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- DNA Typing | Genetech
Discover specialized DNA typing services at Genetech, including paternity tests and forensic analysis, for precise identification and familial verification in Sri Lanka. DNA Typing Our passion to improve We pioneered the use of DNA typing for human identification for forensic casework and analysis of family relationships including parentage testing. We are a major supplier of this technology to the medico-legal community and the judicial system in Sri Lanka. Our reputation for integrity and reliability has made us the main provider of forensic DNA testing in the country. Over 4000 cases of disputed parentage and another 4000 criminal cases have had the advantage of DNA evidence through Genetech. What is DNA typing? DNA typing is a method of identifying individuals from the differences in their DNA. It is used for forensic casework as well as for determining familial relationships between individuals including paternity, maternity and siblingship. Advantages of DNA typing The science of DNA typing relies on technology that allows an individual's DNA to be examined and analysed. A person's DNA is unique: no two individuals (with the exception of identical twins) have the same DNA. Every cell in a person's body has the same DNA. Hence, DNA taken from any part of the body from the same individual will always be the same. DNA typing can be performed from many types of biological specimens including blood, saliva, sperm cells, muscle, teeth and bones. Thus, a person's DNA can be typed from very little tissue or body fluid. DNA typing is used for two major purposes: Identification of individuals from biological samples: This is mainly done in forensic casework, where it is possible to determine the identity of a criminal by typing the DNA left behind at the scene of the crime. Determination of familial relationships: This includes paternity testing, maternity testing, sibling testing, grand-parent testing, and even the identification of mutilated bodies. DNA typing is the best method of identifying individuals and determining familial relationships due to many reasons. It is extremely sensitive: with even a very small amount of tissue, the test can be performed successfully. It is also very accurate: it can give a test result with a very high degree of certainty. It is very reliable: the likelihood of obtaining a false result can be minimised, and the likelihood of making an error in the conclusion can be calculated. How does DNA typing work? In the DNA typing process, a DNA banding pattern or profile of an individual is first obtained from a tissue sample. The DNA profile is observed in the form of a set of DNA bands known as alleles. Each person has a maximum of two specific alleles for a given genetic location. This DNA profile is compared with the profile obtained from a sample taken from the scene of a crime. If the alleles in the two profiles match, then it can be said that the sample taken from the scene of the crime is from the individual that was tested. DNA typing services Child custody and maintenance: In cases where one parent is claiming the custody and maintenance of a child and the other parent is refusing to accept parentage. Proof of adultery: Especially in divorce cases where the paternity of the child is suspect, and the wife is being accused of adultery, DNA typing can be used to determine whether the husband is the father of the child. View all Cost We are happy to announce that after much research and optimisation, we have streamlined our DNA typing methods, and we are therefore able to provide DNA typing services at a reasonable cost. We perform the same DNA typing tests which are used by internationally recognised laboratories, and maintain the same standards of quality so that the conclusions made by us can be verified by any accredited forensic DNA typing laboratory in the world. Contact us View Price List Quality control DNA typing is a highly specialised procedure which requires knowledge and skill. Furthermore, for DNA typing evidence to be acceptable in a Court of Law, it has to meet certain quality standards, which have been well documented and followed by forensic DNA laboratories worldwide. Accordingly in 2010, we became the first DNA typing laboratory in Sri Lanka to achieve ISO 15189:2007 (now 15189:2012) accreditation from Sri Lanka Accreditation Board (SLAB). Read more Accuracy of evidence DNA testing is the most accurate and reliable means of identity verification and parentage testing. The degree of accuracy of the test will depend on the genetic diversity of the Sri Lankan population as well as the number of genetic locations (STR loci) which are tested. There is no mandatory number of STR loci required for a test, but the testing of nine STR loci or more is generally considered to be sufficiently accurate. We test up to 15 STR loci. Read more Ethical Guidelines DNA typing is performed ethically only with the informed consent of the individual whose DNA is being typed. The persons concerned will be informed about the consequences of the test. Where such consent cannot be given such as in the case of minors, the consent of the guardian has to be obtained. We will not undertake samples for parentage testing without written consent from all living parties who will be tested. Read more Please contact us for personalised support on parentage and testing of other family relationships.
