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Illustration (Photo: Genomeindia) |
On January 16, Dr. Pham Si Tan – Deputy Director of the Mekong Delta Rice Institute – announced that after three years of collaboration with American agronomists, the institute has successfully researched and applied gene transfer technology in the laboratory to create a new rice variety rich in micronutrients.
The genetically modified rice variety has been bred from three rice strains: IR64, MTL250, and Taipei 309. Initially, the institute will undertake experimental cultivation of this new rice variety for about a year in various ecological zones within the Mekong Delta region. Subsequently, it will undergo evaluation by the scientific council of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development before being released for mass production.
According to Dr. Tran Thi Cuc Hoa – Head of the Biotechnology Department at the institute, this new rice variety contains high levels of micronutrients such as vitamins A and E, iron, and zinc, which are essential for human health. Additionally, it significantly increases the amount of oryzanol, which has antioxidant properties and helps reduce cholesterol levels in the blood. Laboratory tests show that this genetically modified rice variety is resistant to pests and diseases, ensures biological safety, is easy to cultivate, and can be utilized for commercial rice production.
TRAN DUC
