Rice genes cloned by Chinese scientists

Wuhan (CNS) -- Academician Zhang Qifa of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) has led his research team at Huazhong Agricultural University (HZAU) in the successful cloning of the photosensitive nucleic male sterility gene (pms3 genes), the university announced on Wednesday.

The pms3 genes is used in two-line hybrid rice cultivation method, which is simpler in crossbreeding and production of hybrid seeds, and less demanding of the hybridization process than the traditional three-line hybrid rice. The advancement will significantly cut the cost of seeds.

The breakthrough involved 25 years of hard work before the team finally conquered this challenge, a keystone in China's strategic science and technology development plan.

Recent proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, U.S., published a paper on pms3 genes with Dr. Ding Jihua at HZAU as leading author.