The Secret of Clean Pens: The Role of Molecular Biology in Farming
Cage sanitation is an important aspect in maintaining cleanliness and preventing the spread of diseases in the farming environment. Good cage hygiene not only enhances animal comfort but also reduces the risk of infections that can disrupt animal health and affect farm productivity.
To maintain stable sanitation, products such as disinfectants specifically formulated to inhibit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms like Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli, and Clostridium spp., as well as viruses like avian influenza, have been developed. (H5N1). Without effective sanitation products, these microorganisms can multiply rapidly and cause disease outbreaks, which can potentially spread to other animals and even to humans.
Application of Molecular Biology Techniques
The evaluation of the effectiveness of cage sanitation products can be conducted using molecular biology techniques, which are known to have more sensitive and specific detection capabilities compared to conventional methods.
One of the molecular biology techniques often used to assess the effectiveness of cage sanitation products and monitor the presence of infectious agents is PCR. (Polymerase Chain Reaction). This method is highly sensitive and specific, capable of detecting pathogens in environments related to animal enclosures.
In ensuring the effectiveness of sanitation products, molecular biology techniques have emerged as superior methods that are more sensitive and specific compared to conventional methods. One of the main techniques that is often used is PCR. (Polymerase Chain Reaction).
Advantages of PCR in Sanitation Evaluation
- Accurate Pathogen Detection
PCR is capable of detecting hidden or hard-to-reach pathogenic microorganisms that other methods may miss. This technique works by exponentially amplifying the target DNA segments, allowing for the identification of pathogens even in small quantities.
Cage Environment Monitoring
With PCR, the presence of pathogens in cage components, external parasites, and other environmental samples can be thoroughly evaluated. This includes areas that are often overlooked during the sanitation process, such as hidden surfaces or small crevices.
Integration of PCR with Modern Monitoring Systems
PCR techniques can be combined with advanced monitoring systems such as the Interceptor from Tecniplast. This system collects airborne particles from the cages for further analysis. With this approach, contamination sources can be identified early, enhancing the biosecurity of the farm facilities.
REFERENCE
Compton, S. R., & Macy, J. D. (2015). Effect of cage-wash temperature on the removal of infectious agents from caging and the detection of infectious agents on the filters of animal bedding-disposal cabinets by PCR analysis. Journal of the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science, 54(6), 745-755.
Jensen, E. S., Allen, K. P., Henderson, K. S., Szabo, A., & Thulin, J. D. (2013). PCR testing of a ventilated caging system to detect murine fur mites. Journal of the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science, 52(1), 28-33.
