Pet Genetics with Purpose

 Basepaws is committed to research and discovery.

Our work with genetics is not limited to breed analysis and insights. With every sample collected, Basepaws is building a comprehensive database that is being used to advance some of the most important research in animal health.  We partner with pet owners, veterinary practices, academic institutions, and scientific research partners to study the impact of genetics and the oral microbiome on clinical disease. Learn about our projects and how you can contribute.

  Basepaws utilizes state-of-the-art genetic sequencing methods.

As pioneers in feline genetics, we employ cutting-edge technology that allows us to analyze complete genomes.

Breed Analysis: Unlike most DNA tests for humans and companion animals, our breed relativity test relies on low-pass whole genome sequencing (WGS) and computational imputation, as opposed to DNA microarray technology. Using this method allows us to gain a bird's eye view of the complete genome, instead of focusing on only a handful of variants.

Health Markers: Next Generation Amplicon Sequencing (NGS) is the method Basepaws uses to obtain high-depth information beyond the capacity of traditional DNA sequencing technologies. It requires no prior data, and affords us the ability to efficiently update our health and traits marker panel to include newly discovered markers with much greater speed and agility than companies that use DNA microarrays.

Oral Microbiome Analysis: Most microbiome tests use 16S rRNA gene sequencing. This technique can only be used for identifying bacterial species (and some archaea). Yet the oral microbiome is also host to viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms. To get the whole picture, Basepaws uses shotgun metagenomic sequencing, a method that allows us to capture complete genomes of most microorganisms, not restricting us to only bacteria. We’ve since built the largest oral microbiome reference database (tens of thousands of microbiomes and counting!), which allows us to recognize a multitude of novel associations between diseases and microbes in the mouth, as well as confirm previously reported findings.

 Basepaws makes advanced technology accessible and affordable.

Historically, veterinarians did not have access to advanced genetic testing outside of a university lab. Today, Basepaws brings the power of genetics directly to the veterinary practice with an easy to use swab and comprehensive reports that are simple to understand.  We've made the breed, health DNA and oral microbiome screening tests accessible and affordable to the general practitioner.  These valuable tools enable veterinarians to discuss pet health risks with their clients and encourage adherence to recommendations with evidence-based data that can support treatment plans.