Laboratory Research
Molecular Research and Development Section
Molecular R&D section at KSVDL is devoted to developing accurate, sensitive, and quicker molecular diagnostic assays, and is willing to work with our clients to meet each of their general and specific needs.
The Molecular Research and Development section of KSVDL develops molecular assays for the identification of major animal infectious diseases, including foodborne and zoonotic pathogens. In the past decade, we have developed more than 60 molecular assays involving more than 250 molecular targets.
Molecular R&D also utilized multiple diagnostic platforms:
- Sanger sequencer: provides faster sequencing results
- Luminex for developing multiplexed assays
- Digital PCR-based assay for Shiga toxin-producing E. coli detection and confirmation.
List of Research Publications:
Dr. Jianfa Bai, section head for Molecular R&D
email
Next Generation Sequencing Section
The introduction of the PacBio Sequel IIe™ into the Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory has provided highly accurate long-read sequencing capabilities.
Functions of PacBio sequencing that is not provided for by the Illumina platform includes more accurate de novo assembly (perfect for whole genome sequencing), isoform identification (transcriptomics), detection of structural variants, methylation data, and variant linkage without the requirement of additional lab work.
The KSVDL can tailor the PacBio workflows to individual projects as well as offer bioinformatics analysis if needed. Turn-around-times will be determined at the project overview discussion.
List of Research Publications:
Dr. Jayme Souza-Neto, section for Next Generation Sequencing
email
Virology and Serology sections
The virology and serology sections have developed an array of serological assays, including test panels, for the detection of antibodies against many different pathogens in a wide variety of species. Novel technologies for the automation of specialized testing are also being utilized in the lab. The virology section is equipped to detect and isolate many viruses from a variety of field and research specimens. Some assays are able to reveal the presence of actively replicating virus in cells which can help with the diagnosis of current infection. Recently, the virology lab introduced an assay that detects FIP virus in macrophages from peritoneal fluid leading to a more accurate diagnosis of FIP. In order to remain on the cutting edge of emerging infectious disease diagnosis, the lab now offers a test for the detection of neutralizing antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in any animal species. Both sections continue to work diligently on the expansion of new testing capabilities at KSVDL and are always open to discussion and collaboration with other scientists and clients to be able to meet their needs in any way we can.
List of Research Publications:
Dr. Roman Pogranichniy, section head for Virology & Serology
email