at Gendika will investigate the possibilities.

Requesting an analysis

Whether it is possible to answer your research question depends on the available background information on the genetics of your research species. If you would like to request a DNA analysis, please contact Gendika by phone or email (phone number: 0031 (0)598 619343 email: info@gendika.com). Our researchers will inform you about the possibilities for DNA research in your species of interest. Furthermore, Gendika provides material for the collection of DNA samples free of charge; this can be requested through email or through our website.

Plants

Plant breeding traditionally makes use of genetic principles to improve the quality and profit of crops. Using modern DNA-techniques, the genetic basis of plant characteristics may be studied. By using genetic research, a more reliable product of selection may already be obtained in an early stage in the development of the plant.

Advantages of genetic research:

  • Plants may be selected for the desired traits in an early stage, e.g. as a seed or seedling.
  • Plants may be selected on a single trait, while other characteristics are maintained.
  • Genetic selection is reliable, since the influence of external factors is excluded.

Examples of DNA-analyses in plants

  • Developing genetic makers: If DNA-analysis has not previously been used to detect the character you are interested in, Gendika can develop new DNA-markers specific to your question. These markers can then be used to determine whether individual seeds or plants possess a certain desired or undesired trait. -Screening for genetic markers: Large numbers of seeds and plants may be screened for the presence or absence of certain genetic characteristics. Markers specifically developed for the client or standard markers may be used.
  • Screening for genetic markers: Large numbers of seeds and plants may be screened for the presence or absence of certain genetic characteristics. Markers specifically developed for the client or standard markers may be used.
  • Quality control of a batch or product: By analysing genetic similarities between individuals, the uniformity of a batch or product can be determined. This may be applied to: -detecting aberrant individuals in a batch, -detecting genetically modified material within a product, -identifying specific plant varieties

If you are interested in genetic research in plants, please contact Gendika by phone 0031 (0)598 619343 or email (info@gendika.com), so we can inform you about the possibilities for DNA research in your plant species.

 

Microorganisms

DNA-techniques may be used to detect and characterise microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses. These analyses are of importance to perform quality control and for the detection of infections. Furthermore, DNA-techniques can be used to analyse complex microbial communities. Select an item in the submenu to read more about examples of DNA-analyses in microorganisms.

Possibilities for DNA-analyses in microorganisms

DETECTION Using DNA-techniques, the heritable material of microbes can be detected and the presence or absence of specific species of microorganisms can be determined.

  • Potential applications:
    • The detection of specific microorganisms in mixed cultures, environmental DNA samples or food.
    • The detection of PBFD, Polyoma, Pacheco’s disease and Chlamydiosis in bird blood.
    • Tracing the source of microbial infections.


IDENTIFICATION Based on the DNA-sequence of conserved genes, the species to which a microorganism belongs may be determined.

  • Potential applications:
    • Taxonomic analysis of new strains.
    • Confirmation of the microorganism species.


ANALYSIS OF MICROBIAL COMMUNICTIES
Using DNA-techniques, the microbial diversity within a sample may be determined. Furthermore, time- and/or place- dependent changes in the constitution of the microbial community may be demonstrated (bio-monitoring). For more information regarding genetic research in microorganisms, please contact Gendika by phone 0031 (0)598 619343 or email (info@gendika.com).