Cancer scientists crack the durian genome

KUCHING: Scientists from the Humphrey Oei Institute of Cancer Research at the National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS) and Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore have achieved a world’s first by deciphering the complete genetic map of durian.

Using state- of- the- art sequencing platforms, the team mapped the genome of a particular durian variety called ‘Musang King’ ( Mao Shan Wang in Chinese).

The team’s analysis revealed that the durian genome comprises approximately 46,000 genes – almost double that in humans who have about 23,000 genes.

Based on the newly generated genomic data, the team studied the evolution of durian and traced its relationship 65 million years back to the cacao plant, which produces chocolate, and also focused on what causes the durian’s notorious smell.

Using a next- generation sequencing technology, the team had gained the technological expertise that may also be applied to other plants, including those that may be of medicinal value.

The team notes that besides the specific durian species ( Durio zibethenus) sequenced in this study, there are over 25 other durian species in nature. Some are endangered due to the increasing loss of biodiversity and hence, DNA sequencing is an important tool to protect the precious information contained in these fascinating and important plants.

The team has donated the Durian genome data to the National Parks Board, where they hope it will spur further durian research and education in Singapore and the region. The team also looks forward to working with the National Parks Board’s botanists to study other plants, especially those endangered in the region due to increasing deforestation and industrialisation.

Meanwhile, a press conference on the scientific latest findings will be held at the Singapore National Cancer Centre this Oct 9.