Genotyping FAQs

Samples should be submitted in clearly labelled 1.5ml tubes and placed into a storage box for collection/delivery.

Samples submitted from Biological Resources animal houses  are submitted directly to Genetic Research Services. Contact your animal house to arrange collection.

Alternatively, samples can be submitted directly to Genetic Research Services.

We can process a variety of tissue for genotyping analysis. Toe, tail tip and ear punches are routine sample types for analysis and should be 1-2mm in size for optimal genotyping. We are also able to process embryonic, blood, cell pellets and other tissue types if required.

Standard Result reporting turnaround time is a maximum of 9 full working days following sample receipt (excludes weekends, University and public holidays). A priority Genotyping service is available on request for an additional cost.

Animal colonies that are managed in UQ Biological Resources’s animal management database, Mosaic, will have genotyping results reported directly into the Mosaic database as soon as they are confirmed.

All result reports are also saved in a restricted-access shared drive. Only individuals with approved access will have access to their relevant group’s results folder.

Where results are required urgently, we offer a priority service where genotype results will be reported within TWO (2) Full Working Days following sample receipt. This service is only available for existing lines. Contact Us to discuss your priority needs.

If you are genotyping an existing line, we can set up a new account and start processing your samples straight away. Contact us today to create an account so we can start receiving your samples.

For clients with new genotyping lines we will also need to develop tests specific to our genotyping methods and will require further information before proceeding. This information can be provided confidentially though our New Project Submission Form or by contacting us. There is no obligation to proceed with our services by filling in this form - we will contact you to discuss further.

As results are being entered into the Mosaic database, they are checked for anomalies which may become a significant issue in your research breeding. We have an excellent working relationship with the UQ animal houses – identified anomalies are immediately investigated and followed up with animal house staff.

The quality of our genotyping processes are monitored with the inclusion of multiple positive and negative controls throughout the process to ensure all expected alleles are accounted for when analysing results. Where possible automated liquid handling instruments are used to process and transfer samples. Quality control checks are also performed during the laboratory process both manually and electronically. 

Results are read by two separate expert analysts before they are reported. Where possible genotypes of new litters are compared to parental genotypes to spot any genetic irregularities.

Compared to other genotyping methods (e.g. gel electrophoresis), Capillary Electrophoresis is quick and yields high resolution results. Our genotyping tests are developed and optimised in-house to ensure the clear differentiation of alleles and subsequently, the confident identification of Het/Hom samples.