In response to the contemporary drive towards diminishing antibiotic usage in treating infectious and communicable ailments, coupled with a resolute focus on implementing preventive strategies at an industrial scale, CETGA has embraced the research, development, and manufacturing of veterinary autovaccines as a principal focal point. For this purpose, we’ve assembled a team of highly specialized experts and, since 2011, established a dedicated laboratory equipped specifically for autovaccine production, duly sanctioned by regulatory authorities (authorization number: 15-73-002AUT). Our primary endeavors have been centered on formulating autovaccines against diseases instigated by protozoa and bacteria in aquatic species. These vaccines have been successfully introduced to leading companies within the aquaculture sector, both nationally and internationally. We operate a cutting-edge molecular and cellular biology laboratory, housing a range of equipment for genetic assays (including thermal cyclers, real-time PCR equipment, microcentrifuges, PCR cabinets, electrophoresis gear), immunoassays (featuring equipment for mini and maxi protein gels, Western blot and ELISA setups, plate readers, cuvettes, and microdrops), as well as cell culture assays (boasting a Class II biological safety cabinet, CO2 incubators, and more). The molecular biology techniques developed in recent years stand as pivotal tools for pathogen identification, offering advancements in time and cost efficiency, as well as result reliability. Through the application of these techniques, we are proficient in swiftly and accurately diagnosing major fish pathologies of bacterial, viral, or parasitic origins. This capability not only aids in prognosis and treatment of these diseases but also contributes to disease control, thereby fostering enhanced productivity within the aquaculture sector. Furthermore, our specialized technical team excels in devising and implementing analyses, facilitating tailor-made adjustments or adaptations of techniques to meet specific client needs. This includes exploring novel pathogens from varied sources, different sample types, and more. Since 2013, CETGA has been granted authorization for its Animal Experimentation Area, sanctioned by the Xunta de Galicia. This facility enables the conduction of fish-based tests in full accordance with Royal Decree 53/2013 of 1 February, which outlines the fundamental regulations applicable to the welfare of animals utilized in experimentation and other scientific pursuits, encompassing educational purposes as well. The team at CETGA possesses the requisite expertise for operating within the animal facility. Additionally, CETGA offers training programs designed to secure and uphold qualifications essential for engaging in animal experimentation activities, as outlined in Order ECC/566/2015 of 20 March. This order stipulates the training requisites for individuals involved in the handling of animals destined for experimental and scientific use, including educational contexts. Our Animal Experimentation Area boasts a comprehensive suite of equipment and capabilities for diverse test scenarios. From inquiries pertaining to animal health, encompassing efficacy, safety, and toxicity assessments, to a spectrum of investigations spanning animal welfare, ecological dynamics, immunological responses, nutritional interactions, and genetic explorations, among others. The Chemical Analysis Laboratory operates at the forefront of analytical capabilities, adeptly performing a wide spectrum of analyses while tailoring analytical processes to align with regulations or the specific requirements of our clients. Our laboratory is fortified with advanced technology, encompassing both gas and liquid chromatographs. Our analysis portfolio spans from the physicochemical characterization of water and foodstuffs to the determination of environmental parameters. We also conduct evaluations of compounds essential for the center’s experimental tests. Notable areas of expertise include: Physicochemical analysis of freshwater and seawater, encompassing ammonium, nitrites, nitrates, phosphates, pH, conductivity, suspended solids, and total dissolved solids. Proximal food analysis, involving wet weight, dry weight, ash content, protein content, and total fat content. Quantitative and qualitative analyses conducted via gas or liquid chromatography (HPLC), encompassing amino acids, fatty acids, antibiotics, and PCBs. CETGA operates a state-of-the-art microbiology laboratory dedicated to microbiological diagnostics, employing a blend of biochemical and molecular techniques honed through years of research at the center, complemented by the incorporation of the latest advancements in the field. These diagnostic methods are applied to both biological samples from aquaculture-reared fish and seawater. Accumulating years of research, CETGA possesses a comprehensive array of environmental and pathogenic marine bacterial strains, facilitating a multitude of research endeavors with efficacy. Highlighted among these studies are biocide susceptibility tests, antibiograms, and other analyses centered on pathology control. These initiatives have not only contributed to the evolution of several biocide products now in use across various production facilities but have also yielded insights pivotal for the field’s advancement. CETGA’s service offerings to industry stakeholders are characterized by bespoke attention to each farm’s unique needs. This includes vigilant monitoring of the efficacy of supplied autovaccines, pinpointing influential critical factors, and devising tailored solutions that harmonize with the distinct circumstances of each farm. The primary goals of the Sample Preparation Laboratory encompass acquiring proficiency in analytical methodologies, adeptly identifying analytical challenges for subsequent resolution, comprehending the steps integral to the analytical process, and categorizing key operations associated with sample handling. CETGA’s dedicated Cell Culture Laboratory is focused solely on nurturing established cell lines and primary cultures. The facility is outfitted with specialized apparatus tailored for conducting cell culture research, including Class II laminar flow biosafety cabinets, CO2 incubators, and CO2-free incubators designed for fish cell lines. Additional equipment encompasses an inverted optical microscope with a camera, a centrifuge, a microplate reader, an electroporator, and a liquid nitrogen tank. The laboratory’s primary endeavors encompass the generation and purification of monoclonal antibodies through hybridoma production, along with the cultivation of fish cell lines and primary cultures. These activities serve to monitor functional effects and evaluate the cytotoxicity of diverse compounds. Our comprehensive pilot plant is thoughtfully equipped with all requisite facilities to support the complete cultivation of various species. Our proven expertise extends across a range of species, including turbot, sole, sea bass, sea bream, and grouper. Within our facility, we maintain auxiliary culture chambers for artemia, rotifers, and phytoplankton, as well as dedicated spaces for larvae, pre-fattening, fattening, broodstock, and incubation. The plant features an array of purpose-built tanks of varying sizes, meticulously designed to accommodate diverse experimentation and testing requirements. Additionally, we’ve set up a specialized pathology chamber for conducting a wide array of pathogenicity tests and vaccine evaluations, among other research pursuits.
Autovaccine Laboratory
Molecular Biology Laboratory
Animal Experimentation Laboratory
Chemical Analysis Laboratory
Microbiology Laboratory
Sample Preparation Laboratory
Cell Culture Laboratory
Microscopy Laboratory
Pilot plant