- Courses and Internships | Genetech
Discover our industry and laboratory-based molecular biology courses and internships for A Level, undergraduate, and graduate students. Join us at Genetech, Colombo. Courses and Internships Our vision and mission Our teaching facility is designed and organised with Dr. Maya Gunasekera’s original vision in mind, which is “anyone interested in this subject should be given the opportunity to learn it”. Therefore, we offer training programmes aimed at providing a comprehensive knowledge of basics to advanced molecular biology. This includes coursework and well-structured practical training in laboratory methods in molecular biology under the guidance of practicing scientists. Genetech School of Gene Technology offers training programmes in areas including disease diagnostic methods of molecular medicine for medical officers, forensic DNA typing for medico-legal personnel, laboratory management for technical officers and courses on gene technology for post-Advanced Level, undergraduate and graduate level students. View FAQs Hear from our students A large number of undergraduate and graduate level students have undergone training at Genetech as interns and research students. At present, research students and technicians that trained at Genetech are contributing immensely to the field of Molecular Diagnostics through various organisations islandwide. Internships We offer internship opportunities for local and foreign students who wish to work in an active molecular life science facility and obtain hands-on experience in a wide range of molecular biology techniques. Furthermore, our interns will be supervised by experienced scientists to actively engage in some short-term research and devise innovative solutions to complex challenges in this field. By choosing to do an internship at Genetech, you will avail yourself of an opportunity to work in a scientific environment which is quite unique in Sri Lanka. You will be able to work alongside scientists who are amongst the most experienced personnel in the molecular life sciences and learn in an environment that is fast-paced and exciting. Being a testing laboratory, Genetech is constantly working against time to deliver molecular biology-based testing services. Being a research institute, Genetech is always keen to branch out into new areas. Being a training organisation, Genetech can provide you with an opportunity to learn from practicing scientists and be mentored by experienced teachers whilst conducting research in a well-equipped facility. Courses The objective of these courses is to give all our students a comprehensive understanding of the essential principles of the subject. It aims to give each category of students a degree of knowledge and skill which would help meet the requirements of institutes of higher education and research anywhere in the world, and also help to accelerate the career development of personnel requiring a non-professional level of skill in molecular biology, such as medical and medico-legal personnel. View our internships 5 Day Practical Training Programme for A Level Students Advanced Certificate Course in DNA Fingerprinting Industry Based Training Programme Laboratory Practical Courses for A/L Students and Teachers Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Technology Molecular Diagnostics of Infectious Diseases Certificate Course in Gene Technology If you are interested in doing an internship or course at Genetech, please submit the Inquiry Form below or email us at info@genetechsrilanka.com to receive further details. View Inquiry Form
- Bird DNA Testing | Genetech | Colombo, Sri Lanka
Explore Genetech’s Bird DNA Testing services, including accurate Bird DNA sexing for sex determination and Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD) screening. Ensure the health and correct identification of your birds with reliable testing. Bird DNA Testing Bird DNA Sexing Read More Read More Psittacine Beak & Feather Disease (PBFD) Read More Read More
- DNA Sequencing | Genetech
