Determination of dog genetic profile

For testing a genetic profile blood samples are preferred. The analysis is very sensitive to DNA-quality. Swab samples can be used, but the swabs must be done correctly. If new samples have to be taken due to bad quality of a swab, the laboratory shall charge the costs of the repeated analysis to the customer.

The determination of genetic profile means determination of a set of genetic markers that are characteristic and unmistakable for the given individual (such as, for example, fingerprints of people). On the basis of a genetic profile, a dog can be uniquely identified.

To determine the genetic profile, tandem repetitive sequences (STR) are used. These sequences, also called microsatellites, are a class of genetic markers consisting of tandem sequence repeats with a size of two to seven base pairs. The alleles of STR locus change according to the number of repeats of the given sequence motive. Due to high level of polymorphism (informativity) and Mendelian inheritance, the microsattelites became suitable genetic markers for the study of diversity, parentage tests and the genetic identity.
STR alleles are determined by means of multiplex polymerase chain reaction (multiplex PCR). One of the primers of each pair is at 5´-end labelled with a fluorescent dye. Fragments are divided and detected in only one electrophoretic probe using an automatic electrophoresis device.  
With regard to profile testing, two main approaches are possible:
Markers according to ISAG - International Society of Animal Genetics
Markers according to AKC - American Kennel Club
These two approaches differ completely in the markers determined and their results are not mutually compatible. For example: if the genetic profile of one of the parents is determined according to AKC and the genetic profile of the offspring according to ISAG, it will not be possible to determine the parentage by comparing the results. On the contrary, if the genetic profiles of both dogs (parent and offspring) are determined according the same principle, the paternity can be determined by comparing the results without making further analysis.
The ISAG-method is more common in Europe and recommended by FCI and determines more markers than AKC-method. The AKC-method is recommended in the USA.  

Genomia laboratory works in accordance with ISAG; in 2011/2012, it is going to take part in the international comparison tests of ISAG and since February 2012 the method of determination of dog genetic profile has been newly accredited according to ISO 17025 by the  Czech Institute for Accreditation (ČIA).

The laboratory guarantees determination of at least 14 from the following 19 markers: AHTk211, CXX279, REN169O18, INU055, REN54P11, INRA21, AHT137, REN169D01, AHTh260, AHTk253, INU005, INU030, Amelogenin, FH2848, AHT121, FH2054, REN162C04 AHTh171 a REN247M23. These markers are included in the recommended panel according to the International Society for Animal Genetics (ISAG).