The Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology (IGDB) of CAS – 中国科学院遗传研究所 was founded in 2001 through the merger of three CAS institutes: the Institute of Genetics, the Institute of Developmental Biology, and the Shijiazhuang Institute of Agricultural Modernization.
The institute uses plant and animal models to conduct research in areas such as genetic control of growth and development, gene expression, signal transduction, structural and functional genomics, biotechnology, molecular breeding, bioinformatics, and systems biology. Its primary goals are to develop key technologies in these fields and foster innovation in modern agriculture and population health.
IGDB researchers have made significant contributions to biosafety, water-saving agriculture, and agronomy, with a focus on improving crop productivity and quality. The institute operates five research centers, specializing in genome biology, molecular agrobiology, developmental biology, molecular systems biology, and agro-resources. It is home to the following key laboratories:
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Cell and Chromosome Engineering
- National Key Laboratory of Molecular and Developmental Biology
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Water-Saving Agriculture
Additionally, the National Plant Gene Research Center in Beijing is affiliated with the institute.
IGDB has collaborated with local partners to establish several high-tech breeding centers focused on the molecular breeding of rice, wheat, cotton, and vegetables. It also maintains partnerships with institutions, universities, and companies worldwide. The Genetic Society of China is affiliated with the institute, which also houses the editorial offices of three major journals: Journal of Genetics and Genomics, Hereditas (Beijing), and Chinese Journal of Eco-Agriculture.
More information: http://english.genetics.cas.cn/abs/ovew/.
