Neuropathic Hydrocephalus (NH) Genetic Test Now Available
MMI Genomics (MMIG) is now offering a genetic test that will screen for Neuropathic Hydrocephalus (NH), an inherited disorder that is afflicting cattle lines within Angus and Angus cross bred populations. This genetic defect is characterized by an extremely large cranium with little or no brain tissue or spinal cord present. In keeping with our commitment to provide Angus breeders with the necessary tools to manage and prevent genetic defects, we have added this diagnostic test to our growing product line which includes parentage verification, and screening for dwarfism and Arthrogryposis Multiplex (AM). The new NH test will determine if an animal is a carrier or free of the NH disorder
For our customers with archived samples, the process will be expedited as no additional sample collection is required. A small fee for retrieving the archived samples plus the testing cost will be charged at the time of processing.
As the authorized provider of DNA-based parentage testing for the American Angus Association since 2003, MMIG’s laboratories have typed tens of thousands of cattle for AAA members. Moreover, the company has analyzed hundreds of thousands of animals for the cattle industry gaining valuable experience in DNA analysis from parent verification to the identification of genetic defects. Beyond these significant diagnostic tests, the company has developed several innovative, DNA-based products that improve the efficiency and quality of cattle production.
MMIG offers competitive rates as well as discounts for large orders or when NH testing is bundled with AM testing. Only one DNA sample is required when tests are bundled.
With the largest cattle genotyping facility in the country and high-throughput capacity (up to 30,000 samples/week), MMIG has the ability to respond rapidly and effectively to the current market realities. Our expected turn-around time is between 13 and 17 business days.
Ordering NH and AM Test Kits:
Test kits can be ordered through MMIG:
· To order online (click here)
· Download the NH/AM Kit Order Form (click here) and fax (quickest) to (530) 297-3020 or mail to MMIG per instructions on the form
· Call MMIG Cattle Customer Service – (800) 311-8808/choose option 4
Procedures for Submitting Samples
1. Collect samples from animals to be tested. Click here to review instructions for sample collection.
2. Complete and Sign the NH/AM Submission and Order Form:
· American Angus Association members click here for Angus Sample Submission Form
· All other Breeds click here
3. Make sure you have included signatures and payment information where applicable
4. Return samples and NH/AM Submission Order Form to:
MMI Genomics
Attn: Cattle Services
1756 Picasso Ave.
Davis, CA 95618
***Note: A completed and signed NH/AM Submission and Order Form must accompany each group of samples submitted.
If you have provided samples to MMIG in the past for parentage, AM testing or both, there is no need to collect additional samples. Simply follow these easy instructions:
Or Mail completed form to
MMI Genomics
Attn: Cattle Services
1756 Picasso Ave.
Davis, CA 95618
Electronic Submission
We encourage our American Angus Association customers sending more than 10 samples in a single batch to enter the information for each animal in an electronic format (click here) and email the spreadsheet to: cattlecs@mmigenomics.com. Please note that the electronic format is mandatory for submission of 100 or more.
If sending electronic information, a signed Neuropathic Hydrocephalus - Arthrogryposis Multiplex Submission Form Cover Page must be included with each order. If submitting archived samples, the completed form can be faxed to (530) 297-3020 or mailed to MMI Genomics. For new samples, please include the form with your sample shipment.
Turn-Around Time
Samples submitted for NH or AM testing are processed by MMI Genomics in weekly batches beginning on Tuesday of each week Initially, MMIG intends to report results between 13 and 17 business days depending on when the sample arrives in the lab. For example, samples arriving, say, on Tuesday, June 30 would be reported on July 17—13 business days. However, samples arriving the following day, Wednesday, July 1 will not be run until the next week’s batch so the results will not be available until July 24—17 business days.
Turnaround times are expected to decrease after initial ramp-up period
For more information, call our customer service line at (800) 311-8808/choose option 4
Neuropathic Hydrocephalus (NH) and Arthrogryposis Multiplex (AM) FAQs
How do I submit a sample?
Download an NH/AM Kit Order Form (click here) For quickest delivery, fax the NH/AM Kit Order Form to (530) 297-3020 (can also be mailed) Collect sample(s) per instructions provided with the kit. Click here to review sample collection instructions Ship sample to MMIG along with completed and signed NH/AM Submission and Order Form (See "Procedures for Submitting Samples" above) Be sure to include signatures and payment information where applicable
What type of sample is acceptable? FTA? Semen? Hair?
FTA® cards are preferred. Cards can be ordered from MMIG for $2/card with a minimum order of 5 cards. Click here to download an NH/AM Kit Order Form
If samples cannot be submitted on FTA cards, our lab will process semen or hair for an additional charge of $7.00 per sample.
What is the cost of NH and AM Testing?
Click here for NH and AM test pricing. Please note that testing archived samples will require an additional charge of $2.00 per sample to offset retrieval costs.
Can we use archived samples?
Yes. If you have provided samples to MMIG in the past for parentage, AM testing or both, there is no need to collect additional samples. Click here for instructions.
What is the cost to retrieve archived samples?
There will be an additional charge of $2.00 per sample to offset retrieval costs.
What is the turn-around time?
Samples submitted for NH or AM testing are processed by MMI Genomics in weekly batches beginning on Tuesday of each week Initially, MMIG intends to report results between 13 and 17 business days depending on when the sample arrives in the lab. For example, samples arriving, say, on Tuesday, June 30 would be reported on July 17—13 business days. However, samples arriving the following day, Wednesday, July 1 will not be run until the next week’s batch so the results will not be available until July 24—17 business days.
Turnaround times are expected to decrease after initial ramp-up period
Will the results be sent to the American Angus Association?
If you complete and sign the section titled “Results Release Authorization” on the NH/AM Submission and Order Form, your results will automatically be sent to the American Angus Association.