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This article was  originally published by RPC  on February 19, 2026. We are sharing the full text here for reference. All rights remain with the original publisher. 

February 19, 2026, Fredericton, NB – RPC announced today a global scientific milestone: its research team has successfully completed the world’s first full sequencing of the Haplosporidium nelsoni (MSX) genome, the pathogen responsible for one of the most economically damaging diseases in oysters.

This breakthrough provides an unprecedented genetic blueprint of the parasite, giving researchers, hatcheries, and industry partners powerful new tools to understand how MSX spreads, how it adapts, and how oysters can be better protected.

“Sequencing the MSX genome gives the oyster industry something it has never had before, a complete map of the pathogen’s biology,” said RPC. “This knowledge will accelerate the development of disease‑resistant oyster strains, improve early detection, and strengthen long‑term sustainability for growers.”

The achievement positions New Brunswick and Canada at the forefront of global aquaculture innovation. With MSX continuing to threaten oyster populations in multiple regions, RPC’s work offers a critical scientific foundation for mitigation strategies, breeding programs, and future diagnostic technologies.

RPC will continue to collaborate with industry, government, and academic partners to translate this genomic insight into practical tools and solutions for oyster producers.

This work was supported by Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) under the Ecosystems and Oceans Science Contribution Framework (Grant #AS-2024-25-003).

The Haplosporidium nelsoni isolate MSX, whole genome shotgun sequencing project GenBank entry can be viewed at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/nuccore/JBUZNT000000000

For more information on RPC’s Shellfish Health Diagnostics services, visit:
https://www.rpc.ca/shellfishhealthdiagnostics

Source: RPC. Original article available here.