Genomic diversity and characterization of lungwoms

Analysis of the genetic diversity of organisms plays an important role in research of related species and clinical applications. Lungworms (Dictyocaulus spp) have been identified in many species of ruminants. This study aimed to investigate the genomic variations of lungworms species, which could potentially lead to practical control methods and therapeutics in the distinct species of lungworms. To determine genetic relatedness, lungworm DNA was isolated from white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), New Zealand Red deer (Cervus elaphus), Louisiana cattle (Bos taurus), Mississippi cattle, and Wisconsin cattle and extracted, amplified through polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and then visualized using agarose gel electrophoresis. Currently, the PCR protocol has been unreliable and protocols are being designed to give more consistent results. At the moment, different approaches are being used to get the PCR to run and be able to get consistent results when amplifying. Once the PCR is fully functional, the next steps will be DNA cloning and sequencing for further investigation of the different species.https://openriver.winona.edu/urc2019/1005/thumbnail.jp