Moving Veterinary Diagnostics Forward with Genomics
Our Genomics Laboratory is staffed by a team of experienced diagnostic professionals and technologists and is equipped with an ONT (Oxford Nanopore Technologies) GridION X5 to efficiently manage a wide range of sequencing applications, from individual diagnostic samples to large volumes for research projects.
Diagnostic Sequencing Services
Bacterial Isolate Typing by Sequencing
We offer sequencing-based bacterial isolate characterization with a comprehensive results report that may include:
- Serotyping
- MLST (Multilocus Sequence Typing)
- cgMLST (core genome MLST)
- Virulence factor profiling
- Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) gene detection
Validated analysis pipelines are currently available for:
- Salmonella enterica
- Streptococcus suis
- Glaesserella parasuis
- Mannheimia haemolytica
- Escherichia coli
- Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae
- Histophilus somni
Other bacterial isolates can also be accepted, with custom pipeline development available as needed.
Additional analyses available at extra cost include:
- Whole genome SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms) identification
- Whole genome phylogeny
- Gene presence/absence analysis
- GWAS (Genome Wide Association Studies)
Viral Typing by Amplicon Sequencing
We provide targeted viral typing based on amplicon sequencing for specific genomic regions, including:
- Porcine sapovirus – VP1 sequencing
- Porcine rotavirus A, B, and C – VP7 and VP4 sequencing
- Avian adenovirus – Hexon gene sequencing
- Avian reovirus – Sigma C sequencing
- Infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) – VP2 sequencing
Universal 16S rRNA Metagenomic Sequencing
Universal full-length 16S rRNA-based metagenomic sequencing is available for bacterial community profiling and broad characterization of microbial populations in diagnostic samples.
Targeted Syndromic Sequencing Assays
We offer targeted syndromic sequencing assays for the simultaneous detection of multiple pathogens in a single test.
- BovReproSeq – A syndromic sequencing panel designed for the detection of 17 pathogens associated with bovine reproductive failure.
Research Project Sequencing
We also support research and surveillance projects with flexible sequencing services tailored to study objectives.
Available services include:
- Shotgun metagenomic sequencing – Characterization of bacterial and viral populations present in diagnostic or research samples.
- BCoV (Bovine coronavirus) spike and HE gene sequencing – Used to help distinguish vaccine strains from field strains.
Future-Ready Genomic Diagnostics
As third-generation sequencing technologies continue to mature, PDS anticipates a growing range of genomics-based diagnostic applications in the near future. We remain committed to expanding our service offerings to meet evolving diagnostic and research needs.
For inquiries regarding your diagnostic needs, including appropriate sample types, sequencing depth, and bioinformatic analysis options, contact the PDS Diagnostic Services Office at (306) 966-7316 or via email at dso@usask.ca.
For special requests, refer to Research, Surveillance, and Other Specialized Testing.