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New DNA test makes it possible to identify invasive species in under two hours

A University of British Columbia professor has designed a DNA test that makes it possible for people in the field to identify harmful invasive species — such as the Asian gypsy moth — in under two hours.

A University of British Columbia professor has designed a DNA test that makes it possible for people in the field to identify harmful invasive species — such as the Asian gypsy moth — in under two hours.

With research supported by Genome Canada, Genome B.C. and Genome Quebec, biologist Dr. Richard Hamelin has developed an accurate and inexpensive DNA test that can be analyzed by a portable machine without using chemicals or even a steady power supply.

“The process of using DNA to identify an invasive species has been around for about 25 years,” said Hamelin, who has been with the university since 2006.

“The Eureka moment was when we realized that it would be a game-changer if we could miniaturize the process and take the lab to the field.”

He has repurposed a mobile genome sequencer (a medical instrument that performs chain-reaction testing) and loaded it with the DNA profiles of known invasive species.

Tiny samples — parts of a plant, or insect parts — are fed into the device. The instrument amplifies the genetic material to a level where it can be detected. It then compares the genomic profile of the sample with the target species and sends the results to a paired smartphone. The results can be uploaded to the Internet, for others to interpret the results simultaneously.

“Instead of having to send the samples to a laboratory and getting the results in weeks, we now have the ability to monitor an outbreak developing in real time,” said Hamelin.

“A similar survey done currently, using a researcher in the field going from site to site in a truck, could take two seasons to complete, by comparison.”

He envisions the process being used to detect and stop destructive species and pathogens before they get a chance to spread. “Sometimes, a spot is just a spot. Other times, it’s a deadly fungus or an exotic bug that has hitched a ride on a shipping container and has the potential to decimate local parks, forests and farms. You want to know as soon as possible what you’re looking at, so that you can collect more samples to assess the extent of the invasion or begin to formulate a plan of action.”

He says that the system can tell with near certainty whether a sample is harmful or not. “We can analyze up to nine samples from the same or different species at a time, and it’s all lightweight enough — the unit weighs only 1.3-kilograms — to fit into your backpack.”