Animal disease testing using molecular diagnostics

by Carol Aloysius

Animal diseases can be tested for the first time in Sri Lanka at a new unit established by Genetech Molecular Diagnostic , the foremost institute in gene testing.

"This new service will enable the public and veterinary practitioners to obtain world class diagnostic and identification services using genetic technology", a senior scientist at the Animal Testing Unit, Dr. Dhammika Seneviratne told the Sunday Observer. "Genetech offers diagnostic services mainly based on polymerase chain reaction method (PCR), which is widely recognised as one of the greatest breakthroughs in gene technology, has emerged as powerful tool in clinical medicine.

PCR - based diagnostics is highly specific, sensitive and rapid allowing for early detection of infectious diseases in humans and a reliable tool to confirm clinical examinations", he noted.

"We are now offering this service to test animals for diseases that could affect both humans and animals."

He said PCR based disease diagnostic methods had been established to detect infections such as canine parvo virus, canine distemper virus, canine babessiosis, as well as viruses affecting fish, cats, and cattle.

"Cattle disease has killed several livestock in the country and is still prevalent. Similarly infectious diseases like parvo in household pets can spread to their owners.