Discover affordable DNA sequencing services in Sri Lanka with Genetech. Explore CES and NGS for PCR products, plasmid DNA, bacterial and fungal colonies, with post-sequencing analysis options. DNA Sequencing Genetech is an authorised agent for a world-leading company of genomic analysis which provides a wide variety of services including DNA sequencing and oligo nucleotide synthesis. This has enabled Genetech to provide the following services to Sri Lanka at an affordable price range. DNA Sequencing services Capillary Electrophoresis Sequencing CES analyses DNA sequences using Big Dye chemistry (Sanger Sequencing) and the ABI 3730xl analyser. CES can be performed either in individual PCR tubes or in 96 well plates for high throughput sequencing. The reaction can be conducted using both universal as well as custom made primers. The method is commonly used to sequence relatively shorter fragments of DNA for a variety of purposes. Sequencing of PCR products and plasmid CES is generally used for sequencing of PCR products and plasmid DNA up to 1,000 bp in length. A special CES service is also available for the ‘difficult sequencing’ such as high GC rich DNA, homopolymers, repetitive sequences and those with strong secondary structures. In addition, we accept the unamplified DNA and unprocessed biological samples for sequencing services. We also undertake to sequence PCR products containing nonspecific bands. Upon request, post sequence analysis (sequence alignments, phylogenetic tree construction, genome annotation etc.) services are also available to help the researchers interpret the results. Sequencing bacterial and fungal colonies 16S r-RNA gene sequencing is a common method used to identify bacterial species. As per the customer requirement, we undertake to sequence different length options up to 1400 bp. For the sequencing of fungal colonies, we provide three options: 18S rRNA gene (> 1,600 bp guaranteed), 26S rRNA gene (> 1,300 bp guaranteed) and ITS region (> 500 bp guaranteed). We also offer post-sequencing analysis services to assist species identification. Next-Generation Sequencing NGS, massively parallel or deep sequencing are related terms that describe a DNA sequencing technology which has been developed for genomic research during recent years. The technology performs parallel sequencing of millions of DNA fragments which are assembled into single genome using bioinformatics analysis. In contrast to the first-generation Sanger sequencing technology, NGS provides a much more efficient tool enabling the sequencing of the entire human genome within a single day. We offer numerous NGS sequencing techniques such as Whole Genome Sequencing, Metagenome Sequencing, Exome Sequencing, Transcriptome Sequencing and Epigenome Sequencing. Different NGS platforms are available to meet the varying requirement of these techniques. Our scientists will help you choose the best NGS option and platforms depending on your requirement. We also offer to assist in the bioinformatics analysis of NGS data. Contact us
- BSc Research Projects | Genetech
Explore diverse BSc research projects in genetics, biotechnology, and environmental science from various Sri Lankan universities, highlighting innovative studies and methodologies. BSc Research Projects X-Chromosomal recombination – A family study analyzing 7 X-STR loci in Sinhalese. Ruvini Wijithalal, B.Sc. special in Zoology, Department of Zoology and Environment Science, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2019. Detection of gene polymorphism in angiotensinogen protein among chronic kidney disease patients in Sri Lankan population. Sathiyamoorthy Kabaskar, B.Sc. (Hons) in Biomedical Science, School of Biomedical Sciences, British College of Applied Studies (BCAS Campus), 2018. Detection of gene polymorphisms in angiotensin II type 1 receptor among chronic kidney disease patients in Sri Lankan population. Shiyamnesh Ganesh, B.Sc. (Hons) in Biomedical Science, School of Biomedical Sciences, British College of Applied Studies (BCAS Campus), 2018. A population genetic study of six X-STR markers among Sri Lankans and its applicability in resolving forensic and kinship case work in Sri Lanka. Hasna Riyal, Department of Zoology and Environment Science, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2016. Development of a low cost in-house method for the analysis of Y-chromosomal mini STR loci DYS19, DYS388 and DYS390. Anushika B.Sc., Department of Botany, Faculty