The initiative combines digital transformation with DNA sequencing technology to enhance the management, conservation and utilisation of genetic resources. Authorities say the approach is helping to modernise conservation practices while creating a foundation for scientific research and development.
Previously, genetic resource conservation at the Center for Application of Scientific and Technological Advances under the Department of Science and Technology relied largely on laboratory specimen storage and scattered paper records. The system made information retrieval and updates difficult and increased the risk of data loss over time.
To overcome these challenges, the centre developed and launched a centralised database and management platform for plant and microbial genetic resources at gen.gialai.gov.vn. The system is designed to store, manage, analyse and exploit genetic resource data through a unified digital platform.
Each genetic resource is documented with a detailed biological profile, including its scientific name, biological characteristics, distribution area, growth conditions and DNA sequence. The approach enables the synchronised conservation of both physical specimens and genetic information.
“The development of a digital database marks a fundamental shift in genetic resource conservation methods,” said Lê Minh Hải, Director of the Center for Application of Scientific and Technological Advances. “Current management is data-driven, allowing specialists to efficiently analyse, assess and utilise genetic information for research and development”.
Developed in 2025, the management software includes seven core functions: gene sample management, information search and retrieval, DNA sequence analysis, data statistics and visualisation, report generation, user management and authorisation, and information security. The integrated functions allow continuous updates and efficient data utilisation.
A key feature of the platform is the assignment of a unique QR code to every gene sample. The codes enable specialists to track specimens from their physical form to their corresponding digital records. By scanning a QR code, users can instantly access all information related to a genetic resource, improving management accuracy and traceability.
The system also supports automatic data imports from specialised formats such as FASTA, CSV and MEGA, helping to standardise information, reduce processing times and minimise data-entry errors.
Researchers can conduct advanced analyses, including DNA sequence length assessment, GC content calculation, motif identification and DNA-to-protein translation. The resulting data can be used to evaluate the quality and characteristics of genetic resources.
Analysis results are presented through statistical charts and geographic distribution maps, allowing management agencies to monitor the status and distribution of genetic resources throughout the province. Officials say the information provides an important basis for policy planning and future development strategies.
To ensure the quality of genetic data, the centre employs the next-generation Illumina iSeq100 DNA sequencing system. The technology combines Sequencing by Synthesis and Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor chip technologies to support precise genetic analysis.
Samples undergo DNA extraction and PCR amplification before sequencing. The resulting genetic information is compared with international gene banks, including NCBI, to accurately identify species and establish phylogenetic relationships for research subjects.
The centre currently conserves and stores a range of plant, microbial, edible mushroom and medicinal mushroom genetic resources for research, application and production purposes. Practical assessments indicate that many of these resources have already contributed to scientific research and production development, while providing a reserve of biological materials when needed.
To date, the database contains information on 11 genetic resources. Plant resources include Dendrobium orchids, Anoectochilus orchids, bellflowers and nipa palms. The microbial collection includes Lactobacillus acidophilus, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Bacillus subtilis. The edible and medicinal mushroom group comprises lingzhi mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, king oyster mushrooms and cordyceps.
Alongside maintaining the system in accordance with regulatory requirements, the centre plans to continue surveying and collecting information on local genetic resources to expand the database and increase its practical value.
Future upgrades are expected to include additional user approval functions and expanded information fields to accommodate growing data management needs.
According to Hải, the long-term objective is to establish a comprehensive provincial digital gene bank capable of supporting biodiversity conservation and socio-economic development. He said the database system being developed today will serve as a critical foundation for future generations to systematically and sustainably utilise the value of local genetic resources.