Whole genome sequencing analysis can provide valuable information on the taxonomic identification of the strains and their potential functional traits, including virulence factors, resistance to antimicrobials, and production of toxic metabolites.

At TAXON, we have developed a proprietary tool that establishes the microbial functional profile based on genomic functions. Our genomic characterization analyses help to support risk assessment for microorganisms seeking approval from regulatory agencies such as the European Union Food Safety Authority (EU/EFSA) and the United States Food and Drug Administration (US-FDA).

Furthermore, as the genome of producer microbes constitutes the inventive part of a productive process, complete genome sequencing is required during patent applications. Finally, by linking genotype with phenotype, companies can select the most suitable microbial candidates to develop their products, relying on our microbial functional profiles.

The service offered by TAXON involves the complete characterization of microbial strains, which is essential for the development and optimization of microorganisms used in food ingredients or as production strains. This service includes complete genome-based strain characterization required for EFSA approval and claims, screening for antibiotic resistance and virulence genes, plasmid detection and identification, and gene of interest screening. TAXON has significant expertise and years of experience in this field.

Deliverables of Genomic Characterization service:

• Circular representation of the genome (in svg format).
• The list of relevant features found (in csv, tsv and/or xlxs formats).
• The region of a sequence of interest (in Genbank format)
• Absence/presence table of the gene of interest (in csv, tsv and/or xlxs formats).
• A complete report describing methods and results (in PDF format)

See Our Services in Practice