The Center for Application of Scientific and Technological Advances under the provincial Department of Science and Technology has developed a centralized database and management software for plant and microbial genetic resources, accessible at gen.gialai.gov.vn. The system represents a fundamental change from manual, fragmented preservation to integrated digital management combined with advanced biotechnology.
“Previously, we mainly preserved specimens in laboratories. Now, each genetic resource has a complete biological profile, from scientific name and distribution to growth conditions and DNA sequence,” said Chau Phan Kim Dieu, an officer at the Center. “We have shifted from being specimen custodians to biological data managers.”
To date, the Center has conserved materials from 12 genetic resources across plants, microorganisms, and edible and medicinal mushrooms. DNA sequencing has been completed for seven genetic resources, while gene sequence data for 11 subjects have been uploaded to the system. Many of these resources have high economic and practical value, including Anoectochilus setaceus, Dendrobium orchids, nipa palm, cordyceps mushrooms and production-related microbial strains.
The establishment of the “digital gene bank” involves two parallel tasks: sequencing genetic material and building a comprehensive data management system. DNA sequencing enables the decoding of genetic information, while gen.gialai.gov.vn functions as a digital library for systematic storage, analysis and utilization of genetic data.
The platform integrates multiple functional modules, including gene sample management, information search and retrieval, DNA sequence analysis, data statistics, report generation, user access control and information security. As a result, genetic data is not only securely preserved but also becomes a resource for research, conservation planning and biological product development.
A key feature is the integration of QR codes into gene sample management. Each specimen is assigned a digital identifier, allowing tracking and cross-referencing between physical samples and digital records throughout the conservation lifecycle. Scanning a QR code instantly displays all related information, replacing traditional manual record-keeping.
The system also supports automated data imports from specialized formats such as FASTA, MEG and CSV, helping standardize data, shorten processing times and reduce errors. Advanced search and analysis functions allow users to filter genetic resources by DNA sequence length, GC content or specific motifs. Integrated analytical tools translate DNA into protein sequences and visualize results through charts and distribution maps, offering a comprehensive overview of the province’s genetic resources.
Data security is treated as a priority. Dinh Xuan Nhat, Deputy Director of the Center, said genetic data is a valuable scientific asset linked to the province’s long-term interests. The system therefore incorporates multiple layers of protection, including multi-factor authentication, firewalls, access controls and continuous monitoring of user activity.
Experts say the core value of digital transformation in gene conservation lies not only in preservation but also in the ability to convert scientific data into development resources. Standardized, centralized genetic data can significantly accelerate research, technology transfer and product development.
To ensure data quality, the Center has invested in international-standard SBS DNA sequencing technology using the Illumina iSeq100 machine. Specimens are extracted, amplified and sequenced before being cross-referenced with global gene databases.
According to Mr. Nhat, analysis results indicate that some local genetic resources closely resemble international standard strains while also exhibiting unique genetic variations. This provides a scientific basis for breeding, medicinal plant development and high-tech agriculture. In the near future, the Center plans to introduce valuable plant varieties from other localities to expand the gene bank.
The gen.gialai.gov.vn platform can be likened to a “DNA barcode library,” where each genetic resource is preserved both physically and digitally. By integrating biotechnology with digital management, Gia Lai is opening new pathways to transform genetic resources into scientific and economic assets that support sustainable development.
