Genetic resources are the biological basis of global food security and directly or indirectly support human livelihoods through the food, medicine, animal feed, fibre, clothing, housing, energy and many other products and services they provide. They consist of the diversity of genetic material present in traditional varieties and modern plant stocks, as well as crop wild relatives and other natural plant species that It can be used now or in the future for food and agriculture.
Objective
Collecting and conserving plant genetic resources, from erosion and extinction.
Exchanging information concerning genetic resources with local and international gene banks.
Identifying the core collection of genetic resources that can be utilized in both public and private research and breeding programs.
Developing plans for a collection of genetic resources to ensure the safety of these resources and to provide the different breeding programs with the required genetic materials and relative information.
Characterization of the collected genetic resources.
To address the prevailing conditions of climate change for agricultural research and breeding towards achieving food security.
Strengthen the international cooperation in the field of genetic resources.
Enhancing public awareness of genetic resources maintenance to protect the national resources against erosion and to regulate the utilization of such resources.
Participating in exploration missions intended for collecting genetic resources from their native habitat.
Facilitating the exchange of genetic resources and implementation of the intellectual property legislation concerning national genetic resources.
Documenting the Egyptian genetic resources on the NGB database.
Activities
Seeds storage
In the NGB, two different forms of packing are used: plastic packing is used in both the active storage room (-5), as well as the temporary storage room (+5). while we are using specialized aluminum foil at the base storage room (-20) to preserve the samples in cold storage for an extended period.
Characterization
The description must be in the way that the breeder and the various breeding programs are benefited from; there are morphological traits with high hereditary ability that are important in breeding programs, and there are various other traits of high agricultural value that must also be recorded to characterise and identify those inputs and make full use of those genetic resources.
Notable: Characterization is carried out using international models UPOV- IPGRI.
Evaluation
It is the process of testing genetic resources by evaluating the important genetic traits carried by these germplasms that are affected by different degrees under 9 different environmental conditions such as resistance to pests and diseases or the quality of their seeds. Also, the assessment of all genetic resources for their tolerance to adverse conditions (such as tolerance to salinity – drought – heat) and vital stresses (such as: tolerance to disease, insect and pest infestation) in different regions.
Regeneration
Propagation is a major process and an integral part of the responsibility of any genebank that maintains traditional seeds. It is a process that increases the seeds (A) (B) 8 stored in the genebank and/or increases the viability of the seeds to equal or greater than the agreed minimum level. The sample is renewed if it no longer contains enough seeds for long-term storage (i.e. 1,500 seeds for self-pollinating species and 3,000 for out crossings) or when its viability falls below a specified minimum threshold (i.e., less than 85 percent of initial germination of stocked seeds). And if the demand for one of the registered samples is rare and its validity is impeccable, then the number of seeds can reach less than 1000 before renewal. Regeneration should be performed when viability drops below 85 percent of the original viability or when the amount of seed remaining is less than necessary for three cycles of the representative population of Bank-registered samples and the oldest original sample specimen should be used for regeneration of registered samples.
distribution
Gene banks aim to make available to users as many recorded samples as possible, including associated data. If stocks are depleted, samples should be multiplied to meet user demands as a matter of priority, and gene banks that maintain working collections should enhance the availability of genetic resources for uses including research, breeding, education, agriculture and reintroduction. At the international level, gene banks can be a source for providing supplies of wild origin PGR to countries that are setting up their own gene banks.
Seeds are distributed in compliance with national laws and relevant international treaties and agreements.
Submit seed samples with all relevant documents required by the recipient country
The time between receiving a seed request and sending, it is kept to a minimum
Staff
Prof. Dr. Soliman Abdelmaaboud Abdelmaaboud Arab +20 100 322 5345 Solimanngb@gmail.com
Herbarium is a museum collection of preserved NBG plant specimens and associated data. These specimens may be whole plants or plant parts: these will usually be in a dried form, mounted on a sheet, but depending upon the material may also be kept in alcohol or other preservatives. The specimens in herbarium are often used as reference material in describing plant taxa; some specimens may be types.
Importance of herbarium in NGB
Herbaria are essential for studying plant taxonomy, phylogenetic, geographic distributions, monitoring biodiversity, and identifying the flora of an area. Herbaria also preserve a historical record of change in vegetation over time, environmental scientists use such data to track changes in climate and human impact.
