Next generation sequencer for the genetic analysis of pathogens affecting bee species

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The National Bee Diagnostic Centre - TAC (Technology Access Centre) is the only state-of-the-art laboratory in Canada dedicated exclusively to diagnostics, training and applied research for bee species. We provide a comprehensive array of analyses for the beekeeping industry to determine the health of bee stock, whose results can be used for management purposes. In addition, the NBDC-TAC with the active participation of beekeepers performs applied research focused on bee pathologies. We also collaborate with Federal, Provincial, University and College researchers on studies of colony losses, disease dynamics and pathogens of wild bee species. Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) has changed, in recent years, the way laboratories perform genetic analyses and diagnostics. We are now able to identify several targets in a single sample within a single run. It is possible to perform a wide and deep screening of known diseases affecting an organism, and even identify new ones. The NBDC-TAC plans to employ NGS technology to track, maintain and increase our controls and constructs used for diagnostics; determine disease strains, identify new disease-producing organisms, and detect Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNPs) whose application to screen Africanised hybrids is extremely important for Canada international trade of honey bee stock. This genetic analysis in combination with pathogen quantification and localization on tissue sections will give us a more complete and clearer picture of diseases, symptoms and outbreaks. The project will improve in-house capability and performance transforming the scope for all our applied research by digging into genetic information not available before. The equipment perfectly complements NBDC-TAC services and research, being unique for a teaching institute in Northern Alberta. Students in the Peace Country and from other regions will be trained on specialized laboratory skills contributing to the formation of highly qualified personnel. In addition, we will be able to enter into new exciting applied research collaborations with AAFC, Universities and other national and international organizations.