of Applied Science, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka, 2010. Isolation of OsRDEB2A Gene in Drought Tolerance and Susceptible Rice Varieties and Cloning of OsDREB2A Gene. Thanuja Denipitiya, B.Sc., Molecular Biology & Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2010. Rapid and specific genotyping system for major hepatitis B virus genotypes by PCR using type-specific primers. D. Palika. C. Vithana, B.Sc., Department of Botany, Faculty of Applied Science, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka, 2010. Cloning and Characterization of the Promoter of OSR40c1 Gene (an ABA Responsive, Salinity Induced and Root Specific Gene) from Local Rice Germplasm A. Ishara Sandamali Atukorala, BSc. (Plant Biotechnology), Department of Plant Sciences, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2010. Phylogenetic analysis of Puntius bandula (Bandula Barb) of Sri Lanka using CO1 region of mitochondrial DNA- Tharaka Bhanuguptha, B.Sc. special in Zoology, Department of Zoology, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2009. Development of In-House Low Cost Laboratory Protocols for the Detection of Genetically Modified Food. M. H. Lichchavi Dhananjaya Rajasinghe, B.Sc. in Agricultural Technology & Management, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2009. Screening for the OSr40c1 gene (a novel ABA responsive salinity induced and root specific gene in local rice germplasm Gayani N. Wickramarathna, B.Sc. in Agriculture, Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, 2009. Optimization and establishment of DNA barcoding of tea varieties in Sri Lanka. E. D. Trashila S. Wickremasinghe, B.Sc. in Plant Biotechnology, Department of Botany, University of Sri Jayawardenepura, Sri Lanka, 2009. Development of a PCR-based Molecular Detection Assay for Thielaviopsis paradoxa in Coconut Fibre Dust (CFD). Nimhani. K. Perera, B.Sc., Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management. Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, 2009. Population study of the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) core loci D3S1358, D5S818, D8S1179 short tandem repeat (STR) polymorphisms in Sri Lanka. W. Chatumal, B.Sc. in Natural Sciences, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Open University of Sri Lanka, 2008. Optimizing and field testing methods for DNA barcoding of birds in Sri Lanka. Irushinie R. Wedage, B.Sc., Department of Zoology, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2008. Development of an in-house method for purification and characterization of Taq DNA polymerase. P. V. V. W. Gunathilaka, B.Sc., Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management. Wayamba University of Sri Lanka. 2007. Anchor 1
- Dhammika Gunasekera | Genetech
Explore Dhammika Gunasekera’s journey from Royal College head prefect to Genetech’s owner and philanthropic force in Sri Lanka. Dhammika Gunasekera Owner of Genetech and Managing Trustee of Genetech Research Institute (GRI) Dhammika Gunasekera is the Owner of Genetech after the demise of his beloved wife Dr. Maya Gunasekera, the Founder of Genetech. He is also the owner of Dienge purveyors of handcrafted silver, fine art, gems and jewellery. Dhammika greatly values generosity and helps a large number of people and institutions financially. For example, he has given donations to the Sri Lanka Cancer Society, sponsored the Devapathiraja College (a school founded by his grandfather Sir Ernest De Silva) Rugby team in Rathgama, a rural area in Sri Lanka and met university tuition fees of students. He was a partner at Messrs. U. N. Gunasekera, a construction firm in Sri Lanka established by his father. The first two five-star hotels in Sri Lanka, namely, Lanka Oberoi (Cinnamon Grand) and Ceylon Inter-Continental (Kingsbury) were built by this company. He graduated from Imperial College London in 1989 with first class honours in civil engineering (BEng). Broadening his horizons to the field of accountancy, he became a passed finalist of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka in 1986. Furthermore, he topped his batch in the Bachelor of Science degree that he completed at University of Colombo in 1984. He was also the head prefect of Royal College, Colombo in 1980.
