Genetic divergence study

Genetic divergence studies allow for the comparison of DNA profiles between several samples to assess their genetic similarity or differentiation.
PCR, molecular hybridization, and NGS (Next Generation Sequencing) technologies , is a powerful tool for characterizing species, detecting genetic variations , and establishing precise biological traceability .

It is widely used in the fields of agri-food, cosmetics, health, environment and bio-based materials , where genetic identification guarantees the conformity, origin and quality of products.

Technological methods and approaches

The methods used depend on the level of precision required:

• PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) : targeted amplification of specific genetic sequences to detect polymorphisms (SNP, INDEL) or mutations.
• Molecular hybridization : detection of complementary sequences via specific probes, often used for rapid comparison of samples.
• Next-generation sequencing (NGS) : the reference approach for obtaining the complete genetic profile of an organism or complex mixture.
• Bioinformatics analysis : sequence alignment, calculation of genetic distances, phylogenetic representation (similarity trees).

These methods make it possible to measure intra- or interspecific genetic divergence and to identify unique molecular signatures associated with a variety, species or lineage.

Affected matrices

The study applies to a wide variety of biological or industrial samples:

• Plants and plant extracts : control of botanical authenticity, identification of species, varietal selection.
• Food products : verification of the traceability of ingredients (meat, fish, cereals, herbs).
• Natural and cosmetic ingredients : organic origin control, anti-counterfeiting measures.
• Bio-based materials : identification of the plant or microbial source.
• Microbial strains : genetic monitoring of yeasts, bacteria or molds in fermentation.

Industrial and scientific applications

The study of genetic divergence is a strategic tool in several fields:

• Traceability and authentication of plant or animal raw materials.
• Variety selection and improvement in agriculture and phytotechnology.
• Protection of intellectual property rights to patented varieties or extracts.
• Biodiversity and molecular ecology studies for environmental monitoring.
• Detection of fraud and substitutions in the food or cosmetics supply chains.
• Quality control of formulations containing natural or microbial active ingredients.

Related analyses

For a comprehensive genetic approach, YesWeLab recommends combining this study with:

• Analysis of gene expression to assess the activity of genes of interest.
• Study of alpha and beta diversity to compare microbial diversity between samples.
• Phage typing study to differentiate bacterial strains.
• Ecotoxicological test (Microtox) to correlate genetic diversity with biological effects.

YesWeLab expertise

YesWeLab relies on a network of laboratories specializing in molecular genetics and DNA sequencing , accredited to ISO 17025 and COFRAC .
Our scientific teams support industry partners in:

• The development of genetic comparison protocols adapted to each matrix ,
• analysis of sequencing results ,
• The drafting of actionable reports for research, production, or regulatory compliance.

Thanks to the YesWeLab digital platform , you can order your studies online, track your samples and access interactive reports including phylogenetic representations and divergence indicators.