Chinese scientists unveil "super rice" to combat global hunger

In a recent article, Glass Almanac unveils that Chinese scientists have announced a monumental agricultural breakthrough: a new, stress-resistant rice variety engineered to flourish in the most challenging conditions. 

This innovative "super rice," developed through a collaborative effort between the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and Shanghai Jiao Tong University, holds immense promise in the fight against global hunger by dramatically increasing agricultural yields and transforming previously unusable land into fertile farmland.

This pioneering project represents a significant genetic leap forward, building upon the advancements of the Green Revolution. Researchers achieved this by precisely manipulating gibberellin, a vital plant hormone. By expertly regulating gibberellin, they engineered a rice strain capable of enduring severe environmental stresses, particularly soil salinity. This is critical given that approximately 1.4 billion hectares of land—over 10 per cent of the world's total arable land—are impacted by salinity, according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).

Beyond salt resistance, the team identified the ATT1 and ATT2 genes, which confer resistance to alkalinity and heat. Tests under alkaline conditions yielded astounding results, with rice harvests increasing by an impressive 78 per cent to 101 per cent per plot by boosting ATT2 gene expression. This precision in genetic modification not only enhances resilience but also significantly boosts yield, offering a vital tool for maximizing food production amidst unpredictable climate patterns.

The research team is now focusing on converting marginal lands, previously inhospitable due to high salt or alkalinity, into productive agricultural zones using this ATT2 gene technology. This approach could alleviate pressure on traditional farming methods that deplete soil health and reduce reliance on environmentally damaging practices. Furthermore, introducing gibberellic acid, a natural plant hormone, can further enhance the rice's stress tolerance, safeguarding yields against unpredictable weather.

With rice being a staple for nearly half the world's population, especially in Asia, where 90 per cent of global production occurs, this new resilient variety could revolutionize farming in currently unproductive regions. This technological breakthrough positions China as a leader in sustainable agriculture, offering a new path toward eradicating hunger and ensuring a more sustainable future for global food production.

By Naila Huseynova