November 23, 2020

Chinese scientists lay foundation for African swine fever vaccine

Scientists in China showcased the African swine fever (ASF) virus architecture and implications for viral assembly, creating the foundation for an ASF vaccine development at the Forum 2020 on Science and Technology for Agricultural and Rural Development, Xinhua reported.

This breakthrough was among the 10 advances by Chinese agricultural scientists in 2019 announced at the event, five of which involved gene-editing technology.

In another research, Chinese scientists identified a gene in teosinte, maize's wild ancestor. Using the gene, they altered maize to give it a narrow shape and improved high-density maize yields.

Also showcased in another study from the Agricultural Information Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences was the editing of four genes in hybrid rice, resulting in plants that could propagate clonally through seeds. The result could change crop breeding patterns and the seed industry.

-      Xinhua