China’s domestically developed deep-sea biological gene sequencer has successfully completed sea trials, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s deep-sea research capabilities.
The innovative equipment, a collaboration between researchers from the Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics and Physics and the Institute of Deep-Sea Science and Engineering under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), underwent rigorous testing in the South China Sea.
From June 3 to June 9, during an expedition aboard the scientific research vessel Tansuo-2, the gene sequencer was deployed twice, reaching depths of up to 1,380 meters. In its first deployment, the device achieved continuous sequencing operations for eight hours. The second deployment saw it complete an entire gene sequencing process over an uninterrupted 30-hour period, successfully identifying DNA samples with high precision.
Over the past five years, the research team has overcome numerous challenges in sequencing methods, big data processing, underwater encapsulation, and the development of self-correcting software. These advancements have culminated in a fully automated, unmanned, and continuous gene sequencing system capable of operating in the extreme conditions of the deep sea.
The success of these sea trials represents a significant advancement in deep-sea exploration technology. The ability to conduct in-situ gene sequencing at great depths opens new avenues for biological and environmental research, allowing scientists to study marine life and ecosystems in their natural habitats more effectively.
This breakthrough not only enhances China’s scientific research capabilities but also contributes valuable data to the global scientific community. The deep-sea gene sequencer is expected to play a crucial role in future oceanographic studies, biodiversity assessments, and the exploration of unknown marine organisms.
Reference(s):
China's deep-sea biological gene sequencer completes sea trial
cgtn.com
