OREANDA-NEWS  A network system of plant genetic resources with digitized data on more than 15 thousand samples of various crops was created on the basis of the All-Russian Institute of Plant Genetic Resources named after N. I. Vavilov (VIR). The digital database prepared by VIR specialists in partnership with five other institutes will form the basis of the future unified state information system, VIR Director Elena Khlestkina told TASS on Friday following the results of the forum "Genetic Resources of Russia".

"Together with our colleagues on the project, within the framework of the Federal Scientific and Technical Program for the Development of Genetic Technologies 2019-2030, we have successfully launched a network system that combines digitized data on more than 15 thousand samples of various cultures stored by us and our partners. The system has been launched, its structure, functionality and interface have been fully developed, and with the creation of an appropriate state platform in the future, it will be able to form its basis," Khlestkina told the agency.

She stressed that the creation of such systems is an important event for the joint work of geneticists and breeders in the study and improvement of agricultural crops. According to her, networking is necessary, especially when working with perennial crops, for example, fruit. Unlike seeds, it is impossible to collect them in one place - different varieties are stored in the corresponding climatic zones of the country.

The joint work of specialists of different profiles allowed us to build an understandable system. For example, researchers have created digital dictionaries for users who do not specialize in botanical classification. The project will ensure constant horizontal interaction of institutes, which will allow working on the conservation and study of plant genetic resources as quickly and conveniently as possible.