- PhD Projects | Genetech
Explore innovative PhD projects funded by Genetech in Sri Lanka, covering forensic genetics, dengue vector studies, and rice blast resistance. Dive into cutting-edge research and groundbreaking discoveries! Research leading to the award of PhD X-Chromosome markers for forensic genetics in Sri Lanka: development, validation and application of a novel 16 X-STR multiplex assay for the Sri Lankans. K. L. Nandika Perera, Ph.D., Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, The Open University of Sri Lanka, 2021. Population genetic and epidemiological investigation of the dengue vectors Aedes aegypti (L.) and Aedes albopictus (Skuse) in Sri Lanka. M. D. Nirmani, Ph.D., Department of Zoology and Environment Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2021 (Thesis Submitted). DNA marker assisted breeding of rice blast resistant genes into local rice. Ama Jayawardana, Ph.D. Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Colombo; Rice Research and development Institute, Batalagoda, 2019 (Conducted partially at Genetech). Genetic diversity and population structure of ex-situ conserved finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn) accessions in Sri Lanka. Parami Wakista, Ph.D. Department of Botany, Faculty of Applied Science, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, 2017. Development of Mini STR primers in order to enhance sensitivity and amplification efficiency of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) to aid analysis of degraded DNA evidence in Sri Lankan case work. N. D. Suraj Goonawardhana, Ph.D., Department of Zoology Environment Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2016. Characterization and transfer of Drought Responsive Elements Binding (DREB) genes to develop transgenic drought resistant rice. W.S. Imesh De Silva, Ph.D., Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Science, Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2016. Understanding the role of host genetic factors and specific dengue virus epitomes during dengue infection. Anira Fernando, Ph.D., Department of Zoology Environment Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2015. Sustainable insect resistance in local rice varieties. Manisha Gunasekera, PhD, Department of Plant Sciences, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka. 2010 (partially conducted at Genetech). Development of databases for autosomal Y-chromosomal and mitochondrial DNA markers and their application in forensic casework and population genetics in Sri Lankan populations. Ruwan J Illeperuma, PhD, Department of Zoology, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2010. Detection, quantification and characterization of Hepatitis C virus strains in Sri Lanka. Dhammika B. Seneviratne, PhD, Postgraduate Institute of Science, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2010. Severity of dengue disease and the role of different serotypes and genotypes of the causative viruses. Upul Nalaka De Silva Kanakaratne, PhD, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2009.
- Our Values | Genetech
Explore Genetech’s core values: a beacon of positivity, excellence, and integrity, driving innovation and collaboration in the biotech landscape. Our Values Positivity Our commitment to sustain a positive environment for our employees as well as our clients is one of the key factors that set us apart from our competitors. We believe it is essential to encourage people to let go of their past unfavourable experiences and eliminate any pessimistic thoughts about their future. This provides them the opportunity to enjoy the present moment without any distractions, irrespective of the circumstances. Furthermore, it bolsters employee confidence and morale, allowing a highly efficient working culture to be established. The key steps to being always happy involve forgiving others and yourself for any mistakes they or you have made and appreciating the uncertainty of the future as well as the imperfections around us. Thus, we strive to meet our short-term and long-term objectives by planning optimistically and effectively whilst expecting nothing in return. We believe expectations may potentially act as barriers to understanding reality and enjoying every moment, due to the unpredictable future we all have. For example, if an employee is working towards a strict deadline of a major project, they may suffer from anxiety if they start predicting the consequences of not completing their deliverables within the allocated time period. This would potentially be a hindrance to enjoying the work they carry out. Nevertheless, we always aim to exceed our clients’ expectations by offering exceptional customer service. The positive attitude our employees possess to undertake any task with great enthusiasm is what makes us very special. Collaboration Collaboration is at the core of everything we do. We enjoy interacting with various types of people whilst appreciating the cultural diversity that they bring to the community. Our