SG_USA_October_2022

DNA Submission Procedures

T he Santa Gertrudis Breeders Inter national (SGBI) office is experienc ing an increase in the number of DNA submissions we are receiving. With this in mind, we thought it was a good time to share some reminders of the DNA submission process to help you successfully navigate the steps. When it comes to DNA testing, the earlier you submit your samples, the better. By submitting your samples as soon as possible, the more likely you are to save yourself unnecessary stress and frustration. It takes four weeks from the time a breeder mails their samples to SGBI to when they receive DNA results from the association. If there’s any re-testing or incorrect paperwork delays, four weeks can quickly turn into eight. It’s always best to plan ahead and allow for extra time in case there are problems with the initial submission. When collecting DNA, remember to use the proper DNA testing kits from Neogen, including tissue sample units (TSU), and hair and blood cards. Once DNA samples are collected, complete the SGBI DNA submission form, which is available to download from the SGBI website under Member Resources tab. When completing the DNA submis sion form, follow these steps: 1. Properly identify your samples using the sample barcode indicated on the test kit and list the SGBI regis tration number for the animal from which the sample was collected. It is imperative that the animal’s regis tration number corresponds to the DNA sample so the genomic data will be linked to the animal in the DigitalBeef registry system. 2. Indicate the test product you seek for genotyping. 3. List a herd number for your order. This is important for work order/ billing information and to ensure you receive updates on your DNA submission. 4. For sire tracing and animals with multiple sires, complete the section on the form under Parentage and list possible sire(s). Does the sire and/ or dam have DNA on file? If not, parentage results will not be found. 5. If you make a mistake when completing the form, it is best to complete a new form entirely. Infor mation can be easily misinterpreted; therefore, list only the registration number of the animal and the cor

to ensure the straw is protected during shipment. Place the pen tube with straw in a Ziplock bag and padded envelope for ship ping. (Straws can be stored at room temperature.)  Insufficient blood is spotted on the blood card. Ensure the circle is filled and blood is visible on both side of the paper. Let the blood dry completely before closing the card.  Improper shipping can damage plastic Ziplock bag and mailed in a sturdy, padded envelope. TSU samples should be placed in a plastic Ziplock bag and shipped in a box or padded/bubble envelope. Upon receipt of DNA samples, SGBI’s DNA coordinator will complete a pre-submission test order and will mail the samples directly to Neogen's test lab. DNA submission occurs twice a month, early to mid-month and again at the end of the month. Genomic information will be available for parentage verification in four to six weeks, and the results will be provided via email. Be sure to list your primary email address on your member profile to receive results and updates on DNA submissions. Completing the DNA submission form is the best practice for ensuring your DNA samples will be processed in a timely manner. Questions regarding DNA collection and the submission pro cess should be directed to SGBI DNA Coordinator Melissa Braden by email ing melissa@santagertrudis.com or calling (361) 592-9357. DNA samples. Hair and blood cards should be placed in a

responding DNA sample barcode clearly in each designated section on the form. 6. Do not send samples without an accompanying DNA submission form as this will delay the process. The DNA coordinator will request a completed form before processing your DNA order. 7. For large DNA submissions, please provide a separate listing of the ani mals and sample barcodes, prefer ably in table/spreadsheet form. 8. Send the submission form and accompanying DNA samples to SGBI, PO Box 1257, Kingsville, TX 78363. We encourage you to ship your samples to SGBI using a method that allows you to track the shipment. A failed sample may result due to poor-quality DNA. Some general issues for sample failure include:  No tissue was present in the TSU vial or the sample was trapped in the cap, preventing it from being preserved. TSU should be kept at room temperature and are viable for 12 months after collection. To prevent DNA degradation, keep TSU from lengthy exposure to sunlight.  Too few follicles on the hair card collector or small follicles taken from young calves (DNA occurs at the root, not on the hair strand).  Semen straws can be easily damaged, so proper packaging is highly recommended. Use an empty ballpoint pen tube and cap

It takes four weeks from the time a breeder mails their samples to SGBI to when they receive DNA results from the association.

17

OCTOBER 2022 • WWW.SANTAGERTRUDIS.COM