In the era of rapid environmental change and biodiversity loss, accurate species identification is more critical than ever. Traditional methods of species identification based on morphological characteristics can be time-consuming, subjective, and often require specialized taxonomic expertise. Moreover, these methods may prove inadequate when dealing with cryptic species, complex life cycles, or fragmented remains.
Expressed Sequence Tags (ESTs) are short, single-read sequences of cDNA (complementary DNA) derived from mRNA (messenger RNA). They represent a snapshot of the genes being expressed in a particular tissue or organism at a specific time. ESTs have emerged as a powerful tool for species identification due to their high specificity, abundance, and association with functional genes. This technology offers a rapid, accurate, and cost-effective method for identifying and differentiating species, even those that are closely related or morphologically similar.
Fig 1. Expressed Sequence Tag sequencing (EST) (Marina M., 2016)
Service Overview
CD BioSciences is a leading provider of cutting-edge EST marker services for species identification and biodiversity analysis. We offer a comprehensive suite of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of researchers, conservationists, and environmental agencies. Our services leverage the power of EST markers to provide accurate, reliable, and timely species identification, enabling informed decision-making in biodiversity conservation, environmental monitoring, and ecological research.
Technological Principles
EST markers exploit the inherent genetic variation between species to provide accurate identification. The process begins with the construction of cDNA libraries from the target organisms. These libraries are then sequenced to generate ESTs, which are subsequently analyzed to identify species-specific sequences or patterns. These unique sequences can be used to develop molecular markers, such as EST-SSR markers, that can accurately differentiate between species.
Key steps involved in EST marker development and analysis:
- RNA extraction and cDNA library construction: Total RNA is extracted from the target organism and used to synthesize cDNA. The cDNA is then cloned into a vector to create a cDNA library.
- EST sequencing: The cDNA library is sequenced using high-throughput sequencing technologies to generate a large number of ESTs.
- Sequence analysis and marker development: The EST sequences are analyzed to identify species-specific sequences or patterns. These sequences are then used to develop molecular markers, such as EST-SSR markers.
- Species identification: The developed markers are used to identify unknown samples by comparing their genetic profiles to a reference database of known species.
Technical Features
EST markers offer several advantages over traditional methods of species identification:
- High specificity: ESTs are derived from transcribed regions of the genome, which tend to be more conserved within species but exhibit variations between species. This specificity allows for the development of markers that can distinguish closely related species.
- Rapid and efficient: EST marker analysis can be performed relatively quickly and efficiently compared to traditional methods, which often require time-consuming morphological examinations.
- Cost-effectiveness: EST generation and analysis can be relatively inexpensive compared to other molecular methods.
- Versatility: EST markers can be used for a variety of applications, including species identification, population genetics, and evolutionary studies.
- Non-destructive: EST analysis can be performed on small tissue samples or even environmental DNA (eDNA), minimizing the impact on target organisms.
Technical Classifications
EST markers can be classified into several types based on their sequence characteristics and applications:
- EST-SSR markers: Simple Sequence Repeats (SSRs) are short, repetitive DNA sequences found throughout the genome. EST-SSRs are SSRs derived from ESTs. They are valuable markers for species identification due to their high variability and co-dominant inheritance.
- EST-SNP markers: Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) are single-base pair variations in DNA sequences. EST-SNPs are SNPs found within ESTs. They can be used for species identification and population genetic studies.
- EST-RFLP markers: Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) markers are based on variations in DNA fragment lengths generated by restriction enzyme digestion. EST-RFLP markers can be developed by identifying species-specific restriction sites within ESTs.
Applications Areas
EST markers have a wide range of applications in various fields:
- Biodiversity assessment and conservation: EST markers can be used to identify species, assess biodiversity, and monitor populations, aiding in conservation efforts.
- Environmental monitoring: EST markers can be used to detect invasive species, track the spread of diseases, and monitor the impact of environmental pollution.
- Forensic science: EST markers can be used for species identification in wildlife forensics, such as identifying the source of illegal wildlife products.
- Agriculture and food safety: EST markers can be used for crop variety identification, food authentication, and traceability.
- Biomedical research: EST markers can be used to study gene expression patterns, identify disease biomarkers, and develop diagnostic tools.
Environmental Benefits of RAPD Markers
- Non-invasive sampling: EST analysis can be performed on small tissue samples or eDNA, reducing the need for destructive sampling methods.
- Early detection of invasive species: EST markers can help detect invasive species at early stages of invasion, facilitating timely management interventions.
- Monitoring of endangered species: EST markers can be used to monitor populations of endangered species and assess their genetic diversity, aiding in conservation efforts.
- Assessment of environmental impact: EST markers can be used to monitor the impact of environmental pollution and habitat degradation on biodiversity.
Our Services
At our bioenvironmental company, we specialize in providing cutting-edge molecular marker services using expressed sequence tags (EST) markers to facilitate species identification and genetic analysis. Our services are designed to meet the needs of researchers, breeders, and conservationists in various biological and agricultural applications. Here is an overview of the services we offer:
- Genetic Diversity Analysis: We utilize EST-SSR markers to assess the genetic diversity within and between populations, providing valuable insights for conservation and breeding programs.
- Species Identification and Phylogenetic Studies: Our services include the use of EST-SSR markers for precise species identification and to elucidate phylogenetic relationships among closely related species.
- Molecular Breeding Support: We offer marker-assisted selection (MAS) services, utilizing EST-SSR markers to streamline breeding programs by identifying and selecting for desirable traits at the molecular level.
- Genetic Linkage Map Construction: We develop genetic linkage maps using EST-SSR markers, which are crucial for understanding the genetic architecture of species and mapping quantitative trait loci (QTLs).
- Transcriptome Sequencing and EST-SSR Marker Development: Leveraging next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies, we identify and develop large-scale EST-SSR markers from transcriptome data, providing a fast, reliable, and cost-effective tool for genetic research.
- DNA Fingerprinting: Our services include the use of EST-SSR markers for DNA fingerprinting, which is essential for variety protection, authentication, and traceability in agriculture and horticulture.
- Genetic Resource Assessment: We assist in the collection and preservation of genetic resources by evaluating the genetic variation within wild and cultivated species, ensuring the conservation of valuable genetic diversity.
Distinctive Service Features
- High Polymorphism and Transferability: Our EST-SSR markers are known for their high polymorphism, which allows for greater resolution in genetic studies. They also exhibit high transferability across related species, making them versatile tools for comparative genomics.
- Cost-Effectiveness and Efficiency: Compared to other molecular marker development methods, our EST-SSR marker services are more cost-effective and efficient, especially with the advent of NGS technologies.
- Expertise in Non-Model Species: We have extensive experience in working with non-model species, where reference genomes may be limited or unavailable, and have successfully developed EST-SSR markers for such species.
- Bioinformatics Support: Our team of bioinformaticians ensures the accurate identification and analysis of EST-SSR markers, providing robust support for your genetic studies.
Contact Us
By choosing our EST Markers services, you are leveraging the latest molecular biology techniques to gain deep insights into the genetic makeup of species, enabling informed decisions in genetic research and conservation efforts, please contact us and confirm with our team for more information.
How to Place an Order
Reference
- Marina M., Rodrigo C., et al "Gene Expression: An Overview Of Methods And Applications For Cancer Research" Veterinaria e Zootecnia 2016, 690:2178-3764.
Our products and services are for research use only and cannot be used for any clinical purposes.
Expressed Sequence Tags (EST) Markers