employees are mentored by senior members of the company as well as junior members to guide them to achieve their career goals and provide technical knowledge where necessary. Our team is also trained to have the ability to work independently where required. We understand that every decision we make in life has pros and cons but a person with a positive attitude will be happy with whichever decision they make, provided there are no negative intentions behind the decision. We believe it is possible for any organisation to create a home away from home, if you learn to be compassionate towards others and enjoy every moment irrespective of the im perfections everyone brings to society. Excellence Delivering excellence has always been our main focus as we love inspiring and elevating the communities we touch. This includes integrating cutting-edge DNA fingerprinting technology, engaging in research and contributing to innovative, future-ready solutions, and adopting eco-friendly approaches. We transcend the industry by reimagining the possibilities of expanding our expertise, and our staff are always excited and motivated to devise solutions to complex challenges we could face. To achieve the best possible outcomes, we embrace change and enhancement where necessary, and our employees are passionate to constantly find techniques to develop the services we offer. We continually aim to enhance our work environment with the intention of ensuring our stakeholders enjoy everything we do and love everyone they meet. This stems from the priority given to mental and physical health at Genetech. Indeed, it has also made it very easy for us to grow professionally and build an excellent organisation. Integrity We always act with integrity, and we have strong moral and ethical principles to be followed at all times regardless of the consequences. We believe trust and honesty are central to integrity as well as consistency. Integrity is one of the most important assets we seek when we recruit new employees to join our team. Moreover, we make our decisions on candidates who apply for a job at Genetech based purely on their skills, passion and potential to invigorate us to move forward and achieve greater success as a biotechnology company. We also have built our customers’ trust by obtaining ISO 15189 accreditation and maintaining the standards in all aspects. We believe a workplace with employees whose actions are open and transparent is one that fosters beneficial leadership qualities in others. Treating everyone with respect is absolutely vital to us as our objective is to maintain an organisation that supports you unconditionally, regardless of differences such as sex, age, race, religion and ethnic origin.
- Genetech | Molecular Biology Courses & Internships, DNA Testing, and Molecular Diagnostics | Colombo, Sri Lanka
Join Genetech in Colombo for top molecular biology courses and internships. Get expert DNA services for parentage, disease, genetically modified food testing, animal testing, and more. Industry Based Training Programme This is a full-time programme designed to provide practical training in the applications of Molecular Diagnostics and basic methods in gene technology. It will consist of some lectures to provide students with the necessary theory to understand the applications of these topics, practicals to receive hands-on experience in laboratory techniques and demonstrations covering topics in these subject areas. This programme will be beneficial to local and foreign students awaiting entry into tertiary degree programmes (university) as well as for students that are currently enrolled in tertiary programmes. Dates: 19 - 30 May 2025 (excluding weekends) Duration: 10 weekdays LEARN MORE Our Firm Genetech is a multi-faceted institution and our activities can be broadly categorised into the following areas: Molecular disease diagnostics DNA typing for paternity testing and forensic casework Teaching of basic to advanced molecular biology Training of personnel involved in molecular biology Genetically modified (GM) and other food testing Sex determination of birds Diagnostics of animal diseases Research in the molecular life sciences Customised biotechnology solutions Molecular biology products Read our story View our services Long term internships and research opportunities 6 weeks and upwards Customised individual programmes available CONTACT US Our Leadership Our leaders at Genetech set the policies and the strategic direction of the firm. Collaborating with each other, their knowledge and experience come together to make a positive impact for all our stakeholders - students, patients, healthcare providers and local and global communities. Dr. Maya Gunasekera Founder of Genetech (1961 - 2006) View Profile The working culture is built by leaders who believe empathy is absolutely vital. This is demonstrated by talking and listening to people, understanding what they care about, adapting to their needs and catering to what they want. Dhammika Gunasekera Owner of