The Animal Diagnostics Laboratory provides animal genotyping services using quantitative and endpoint polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay analysis. In addition, we provide a full range of diagnostic capabilities that include molecular detection of pathogens, microscopic screening for parasites, serological evaluation of antibodies, and microbiological cultures of various culture media. 

MKPV effects in immunocompetent mice

Persistent infection may affect research reproducibility

Mouse Kidney Parvovirus causes asymptomatic nephritis and persistent virus shedding in immunocompetent animals.
Microbiotics Mouse study

Fpr2 relates beneficial effect of commensal E. coli bacteria

Fpr2 and commensal E. coli interrelation mediate homeostasis and microbiota balance in the colon.

Overseeing safe facilities and healthy animals 

The diagnostic capabilities of our laboratory ensure that animal facilities are free of pathogens and safeguard animal experimental results from being affected or biased by the presence of pathogens. These capabilities include microbiological cultures on various culture media, serological evaluation of antibodies, and molecular detection of pathogens.

Petri dishes

Diagnostic capabilities

The diagnostic capabilities of our laboratory ensure that animal facilities are free of pathogens and safeguard animal experimental results from being affected or biased by the presence of pathogens. These capabilities include microbiological cultures on various culture media, serological evaluation of antibodies and molecular detection of pathogens.
What is this? Petri dishes for use in microbial culture.
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Mouse mite (Ornithonyssus bacoti)

Microscopic screening

We provide microscopic screening for ectoparasites such as mites and pinworms as part of our effort to maintain healthy animals.
What is this? Mouse mite (Ornithonyssus bacoti).
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Services using state-of-the-art technology 

Our work provides a vital service for researchers by making it possible to genetically identify mice and by monitoring the health of mice in the animal facilities. We conduct DNA quantitation and sizing using an automated capillary electrophoresis separation system that eliminates the need for agarose gel electrophoresis to detect the PCR products.  

Tissue samples being prepared for genotyping.

Improved testing

We developed molecular assays for most rodent pathogens, allowing us to use the more robust “direct-colony tests” and reduce reliance on sentinel animals.
What is this? Tissue samples being prepared for genotyping.
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Pipette close up

High-throughput genotyping

We use a robotic liquid handling system to assist in the genotyping of mice using quantitative PCR or end-point analysis.
What is this? Genotyping of sample biopsies and genetic background analysis of genetically engineered mice.
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Our capabilities and specializations

Animal genotyping and pathogen detection 

We rely on real-time PCR assays, also called quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays, to genotype animals and detect pathogens. Real-time PCR assay instruments measure the accumulation of fluorescent signals for precise quantification of PCR products and fast data analysis, since there is no need to detect products using gel electrophoresis.  

  • Real-time PCR/qPCR 

  • DNA quantitation and sizing 

  • Electrophoresis separation system: LabChip® GX Touch™ nucleic acid analyzer