Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if GIS is unable to produce an enriched library from my species?
This would be highly unusual. However, if GIS cannot deliver an enriched library, there will be no charge whatsoever. Any prepayment willbe returned.

Is it true that I might actually get more than one enriched library?
Absolutely! We perform enrichments using four different motifs in parallel, leading to the production of four separatelibraries. All libraries that show evidence of enrichment will be delivered to you for the one basic price. It is normally the case that more than one of the libraries is enriched to 50% or greater. There have been several instances where all four libraries have been enriched to at least this level.

How do I know that the library is enriched?
Each library is delivered with sequenced electropherograms that confirm the success of the enrichment, and information on how to efficiently obtain additional microsatellite loci from the library.

What makes GIS so successful at developing enriched microsatellite libraries?
GIS invested years of research andsignificant financial and human resources specifically on the development of robust procedures for producing microsatellite-enriched libraries. Each of our technical staff members is a specialist at carrying out specific components of the overall procedure. The extensive experience they have accumulated in producing libraries from well over 200 species guarantees that libraries will be produced quickly and successfully. Because we are a commercial lab, our survival depends on your satisfaction. We focus on your project, undistracted by committee meetings, teaching commitments, publication pressures, or other distractions commonly found in an academic setting.

Can libraries only be produced from total genomic DNA?
No. We can use any source of DNA which contains microsatellites, including, for example, chromosome sorts, BAC clones, even fragment inserts from a non-enriched partial plasmid library.

Does GIS sell “off-the shelf” libraries?
No. All libraries developed by GIS are the property of the customer and will never be released or re-sold to other customers.

What happens if my -80 deg C goes out, I drop the tube, etc.?
GIS retains ligation mix used to produce the libraries for at least one year (longer if requested). New libraries will be produced from the ligation mix relatively quickly and at no additional charge.

Does GIS offer other services?
Yes, indeed. Provided we have produced the libraries, upon request, GIS will perform additional sequencing, primer design and testing, and locus development. Genotyping and analysis services are also available.