Genetech and Managing Trustee of Genetech Research Institute View Profile Dr. Nandika Perera Head of Forensic DNA Typing and Parentage Testing View Profile Samudi Mohotti Senior Scientist View Profile Testimonials "The Advanced Certificate Course in Molecular Techniques for DNA Fingerprinting and the Internship Program were exceptional experiences that exceeded my expectations. The program offered abundant hands-on training, allowing me to refine my skills in DNA fingerprinting and genetic testing while gaining exposure to the latest advancements in molecular diagnostics and forensics. The supportive and approachable staff provided personalized guidance, ensuring a deep understanding of both foundational and advanced techniques. This practical, skills-focused approach made me industry-ready, and I was able to secure a job in the same field shortly after completing the program—a true testament to its quality and relevance. This course was worth far more than the investment, offering unparalleled opportunities to improve skills, expand knowledge, and gain a competitive edge in the job market. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to advance their career in molecular biology and diagnostics." Nimasha Liyanagedara, B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. Read more Our Values Positivity Our commitment to sustain a positive environment for our employees as well as our clients is one of the key factors that sets us apart from our competitors Collaboration Collaboration is at the core of everything we do. We enjoy interacting with various types of people whilst appreciating the cultural diversity that they bring to the community. Excellence Delivering excellence has always been our main focus as we love inspiring and elevating the communities we touch. Integrity We always act with integrity, and we have strong moral and ethical principles to be followed at all times regardless of the consequences. Read more
- Molecular Diagnostics | Genetech
Explore Genetech’s trailblazing molecular diagnostics in Sri Lanka, accredited with ISO 15189. Specializing in PCR-based detection of viral, bacterial, and other infectious diseases, genetic disorders, and cancer markers since 2002. Molecular Diagnostics Did you know? We pioneered the use of molecular diagnostics in Sri Lanka. This field, which was almost unknown to the medical fraternity in Sri Lanka is now widely used in delivering high quality patient management. Molecular diagnostics is now an accepted and even essential part of the health care system since it was introduced to Sri Lanka by us in 2002. How we strengthened our clients' trust In order to standardise our tests and strengthen our clients' trust, We have applied for and obtained ISO 15189 accreditation. Thus, our tests including those related to molecular disease diagnostics are excellent in all aspects. The importance of nucleic acids Infectious diseases are caused by a wide variety of organisms, ranging from multi-cellular parasites and fungi to uni-cellular bacteria to non-cellular viruses. These organisms cover a wide range of phyla, and have extremely diverse ways of infecting human beings. In spite of these differences, they all possess nucleic acids (DNA or RNA molecules), their hereditary material. This DNA or RNA forms the basis of their individuality, and because it is the basis of diversity, it is possible to identify these organisms from their DNA or RNA. What we offer with PCR technology Unlike other diagnostic methods, which rely on microscopy, culture, biochemical characteristics and indirect antibody detection, molecular diagnostics seeks evidence of a disease at the very basic causative level by detecting the nucleic acids based on PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) technology. This technology is also used to detect changes or mutations in our DNA, which can cause disease conditions known as genetic disorders. While some of these genetic disorders are passed from generation to generation, some happen spontaneously. Genetech offers DNA-based testing services for a wide variety of such genetic disorders and cancer markers. Contact us View Price List and Sample Collection Guide
- Animal Testing | Genetech
Early diagnosis is crucial for canine health. Our PCR-based tests detect Parvovirus, Ehrlichiosis, and more. Trust us for accurate results. Animal Testing What is Parvovirus and why is early diagnosis essential? Canine Parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious pathogen primarily affecting dogs. This virus can also infect other mammals including cats. If untreated, the risk of death may be high. Thus, a rapid and early diagnosis could save their lives. Detection of the virus can help you select an appropriate treatment regimen for your animals, prevent the spread of the virus and save them from secondary infections. Why we recommend a PCR test over an ELISA test The sensitivity of an ELISA test depends on the Ag/Ab concentration and the availability. Thus, it could lead to false positive