Genomic Sequencing Helping to Revolutionise Diagnostics

Sep 28, 2020

The CEO of Prairie Diagnostic Services says high-throughput genomic sequencing is helping to revolutionise the identification of the pathogens that cause disease. In the past the use of genetic testing in veterinary diagnostic labs has been limited however in recent years the tide has turned and the evolution of these tests has enabled them to be used in routine diagnostics.

Dr. Yanyun Huang, the Chief Executive Officer and an Anatomic Pathologist with Prairie Diagnostic Services, says an umbrella of genomic methods called high-throughput sequencing offers a number of advantages.

Clip-Dr. Yanyun Huang-Prairie Diagnostic Services:

High-throughput sequencing has a potential as so-called one for all test because it can detect or reveal all the genes or genetic information in a given sample.

For example, if we put a piece of pig tissue into the sequencer, it can detect the pig DNA and RNA and, on the other hand it can also detect all the bacteria DNA, all the virus DNA and RNA so in one sample you have all of the genic information in there.

As well you have some genes, then the sequencer can detect that. And the new platforms of these sequencers can be relatively quick, at least as quick as the current diagnostics methods that we are using but some are very quick and can generate results in minutes or hours.

Source : Farmscape

Video: Early Fall Colors | Scenic Ontario Road Trip!

All adventures must come to an end, but not without one more journey! Join The Wandering Shepherds as we say farewell to our cozy Calabogie cottage and take the scenic road trip home to Ewetopia Farms. Our first stop was a breathtaking hydroelectric generating station, framed by cliffs, rushing water, and brilliant fall leaves that seemed to have changed overnight. From there, we meandered along winding backroads through lakes and hills, soaking in the spectacular autumn scenery. This year, the colors seemed to arrive earlier than usual—perhaps due to the summer’s drought? Whatever the reason, it was an unforgettable display of Ontario’s fall beauty. Finally, our holiday drew to a close as we pulled back into Ewetopia Farms, ready to return to the sheep and our daily vlogs. But this trip reminded us how important it is to pause, explore, and appreciate the simple beauty around us.