Tips on DNA and Karyo Type testing

Thursday, January 21st, 2010 News by j.cummer

All natural herd sires must have a DNA test on file. DNA test is a hair sample, please pull approximately 25 strands from the tail switch, a good idea is to pull extra and store it in case it is needed in the future. The DNA is located in the root bulb at the end of the hair strand. Always store hair samples in paper envelopes not plastic. Plastic destroys the DNA in the root bulb.

All AI bulls must have a DNA test on file that shows that the parents are verified (both parents of the AI bull must also have DNA on file). AI bulls also have to be karyo type tested for Translocation I/29. The karyo type test is a blood test so a blood sample must be collected in a green top vial. This sample must be drawn and couriered immediately to GenServe Lab to reach the lab within 48 hours of being drawn. This sample should be couriered at the beginning of the week not the end so that it reaches the lab in the specified time. This sample cannot be refrigerated.

All paperwork that must accompany the hair sample or blood sample must be requested from the Canadian Charolais Association prior to the sample being sent to the lab.