or negative results. In contrast, our PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) test detects the viral genome and produces no false positive or negative results. This is because it is dependent on the availability of the virus but not its products or Abs. The positive result of an ELISA test can be caused by organisms other than the target. On the other hand, our PCR test detects genetic sequences unique to the target pathogen. Therefore, its specificity is much higher than an ELISA test. The accuracy of the ELISA test varies, and it depends on the Ag/Ab availability. Our PCR test offers a consistent accuracy of 99%. What is tick fever and why may early detection be crucial? Tick fever is a common canine disease in Sri Lanka which is caused through the bite of an infected tick carrying an insidious and deadly organism. Scientifically, it is known as Canine Ehrlichiosis and Canine Babesiosis. Early detection may prevent the dog from experiencing severe anemic conditions caused by the disease due to the highly pathogenic nature of it. Furthermore, the specific detection will help choose a suitable treatment regimen for your dog. Why microscopy and antibody tests are not ideal Some stages of the parasite life cycle cannot be observed through the microscope. Therefore, the probability of obtaining false results is high. It takes several days to develop antibodies against a certain infection in the body. Hence, it is difficult to diagnose the infection early. Antibodies may be present in the body even after the disease is cured. Thus, if the test is done after the infection is cured, the result may be false positive. What we offer We are the first firm to provide a PCR based animal disease testing service in Sri Lanka. We offer tests which detect Canine Parvovirus, Canine Distemper, Canine Babesiosis and Canine Ehrlichiosis. In addition to animal disease testing, we provide a cattle parentage testing service through the use of DNA typing. Contact us View price list
- Our Leadership | Genetech
Discover Genetech’s legacy through Dr. Maya Gunasekera’s vision, leading Sri Lanka in biotech and forensic innovation. Our Leadership Dr. Maya Gunasekera Founder of Genetech 1961 - 2006 Dr. Maya Gunasekera founded Genetech in 2002 to develop the field of biotechnology in Sri Lanka. She pioneered the use of DNA testing in forensic casework in Sri Lanka, and was involved in almost all DNA typing tests done in Sri Lanka until the time of her death. Research teams led by Maya developed the first DNA probe for the malaria vector, Anopheles culicifacies, introduced a new molecular test for the early diagnosis of dengue, pioneered genetic work on the Sri Lankan elephant and resolved the taxonomic status of a fruit bat species complex. In 1999, Maya gave expert evidence on DNA typing for the Hokandara murder trial making history as the first court case to accept DNA evidence in Sri Lanka. READ MORE Dhammika Gunasekera Owner of Genetech and Managing Trustee of Genetech Research Institute (GRI) Dhammika Gunasekera is the Owner of Genetech after the demise of his beloved wife Dr. Maya Gunasekera, the Founder of Genetech. He is also the owner of Dienge purveyors of handcrafted silver, fine art, gems and jewellery. Dhammika greatly values generosity and helps a large number of people and institutions financially. For example, he has given donations to the Sri Lanka Cancer Society, sponsored the Devapathiraja College (a school founded by his grandfather Sir Ernest De Silva) Rugby team in Rathgama, a rural area in Sri Lanka and met university tuition fees of students. READ MORE Dr. Nandika Perera Head of Forensic DNA Typing and Parentage Testing Dr. Nandika Perera joined Genetech in early 2004 soon after its inception and was part of the pioneering team led by late Dr. Maya Gunasekera, who introduced molecular diagnostics and DNA typing services to Sri Lanka. In subsequent years, he was promoted to the post of Senior Scientist and in 2010, he became the Head of the Parentage Testing Section. Currently, he is also the Head of Forensic DNA typing and has provided more than 2500 DNA typing reports to the Sri Lankan Judiciary. He together with his team has established several in-house molecular diagnostic tests including a test for prenatal diagnosis of thalassemia disease. READ MORE Samudi Mohotti Senior Scientist Samudi Mohotti commenced her professional career at Genetech as a Scientific Officer at the division of parentage testing in 2004. In subsequent years, she was promoted to the post of Senior Scientist and currently oversees the entire process of parentage testing. She is one of the most experienced scientists in the field of DNA typing and has contributed to submit over 3,000 DNA test reports for civil and criminal cases to the Sri Lankan Judiciary. She took part in the development of an allele frequency databases of autosomal STR markers for Sri Lankans ethnicities and co-authored a journal paper in a high-impact journal, Forensic Science International: Genetics. READ MORE