PGI is the only company in the world with exclusive rights to commercialize the intellectual property from a unique and reproductively superior colony of mice based at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College, where our research is carried out. Using this resource, PGI identified the first gene to be associated with reproductive longevity in 2002. Our first DNA marker, based on this gene, was first marketed in 2004. Recently, a whole genome scan has identified genes and pathways related to reproductive longevity in mice. This is the basis for further research in mice to study the role of certain pathways and genes, to elucidate the genetic basis of variation in reproductive longevity and to identify products that impact RL. This research is the foundation for the development of DNA markers which are sold to commercial breeders for selective breeding of various livestock species. On the human side, the results in mice provide the starting point for the development of tests to predict the duration of the reproductive window in women and products to enhance it.

To assist with the development and marketing of the DNA markers, PGI has a strategic partnership with Stonebridge Breeding, a UK consulting and investment company operating at the interface of animal breeding and genomics. Through this partnership, PGI is able to leverage product development expertise, and knowledge of the international market to develop the route to market. PGI is currently seeking partners in the cattle, pig and poultry industries in order to expand and accelerate this process.

PGI’s research team operates out of the Nova Scotia Agricultural College (NSAC), where the mouse colony is housed in a bio-secure facility. A privately-held company, PGI was incorporated in Nova Scotia in 1997.