In a groundbreaking achievement, scientists in China have successfully cloned two endangered cattle breeds native to the Xizang Autonomous Region. The Zhangmu and Apeijiaza cattle, both facing threats in their natural habitats, saw the birth of four male calves each in Yunyang County, marking the world's first successful cloning of cattle from Xizang.
Yu Dawei, a researcher at the Institute of Animal Sciences of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, explained the meticulous process behind the cloning success. \"We collected ear tissues from the endangered Zhangmu and Apeijiaza cattle and established fibroblast cell lines in the laboratory. Using somatic cell nuclear transfer technology, we prepared cloned embryos and transplanted them into surrogate cattle,\" Yu detailed to China Media Group.
The initiative is part of a larger rescue and protection program launched in 2022 by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the National Animal Husbandry Station, and local departments in Xizang. This program included extensive data collection, such as whole-genome resequencing, and employed cutting-edge technologies like somatic cell conservation and cloning embryo restoration to safeguard these genetic treasures.
Looking ahead, Yu emphasized the integration of cloning technology with traditional breeding methods. \"Our next steps involve carrying out cloned embryo transplantation of Zhangmu and Apeijiaza cattle in Xizang. By combining these techniques, we aim to establish a comprehensive system for the protection and utilization of our genetic resources,\" he stated.
This landmark cloning success not only represents a significant advancement in conservation science but also underscores China's commitment to preserving its unique and endangered wildlife for future generations.
Reference(s):
China confirms first successful cloning of endangered Xizang cattle
cgtn.com
