Ear Tag for Prion Diagnostics

A new diagnostic combines individual livestock identification by an ear tag with tissue sampling to protect against viral diseases and ensure consumer protection.

The ear tag, called TypiFix, extracts a tissue sample from an animal, which is conserved at extraction and sent to a laboratory for analysis. A special mummification technique ensures that the TypiFix sample can be stored at room temperature for years. The sample is suited for diagnostic tests as well as for DNA analysis. The extraction of a tissue sample makes the system tamper-proof, according to Prionics AG (Zurich, Switzerland), which is distributing TypiFix through IDnostics, a separate business unit established to market the product.

Another application for TypiFix is in animal breeding. If a farmer can identify animals with genetic defects early, they can be excluded from breeding. Prionics notes that TypiFix has proven successful in pilot studies with governments in Europe and livestock producers in the United States. "The product fills an important gap in consumer protection by combining traceability and diagnostics,” said Dr. Bruno Oesch, chairman of Prionics.

TypiFix was invented by Prof. Gottfried Brem, M.D. "The special mummification technique of TypiFix allows it to easily trace back from the fork to the farm,” he observed.

Prionics, a spin-off from the University of Zurich, carries out research and development in diagnostics for prion diseases such as bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) and other zoonotic diseases.




Related Links:
Prionics