Research



Technology Focus
 
DNA Typing in Wild Life Management 

Majestic animals like the lion and tiger are endangered and a vigorous and effective preservation programme is being undertaken in order to save and multiply their numbers in designated wild life preserves and zoos. Genetic fingerprinting of the individual animals, when done, will help in raising healthy offspring from parents that can be identified and chosen for their genetic endowments. In a collaborative effort to this end between the Central Zoo Authority of India and the CCMB, over 250 blood samples from animals from various Indian zoos have been collected, the chromosomes isolated and analyzed for abnormalities and DNA fingerprinting. Of the two families of lions, caught wild from the Gir forest, DNA fingerprinting suggests high inbreeding; more samples need to be analyzed before conclusions are drawn. The 35 tigers (two families of white tigers and one family of Royal Bengal tiger) from the Bhubaneswar zoo showed better DNA polymorphism. Further analysis with a larger number of samples is in progress. In complementarity, semen samples of several of these tigers have been obtained and are being analyzed for features desirable for artificial insemination that would aid in the production of healthy cubs.

Industry Classification: Genetic Engineering
Product Type: Consumer
If Patented: Patent filed in India & USA
Contact Person: Dr. Lalji Singh