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Molecular Cytogenetics and Genomics Laboratory

Mission

We seek to understand the genomic and cellular factors that contribute to devastating diseases, genetic disorders, and important traits of interest in domestic and wild animals.

Molecular Cytogenetics and Genomics Laboratory

Overview

The Molecular Cytogenetics and Genomics Laboratory at Texas A&M University serves three primary roles: (1) Conduct diverse research initiatives in cytogenetics, genomics, and functional genetics focusing on diseases, important phenotypes of domestic animals and conservation genetics of endangered species. (2) Educate and train undergraduate and graduate students, visiting scientists, and veterinarians. (3) Perform a wide range of cytogenetic, molecular, and DNA-based testing for clinical and research facilities, private companies, veterinarians, breeders, and animal owners. For chromosome analysis we use both traditional and state-of-the-art techniques, and carry out tests for all domestic animals and a broad range of wild species. Analyses are done either for a fee or on a collaborative basis.

Services Available:

Karyotyping Genotyping

Karyotyping

Genotyping

Sequencing FISH

Sequencing

FISH

Species ID Individual and Gender ID

Species ID - service will be available soon

Individual and Gender ID - service will be available soon

Type of Analyses Included in Service

  • Karyotyping (with routine staining or G-banding of chromosomes)
  • Molecular cytogenetic analysis using Fluorescence in situ Hybridization (FISH)
  • DNA sequencing using BigDye chemistry and capillary technology (ABI 3730)
  • Genotyping (ABI 3730).

Services that will be available in the near future:

  • Species identification of carnivore scat
  • Individual and gender identification of scats for select species (including snow leopard, tiger, jaguar, lion, leopard, ocelot, bobcat, mountain lion)

Personnel

Students

  • Jana Caldwell, PhD Student
  • Priyanka Kachroo, PhD Student
  • Felipe Avila, PhD Student
  • Sharmila Gosh, PhD Student
  • Erica Fang, Masters Student
  • Lauren Cobbler, Undergraduate student
  • Yvette Halley, Undergraduate student
  • Emilee Larkin, Undergraduate student
Molecular Cytogenetics and Genomics Laboratory