China, Pakistan joint lab to boost wheat innovation by using germplasm exchange and molecular research.
A collaboration agreement for the China-Pakistan Joint Laboratory for Wheat Germplasm Innovation and Biological Breeding has been established between Hebei Agricultural University (HEBAU), COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), and the National Institute for Genomics and Advanced Biotechnology (NIGAB). This initiative marks a major advancement in developing the wheat seed industry and related agricultural sectors in both nations.
According to Professor Liu Dongcheng, Dean of the College of Agronomy at HEBAU, wheat holds strategic significance for both China and Pakistan. Due to the geographical differences between the two countries, there exists a vast genetic diversity in wheat germplasm, which provides immense potential for variety improvement through germplasm exchange.
Professor Liu highlighted that China excels in basic research and molecular breeding, whereas Pakistan has significant expertise in soilless cultivation and tissue culture. Through this collaboration, the efficiency and productivity of both high and low amylose wheat varieties can be enhanced. Low amylose wheat can significantly improve the quality of Chapati, a staple food in Pakistan, while high amylose wheat is beneficial for diabetics and supports weight management. Currently, joint research is underway on “Rapid Improvement of Starch Quality in Wheat and Cultivation of New Wheat Varieties by Genomics.” China has introduced high amylose wheat germplasms along with high-yielding and nutrient-rich wheat germplasms from Pakistan containing iron and zinc.
The joint laboratory will focus on molecular breeding research to enhance protein, starch, and nutritional content in Pakistan’s high-yield wheat varieties. The goal is to develop new wheat strains with high and low amylose content for both countries. Additionally, the partnership between HEBAU and Pakistani institutions will expand beyond wheat research to include basic studies, breeding applications, cultivation techniques, and machinery production for crops like wheat, corn, and cotton. Future collaboration is also expected in the grain, oil, vegetable, fruit, and livestock industries.
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