PERSPECTIVES ON GENETICS IN CHINA

The long civilization of China traces its origin to the development of agriculture. Early records and archaeological findings demonstrate th e success of plant and animal breeding in contributing to human liveli hood and the national economy. Teaching and research in modern genetic s began in China in the 1920s with individuals who received advanced t raining in the West. Over the following 30 years, notable contribution s to genetics, both basic and applied, were made by Chinese scientists in universities and research institutions. Unfortunately, these activ ities were brought to a virtual standstill first by the official advoc acy of Lysenkoism, followed by ten years of Cultural Revolution. Schoo ls were closed and scientific research was interrupted. Not until 1978 did the universities begin to enroll new students and scientific rese arch, including genetics, again receive endorsement. Since then, Chine se scientists have resumed contacts with colleagues in other countries and publication of their research findings in national and internatio nal journals. The material summarized in this article covers a long ti me span and a broad spectrum of scientific subjects and events. Repres entative examples of Chinese contributions to various areas of genetic s are cited to depict the history, current status, and prospects for t he development of genetics in China. After many ups and downs and desp ite limitations in material resources, the study of genetics in China seems to be on a sound footing, with a relatively complete system in p lace for training workers in this discipline.