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Frequently Asked Questions - Dairy

What is IGENITY?
What is included in the IGENITY Sample Collection Kit?
What is the best source of DNA?
Will IGENITY test dairy bull calves, dairy farm bulls or clean up bulls?
How can a producer use IGENITY results to improve breeding decisions?
Should I keep extra collector cards?
Should samples be sent overnight?
Will breed associations accept IGENITY results?
Do IGENITY markers have any impact on undesirable traits?
Does IGENITY involve genetic manipulation?
How accurate is IGENITY?
Where can I get an IGENITY Sample Collection Kit?
What do results look like?
Why should I use IGENITY now?
What happens if I receive an NR?

Q: What is IGENITY®? back to top
A: IGENITY is the DNA testing division of Merial — a world leader in animal health. IGENITY offers DNA analyses for beef and dairy producers, helping producers become more profitable using DNA technology.

Q: What is included in the IGENITY Sample Collection Kit? back to top
A: The IGENITY Sample Collection Kit contains everything a producer needs for DNA sampling and genotype testing. Ten collector cards are supplied for taking DNA samples — either nasal swabs or blood. Lancets and nasal swabs are in every kit. Each collector card has a barcode for uniquely identifying the sample and the animal's records. An animal record sheet is also provided. The sample is returned in the self-addressed box. Lab test results are returned to producers via the Internet, mail or fax in seven to 15 business days from receipt of tissue sample in the laboratory.

Q: What is the best source of DNA? back to top
A: IGENITY accepts blood, tissue punch or nasal swabs for dairy samples — all are excellent sources of DNA.

Q: Will IGENITY test dairy bull calves, dairy farm bulls or clean up bulls? back to top
A: Yes. However bulls will only receive results for the cheese proteins (beta lactoglobulin, kappa casein, and beta casein), BLAD, DUMPS, CVM, and coat color, as purchased. Results will not be available for longevity or milk production traits. The IGENITY profile price is the same for bulls as it is for heifers or cows.

Q: Should I keep extra collector cards? back to top
A: Yes! Often, producers only need to sample a few animals, and have extra collector cards left over. Save them for future sampling. The two forms that are required for sample submission — the Sample Information Sheet and the Order Form can be printed here. Samples can then be submitted in a box or padded envelope with both completed forms and payment. The mailing address is:

IGENITY, 4701 Innovation Drive, Suite CB101; Lincoln NE 68521.

Q: Should samples be sent overnight? back to top
A: Collector cards are extremely stable, so samples can be submitted via any service (U.S. Postal Service, UPS or Federal Express). The sooner samples reach the IGENITY lab, the quicker the results will be returned.

Q: Will breed association accept IGENITY results? back to top
A: All major breed organizations accept IGENITY test results, with the exception of parentage results. IGENITY can send results directly to a breed registry if a signed letter specifying which animals and results should be reported is enclosed with the samples. Be sure to use the animal's breed registration number, or dam's registration number on the Sample Information sheet to make it easy for the breed organizations to identify the subject animal.

Q: Do IGENITY markers have any impact on undesirable traits? back to top
A: IGENITY markers are extensively researched for many traits. If an undesirable trait is found, both the desirable and the undesirable results are published in all literature and results keys.

Q: Does IGENITY involve genetic manipulation? back to top
A: No. Recombinant molecular genetic technologies have not been used in any way in the IGENITY analyses. The DNA tests identify a natural variation in cattle DNA that has evolved with the species.

Q: How accurate is IGENITY? back to top
A: Since IGENITY analyses identify a specific DNA-based molecule on specific chromosomes, the results are highly accurate.

Q: Where can I get an IGENITY Sample Collection Kit? back to top
A: To order a kit right now, simply click here, or contact a Select Sires Representative. Kits are available free of charge.

Q: What do results look like? back to top
A: Click here to see a sample IGENITY profile.

Q: Why should I use IGENITY now? back to top
A: Many producers are gathering samples for some form of DNA or BVD-PI testing. With IGENITY, that same sample can be used to profile multiple genetic markers of economic importance and provide a wealth of inside information about an animal's genetic potential. Testing heifers early in their lives provides a powerful genetic basis for the many breeding, selection and marketing decisions you'll make throughout their lifetimes. Using the power of DNA, IGENITY helps you understand and manage the potential for animals to perform and transmit traits of economic importance to offspring.

Q: What happens if I receive an NR? back to top
A: Sometimes samples appear normal, but are still unable to produce acceptable results. If you receive an NR, you may resubmit a new sample from the same animal at no charge.

Ask your Select Sires representative for more information about how IGENITY can give you the genetic edge to achieve your goals faster.


Have more questions?
Let an expert give you the inside information — igenity.support@merial.com.

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