DNA TESTING SERVICES

We are requesting High-density Single Nucleotide Polymorphism genotyping services for feral swine. GeneSeek, a Neogen Company, is the leader in the field of agricultural and animal sciences genomics. Their large market share allows them to provide full-service genotyping (acceptance of genetic samples, DNA extraction, genotype quantification, and delivery of data) at a substantial (53%) discount over the price their competitors (Illumina) offer for only materials (SNP BeadChips). Further, GeneSeek has become the industry standard for genotyping. Accordingly, they have been contracted by collaborative agencies within USDA (Agricultural Research Services) to meet ARS genotyping needs. For these reasons, GeneSeek was awarded genotyping contracts in Fiscal Years 2016 – 2022 in which NWRC scientists collectively genotyped over 21,500 feral swine using GeneSeek’s proprietary genotyping bead array. In order to continue building a seamless, long-term dataset and maximize the scientific return on financial investment, it is necessary to continue contracting with GeneSeek for our genotyping needs. More directly, if we were to use a different tool for data generation (either an alternative SNP array or whole genome sequencing), the data would not be directly comparable to the database of 21,500 we have developed over the past 7 years, which would greatly reduce the utility of new data (if generated with a different analysis approach) in meeting the mission of USDA. Further, through 7 years of contracting, GeneSeek has continued to provide an effective product (in highresolution genetic analysis) and excellent customer service, and, in doing so, have become a trusted partner in fulfilling our mission within Wildlife Service and USDA