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 present in all living organisms, including wheat. This project will identify the genetic information in wheat to distinguish between wheat classes and varieties.
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 and varieties 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, costing farmers and grain companies’ their money. If successful, the test will help ensure 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 DNA testing?
We are currently carrying out midge testing. By using SRC’s wheat midge testing service, wheat growers can ensure that they have the right blend of midge tolerant wheat to help protect their crops from a virulent wheat midge population.
We are able to provide blend ratio information to seed growers for 7 different midge tolerant wheat blends. GenServe Laboratories™ Innovation & Development group is working hard to develop identification testing options beginning with the two most widely grown wheat classes: durum and CWRS.
How quickly will you be able to provide results?
While we are still developing ID testing options, we have heard clearly from industry that a test will need to be rapid. Our scientific team is developing processes with this in mind.
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Saskatchewan Research Council |
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http://www.src.sk.ca/ |
