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They include Shenzhen-based genome sequencing giant BGI, the Institute of Botany of Chinese Academy of Sciences and South China Agricultural University, Shenzhen Graduate School of Tsinghua University, Ghent University in Belgium, and National Cheng Kung University in Taiwan.
The complete genome sequencing of phalaenopsis equestris will provide an important resource to explore orchid diversity and evolution at the genome level. It will also be a key resource for the development of new concepts and techniques in genetic engineering, such as molecular marker-assisted breeding and the production of transgenic plants, which are necessary to increase the efficiency of orchid breeding and aid orchid horticulture research.
Sixty-seven orchid species can be found in Shenzhen, two of which are indigenous to the city.
Professor Liu Zhongjian from Shenzhen Orchid Conservation and Research Center said that the research results would be applied to related fields in the biological chain, including biomedicine and cosmetics.
He said that scientists have carried out experiments on mice with the findings and are applying for approval for clinical use.
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