SERVICES
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) Introgression Typing
The mtDNA introgression assay is designed to detect the presence of domestic cattle mitochondrial DNA in bison or other wild bovids. The assay was developed in our laboratory and has been published (Ward et al. 1999).
Nuclear Introgression Typing
The nuclear introgression assay is based on a panel of 14 nuclear microsatellite markers designed to detect the presence of domestic cattle DNA (alleles) in bison. The assay was developed in our laboratory and has been published (Halbert et al. 2005). This assay is designed to detect low levels of domestic cattle DNA when large numbers of individuals (more than 100 from a given population) are evaluated. For a given individual from a population/herd, however, this assay will only detect low levels (0.5%) of introgression (domestic cattle DNA) about 6.8% of the time (see publication for more information). That is, we cannot PROVE that introgression does not exist for a given individual using this assay. However, if domestic cattle DNA (alleles) are detected for an individual bison, we have a very high level of confidence that the bison in question has domestic cattle ancestry.
Parentage Evaluation
The parentage assay is based on a panel of 11-15 nuclear microsatellite markers which are distinct from those using in the nuclear introgression panel. This assay was developed in our laboratory for use in bison and domestic cattle, and has been published (Schnabel et al. 2000). With this assay, we can determine the probability that a given individual (sire or dam) produced the offspring in question. Pricing differs based on whether a sample from the known dam is provided (preferred, but not required).
Single Nucleotide Polymorphic (SNP) Analysis
Coming Soon!
Download the Bison DNA Testing Service Sheet
How to Collect the Blood and Hair Samples (PDF)
PRICING
- Pricing can be negotiated downward for a large number of samples and FTA cards.
| Standard services | # samples | Price | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) | 1 to 99 | $15 per sample | Determine if individual has domestic cattle or bison mtDNA |
| Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) | 100+ | $12 per hair, $10 per FTA sample |
Determine if individual has domestic cattle or bison mtDNA |
| Nuclear Microsatellite testing (14 loci) | 1 to 99 | $40 per sample | For evidence of domestic cattle introgression |
| Nuclear Microsatellite testing (14 loci) | 100+ | $30 per sample | For evidence of domestic cattle introgression |
| Parentage, DNA fingerprinting and Ancestry Testing | 1 to 99 | $40 per sample | |
| Parentage, DNA fingerprinting and Ancestry Testing | 100+ | $30 per sample | |
| All three of the above tests | 1 to 99 | $75 per sample | |
| All three of the above tests | 100+ | $65 per sample |
SUBMITTING SAMPLES
DIRECT SUBMISSION
Samples can be dropped off directly in VMR 226.
SHIPPING
Please ensure that all samples are clearly labeled and sealed securely.
Regular mail:
Department of Veterinary Pathobiology
ATTN: Derr Lab
4467 TAMU
College Station, TX 77843-4467
FedEx:
Texas Agrilife Research
ATTN: Derr Lab
Rm 215 VMS BLDG
College Station, TX 77843-0001