BIOTECHNOLOGY

Through quantitative trait locus mapping and comprehensive literature mining, we have identified molecular markers tightly linked to key traits and implemented marker-assisted selection to accelerate breeding efficiency. We have developed markers for rice blast resistance, bacterial blight resistance, grains per panicle, and grain quality in rice; leaf curl and late blight resistance in tomato; bacterial wilt resistance in eggplant; and high oleic acid content in peanut.

   Leveraging next-generation sequencing, we have mined single nucleotide polymorphisms across a range of vegetable crops and converted them into markers for hybrid seed purity testing, variety identification, inbred-line purification, and genetic background screening-technologies now transferred to seed producers for crops including heading Chinese cabbage, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, tomato, loofah, and cantaloupe.

   Additionally, we established PCR-based assays for the detection of genetically modified papaya, maize, and soybean, conducting annual field sampling in our jurisdiction to ensure the absence of GMO cultivation domestically.