Research & Technology > Agriculture, Biotechnology & Food > GenServe Laboratories (TM) > Rapid Wheat DNA Testing > Frequently Asked Questions

What is DNA analysis and how it will be applied to wheat in this case?

DNA is the carrier of genetic information that is present in all living organisms, including wheat. This project will identify the genetic information in wheat to distinguish between wheat classes. A commercial DNA test for wheat varieties may be developed in the future, but that is not the focus of our current work.

How will this project benefit agriculture producers?

This project is aimed at giving producers and the industry a way to verify genetic purity of wheat classes. The technology being developed in this project could provide the agriculture industry with a science-based option to identify wheat classes using DNA technology.

If the test is put into use, it could reduce liability in the grain handling system by preventing large grain shipments from having their class downgraded at the last minute and costing farmers and grain companies’ money. If successful, the test will help ensure that grain shipments are graded correctly and that famers and grain companies are paid appropriately.

Have you worked on this type of research before?

SRC has considerable experience dealing with DNA testing within the agriculture industry. This project will be conducted by employees from SRC GenServe Laboratories™, a leader in plant and animal genetics. We are experienced in the areas of molecular marker testing, QTL detection, molecular marker development, parentage identification and DNA fingerprinting.

When will you be able to do wheat class testing?

We are still validating the technology provided by AAFC. If the results are acceptable, we anticipate being able to accept samples sometime in 2010.

When will you be able to do varietal testing?

There is more work to be done on the science behind this offering. It is difficult to state an exact date; however, it initial varietal testing offerings could be available as soon as 2010.

How much will the test cost?

We are still developing a costing model and cannot say for certain at this time.

How quickly will you be able to provide results?

We are still developing the process and the science at this time. We have heard clearly from industry that results will need to be turned around quite quickly and we will be mindful of that as we develop our system.