Page 10 - Hooked on Herefords Feb 2021

Genomic Information Technical

(Single-Step BREEDPLAN)

While those that are keen to use genomically enhanced to be resolved. Continuing with the earlier example of
EBVs to make selection decisions (for sale and/or breeding using April EBVs in the sale catalogue, this means that
purposes) are encouraged to collect DNA samples at birth DNA samples should be sent for genotyping as early as
(TSU only) or marking (TSU and/or hair), some breeders possible in the new year.
may wish to simply include genomically enhanced EBVs Hereford breeders should also consider collecting
in their sale catalogues. In this situation, breeders need to a back up DNA sample (hair) for home storage when
allow sufficient time for the genotyping process to occur, collecting samples. Hair samples can be stored at room
including time to resolve any issues that may arise. temperature, in labelled envelopes. Avoid storing in
The process from DNA sampling to genotypes being plastic as this will cause the hair to sweat, which can
included in the grouprun is not a quick one; once samples allow mould and other contaminants to flourish. While
are received by PBB, they are sent to the lab where they collection of a new sample is recommended if the lab
are processed (processing alone typically averages 4-5 does require re-sampling, a backup sample may also be of
weeks) before genotypes are returned to NZ Herefords. use in the future (e.g. if a genotype is required once a bull
From here, the genotypes will need to wait for the next is sold/deceased).
grouprun (this can be up to four weeks if they are received
shortly after the data submission deadline).
While a three-to-four-month turnaround should be Conclusion
sufficient for the majority of your DNA samples to be Ensuring that all available information has been included
genotyped and these genotypes included in the grouprun in the calculation of BREEDPLAN EBVs included in sale
a small subset of animals may require re-sampling which catalogues is beneficial for Hereford seedstock producers
would extend the turnaround further. This can occur for and their commercial clients. NZ Hereford breeders should
a variety of reasons, including sample mix-ups, sample aim to have DNA samples for all sale bulls sent off for
contamination or insufficient DNA. Therefore, breeders genotyping well in advance of the grouprun analysis used
should ensure that DNA samples are submitted for for sale catalogue compilation, and all sale bull performance
genotyping well in advance of the grouprun for which data submitted at least two months ahead of sale catalogue
they plan to extract sale catalogue information. This will compilation. Doing so will ensure you have sufficient time to
give you some leeway in case re-sampling is required, deal with any arising outliers (performance data), re-sampling
or if there are other issues (e.g. parentage) that need requirements (DNA) and/or animal registration issues.

Tissue Sample Guidelines Taking an ear notch sample

1a. Slide the 1b. Try to avoid 2a. Remove the TSU 2b. A tissue sample
charged pliers over large veins and tube from the pliers should be clearly
the ear and position ridges. The sample by squeezing the visible inside the
the cutter about should be taken in two spring loaded tube.
1cm to 2cm from a very swift, fluid clips together, then
the edge of the ear. motion. slide out the tube.
TSU’s should be stored at room temperature prior to use (for a maximum period of 12
months). Care should be taken not to expose the unused product to extremes of heat or We recommend samples be taken from the back of
cold prior to sampling.
the ear rather than the front to minimise the amount
of hair which can prevent the TSU from sealing
correctly.
Sample can be taken from anywhere in the
highlighted area, try to find a spot as free from hair
as possible and not near a vein. Extract sample from this
area. (3cm from head,
Be sure to check the TSU after sampling to ensure the 6cm from edge of ear)
cap has sealed properly to avoid buffer leaking.
1. Take an 2. Squeeze the 2a. And insert the 2b. After insertion of
assembled two spring loaded TSU as shown in the the TSU release the
TSU (needle + retainer clips picture spring loaded clips
connection piece + together to lock in the tube
collection tube)
DISCARD
THE
NEEDLE
 SAFELY
3. Remove the used The TSU is for In the used TSU a CAUTION: The
needle from the SINGLE USE only, clear RED plunger needle is very sharp.
pliers by pushing both the tubes and will be visible Mind your fingers!
2c. Carefully 3. You have now 4. You can now 5. The pliers are now the handles apart. the needles can’t indicating the tube
squeeze the plier completely grabbed easily remove the charged and ready This will loosen the be re-used! See the already contains a
handles until the the needle. After the red connection for use. At first this needle and make it difference between sample and can’t be
large piston comes needle is inserted piece while holding charging action easy to remove. You an unused and a used again.
to a stop against into the piston you the two red tabs seems long but cannot reuse the used TSU.
the red connection can release the and pushing with experience this needle as it has no
piece handles sideways should only take a red plunger.
couple of seconds
Once the tissue sample has been extracted, care should be taken to store the product at room
Take care not to cut fingers on the metal needle. It is very sharp! temperature or in a refrigerator, but NOT to be frozen. The best results are obtained when the samples
are analysed within one year after the sample collection.
Allflex Australia Pty Ltd
10 | NZ Herefords Newsletter. February, 2021 33 Neumann Road, Capalaba Hooked on Herefords
QLD 4157, Australia
P: 1300 138 247 / F: 07 3245 9110
www.allflex.com.au
PCT Patent Application WO 2010/066475