Published in Probe Volume 3(1-2): January-June 1993
Guo-Fan Hong, Head
Rice Genome Research Program
Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry
Academia Sinica
Shanghai, China
The Chinese Rice Genome Research Program (RGP) is one effort initiated to help modernize China's agriculture. China possesses the largest rice-producing land area in the world--rice output accounts for about half of the country's total grain yield.
China has a long history in rice cultivation and accumulated experiences in breeding. The results obtained from RGP will be applied to plant breeding. New concepts derived from the research should prove useful in improving one's understanding of the plant life phenomena as a whole.
Research Areas
The mapping and sequencing of the entire rice genome is expected to be completed in about 15 years, so that the complex genetic machinery of the entire genome would be elucidated at the DNA level.
The extent to which the DNA sequences will be determined will depend on the degree of development in related fields of technology. Currently research is focused on the following:
(1) Isolating, characterizing, and sequencing genes of
biological importance;
2) Characterizing and mapping agronomically important
genes, and applying the results to breeding when possible;
(3) Constructing an ordered set of genomic DNA clones,
used toconstruct physical and genetic maps of the chromosomes;
(4) Elucidating the mechanisms for coordinated and
programmed gene expression; and
(5) Establishing an internationally connected computer
center.
Gene Research Center
Under the State Commission of Science and Technology (SCST) the scientific board that directs RGP was established. Consigned by SCST, the Chinese Academy of Sciences will establish a National Center for Gene Research (NCGR) in Shanghai. NCGR's primary responsibilities will be as follows:
(1) Carrying out the RGP in full scale, and
coordinating research activities nationwide;
(2) Collecting materials and analyzing data;
(3) Providing quality control; and
(4) Organizing scientific meetings and promoting
international academic exchange.
Satellite Laboratories
In addition to NCGR, five satellite laboratories will be assigned research tasks based on their respective expertise. These laboratories are located in the Institute of Genetics, the Chinese Academy of Sciences; Beijing University; Hua-Zhong Agricultural University; Fudan University; and the National Rice Institute.
Funding
Approximately $4 million (23 million yuan) has been allocated by the Chinese government to support the program for the first 5 years. During this period, some adjustments may be made to meet new development requirements.
Collaborative Effort
Participants in RGP anticipate international collaboration and hope to share their research results with interested scientists worldwide.
For more information, contact the Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry, Academia Sinica, 320 Yue-Yang Road, Shanghai, 200031 China. Phone: +86-21-4374430; FAX +86-21-4338357.