Genomnz™ is New Zealand’s foremost animal DNA testing laboratory. It is the commercial arm of the Animal Genomics Section of AgResearch Limited, and is based at the Invermay Campus near Dunedin. AgResearch is New Zealand’s largest Crown Research Institute (CRI) with acknowledged expertise in biological science. The Animal Genomics Section utilises its core capabilities in genomics to identify genes, ultimately aiming to improve the competitiveness of New Zealand’s sheep, cattle and deer industries.
History
The Deer Blood Typing Service was launched at Invermay in 1988, offering protein-based blood tests, initially for hybrid identification of Elk, and later pedigree verification in deer.
Genomnz™ was established by AgResearch in 1996 and, with the technology change from blood protein typing to DNA profiling, a full deer parentage testing service was developed. Genomnz™ then began providing DNA-based tests to the cattle and sheep industries and has continued to build on the services offered, undertaking DNA parentage analysis to identify and profile animals, and trace pedigrees for breeding programmes, as well as tests for specific genes, such as those associated with disease and fertility.
In recent years, Genomnz™ has extended DNA testing to other industries, including aquaculture. Finfish and shellfish genotyping is now available, along with goat, horse and alpaca. Genomnz™ services are internationally recognised with samples being received from the UK, European Union, Canada, USA, South America, Iceland and Australia.
Today
Genomnz™ now provides the most comprehensive DNA testing service for farmed species in New Zealand and acts as a valuable link from research to industry.
The laboratory employs a team of highly experienced staff and utilises state-of-the-art equipment to ensure the thousands of samples submitted annually are processed accurately, cost effectively and with timely results. AgResearch has also developed sophisticated proprietary software and customised databases which allow for precise parentage analysis and data recording.
The laboratory operates under ISO 17025:2005 standards, ensuring the highest degree of quality.
Genomnz™ also prides itself in offering a level of service customised to meet a particular user’s needs. A number of our cattle gene tests were introduced by customer request and we recently began building a DNA database of verified parentage for the Alpaca Association of New Zealand (AANZ). The team is now working with New Zealand’s burgeoning aquaculture industry, conducting parentage testing on several species of finfish and shellfish in collaboration with NIWA.
Genomnz™ has also undertaken contract research and development work for dairy cattle, finfish, shellfish and plant species. We welcome the opportunity to discuss developing a DNA-based assay or service to suit your requirements. Our capabilities include microsatellite and SNP genotyping and DNA sequencing.