Enabling standardised measurements with a new DNA reference material
The newly developed reference material will make it easier to compare similar data across sectors.
A new DNA reference material is currently under development to support SAAFE researchers. The work is part of a Kickstart project undertaken by researchers at the National Measurement Institute (NMI).
A reference material (RM) is a consistent, well characterised benchmark that can be used to validate scientific methods and ensure their results are accurate and comparable. The new DNA RM is being designed for use as a calibrant or positive control for use with DNA amplification methods such as quantitative PCR or digital PCR.
One of the benefits of the SAAFE approach is that it brings together multiple sectors to tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR). A shared reference material makes it possible to compare data between groups, as researchers are able to report results in consistent units, enabling data to be pooled for drawing broader conclusions.
“CRC SAAFE is really interesting because it covers many different sectors; that's the beauty of the whole One Health approach. But this means you've got multiple independent research teams all developing their own capabilities and creating data... our focus is on how to make DNA measurements comparable"
The Kickstart project aims to create a common benchmark, with a single DNA sequence including PCR targets for different sectors to use as a calibration tool.
This synthetic DNA will include a range of targets, allowing different groups to use the same material without altering their current workflows. Laboratories using the RM will not have to change their assays. Using the reference material means data will be measured in units that allow more interlinking between studies. For example, results will be expressed in copy number concentration, creating a common language across studies.
The first step in designing the RM was to gauge the needs of SAAFE researchers. NMI distributed a comprehensive questionnaire to selected recipients, asking about their current workflows, measurement methods and units, and wish list of DNA targets. Recipients included researchers who are designing assays, measurement devices or creating data, as well as teams who are using data from multiple sectors for modelling.
Based on their responses, and more detailed feedback from follow-up interviews, a shortlist of DNA targets is being drawn up. For example, some groups want to target an integrase gene or an AMR gene, while others might be interested in wild-type and mutated versions of a particular fungal gene.
Some targets are specific to a project, and some are quite generic depending on what their measurement challenge is.
Once the list of targets has been finalised, the RM will be synthesised in the USA. The NMI team will then accurately quantify the RM using digital PCR, prepare dilution series, and aliquot and label the material for distribution to participating research groups.
NMI hopes that this project will encourage researchers to think more broadly about how RMs can support their work and improve data quality and consistency, commenting:
"Our fundamental role is supporting Australian industry. But there’s also an educational aspect, where we learn how best to work with different sectors and how to help them understand what we do.”
The project was funded through SAAFE's 2025 Kickstart call for projects supporting the development or deployment of field-based diagnostic tools, and is part of the SAAFE Monitoring Program.