DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid

FROM THE FIELD TO THE LAB - Maine Howls has partnered with the Brzeski Conservation Genetics Lab at MTU's College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science to analyze the DNA samples that we locate, collect and preserve. The results of these tests will be added to our database of videos, measurements, vocalizations and more. Combined, this array of information will provide some fresh details regarding the specific origins of the animals that we are studying. Genetic studies have been completed in past years, but never before with a panel designed specifically for the Northeast US that includes documented populations of nearby eastern wolves/Algonquin wolves (Canis lycaon, C. lupus lycaon, or C. lupus x C. lycaon) in Canada. In past years we have successfully collected scat samples in 15ml centrifuge tubes using a preservation solution of pure ethanol alcohol (CH3CH2OH). This procedure has proven to provide viable DNA. Dr. Brzeski reminds us that final genotyping success typically ranges from 30% to 50%. Often, scientific papers report only samples that pass initial quality control steps, which exclude those without sufficient host DNA. Additionally, some samples might amplify partial genotypes but don't produce the full genetic profile needed for accurate group assignments. We have recently implemented the collection protocol that the university developed, and are now using a different buffer called "DNA/RNA shield" in screw cap tubes. This reagent is a DNA and RNA stabilization solution manufactured by Zymo Research. Upgrading our collection protocol in this way should increase our viability success rate even further.

Sample 205 being deposited (above) and photo at collection (below)

Sarah processing our samples in the lab (Photo credit: Sarah)

Sarah finishing up the QC (extractions, qPCR) of our first batch of samples. The lab will now proceed with genotyping the samples that have enough host DNA. Sequencing is planned for the end of 2024/early 2025. We're very fortunate and appreciative to be "invited into the lab" to see this end end of the process. (Photo credit: Sarah)

A typical wild Canis scat with hair visible

Tubes and preservation solution we're currently using (above)

A typical DNA collection kit we have used in the past (above)

Some genetic samples that Ken collected in the larger tubes we previously used

The scat collection instructional video that Maine Howls produced for Michigan Technological University's College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science and the Gulf Coast Canine Project. Following Dr. Brzeski's script, our years of experience locating, collecting and preserving scat for DNA analysis, and Jim's experience as a professional videographer made this a great project for us. (above)

Ken and Jim filming part of the video on location in northern Maine. (below)

Our wildlife biologist Jon with an eastern coyote/coywolf that was trapped, sedated and radio collared as part of a previous study that he headed. Jon's PhD dissertation was about eastern coyotes in Massachusetts, and he literally "wrote the book" about these animals. (Left) (Photo credit: Jon)

Sarah isn't always in the lab processing DNA - here she is enjoying the beautiful wilds of Michigan. A 2024 survey estimates a healthy & stable population of 762 wolves/158 packs in the Upper Peninsula. Nice hat Sarah! (Right) (Photo credit: Sarah)