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The
classification of organisms, better known as taxonomy, was
previously done mainly by observation of particular features and
similarities between organisms that indicate relationship or
differentiation. Today all this work could be done by using DNA
analysis followed by comparisons of DNA sequences between organisms.
Certain genes are highly conserved across different species and
small differences in their sequence can be used to
classify the particular species and also to relate it to other
members of its genus and/or family. This system can be used to
classify and identify most higher organisms including
plants, mammals and fish. To date, the genomes of a large number of
organisms have been sequenced and these projects are revealing a
gold mine of information about the development of these animals,
their relationships and origins. This information can be beneficial
for us since the identified genes and gene functions in most animals
are also found in humans and so this information helps to understand
better the human body and how it functions.
Apart from
taxonomy, DNA barcoding can be used to identify meats and meat
products on sale in markets
and claimed to be coming from a
particular source. Confirmation of source by DNA
testing can be of an advantage both for the seller
and consumer, for policy-makers and government regulators,
agriculture, health and environmental protection.
MLS BioDNA Ltd is able to perform such testing to
interested parties and is also ready to join any project in this
field especially to build up databases of DNA sequences from
animals, plants and other organisms found in Malta and also in the
Mediterranean region.
For
further details please contact us.
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