Preparing the herbarium specimens
Collection
The first step is to collect a plant’s genetic resources as complete as possible. A small herb always with root, tree or shrubs a branch with well-developed leaves, if possible, also with flowers or fruits, well do. The most convenient specimens to pick up are those which seem quite dry and fresh. The collected specimens should be carefully cleaned from all the insects, spider webs and foreign bodies attached to the specimens. The collection of specimens must be numbered and labelled as well as arranged inside the folder between a few layers of paper. Taking color pictures of each plant in its natural environment is enriched the quality of the herbarium.
Drying
Drying process is keeping the specimens squeezed between layers of paper until they are totally devoid of the original content of water.
Mounting
Once the specimens have been dried, they will be visibly mounted on a paper sheet. The best permanent mounting paper is good white or cream cartridge-type paper, in particular 100% rag or chemical wood pulp. The size for mounting paper can range from 42 × 26 cm to 45 × 30 cm. The most delicate mounted specimens could be covered with a protective sheet of translucent paper. Small paper envelopes can contain particular portions (e.g. seeds) or very small plants; when these envelopes are folded and glued to the sheet it should be possible to open them flat and close them without clips; besides they must securely hold their contents. The woody specimens can be strapped with linen or cotton thread, that will be knotted on the reverse side of the sheet.
Labelling
Each specimen must have a label on its own sheet. Label should include the taxonomic denomination (family, genus, species, … etc.) along with information on the date and place of collection, ecological notes about the locality and the name of the collector and of the individual who did the determination. To write your labels it is advisable to use permanent and water resistance ink otherwise a pencil can be used (medium lead).
Arrangement
Most herbaria utilize a standard system of organizing their specimens into herbarium cases. Specimen sheets are arranged in groups by the species to which they belong and placed into a large folder that is labeled on the bottom edge. The genus folders are then stored. The collection may be arranged alphabetical or classified first into small groups (region, status, …) then arranged alphabetically.
Staff
Prof. Dr. Abd Elmigid Ali Abd Elmigid +20 100 773 5424 sabdelmiged@nu.edu.eg
Prof. Dr. Reda Mohamed Hassan Rizk +20 109 249 9692 Dr.redarizk@gmail.com
Dr. Ehab Mawad Badr Mahdy +20 106 293 2724 ehab.mahdy@arc.sci.eg
Dr. Hamada maged Muhammed Hefny +20 109 974 0689 Hamadamaged10@gmali.com
The department is concerned with the genetic resources of horticultural crops presented in Egypt to preserve them from deterioration and extinction. This department includes:
Fruit crops
Vegetable crops
Medicinal and aromatic plants
Timber trees and ornamental plants
Strategy
Developing an action plan for integrated management of horticultural genetic resources targeted and cooperating with all the farms, gardens, orchards of local and regional to collect and exchange different samples of these plants.
Objectives
Survey, collection, propagation, evaluation and conservation of horticultural crops’ genetic resources, prioritizing the endemic and endangered ones.
Identification and description of the horticultural crops’ genetic resources.
Follow up and maintenance of the endangered and rare species in their natural habitat (in-situ).
Mapping, maintenance, and documentation of the endemic and near-endemic horticultural species, to preserve the national intellectual properties.
Evaluating the collected horticultural germplasms against different stresses and maximizing its nutritional, medicinal and environmental values.
Plan of Action
Carry out missions and scientific expeditions to explore the collection of plant genetic resources.
Determine the distribution and the whereabouts of plants in cooperation with the relevant authorities.
The collection of seeds and seedlings of the mind and the existing plants during trips combined with relevant.
Exchanging horticultural crop samples with other entities in Egypt and abroad. Studying the environmental conditions of different regions in the Arab Republic of Egypt to identify the optimum factors affecting plant genetic resources.
Determining the current status of the state of biodiversity in Egypt.
Training and capacity building and the establishment of specialized workshops and scientific conferences in cooperation with the competent authorities
Greenhouses
Greenhouse is a building designed with specific properties for the protection of tender or out-of-season plants against climatic variations in the open environment. On the other hand, it could be considered a perfect tool for preserving different plant genetic resources in Gene banks, especially for those species that couldn’t produce viable seeds under local conditions. So, it should be preserved as intact plants. In the Egyptian National Gene Bank (NGB), well designed and equipped greenhouse was allocated for conserving a huge number of timber trees, ornamental, medicinal and aromatic plants. Such species have been collected from all around Egypt. This germplasm collection of NGB greenhouse comprised about 83 plant families, 177 genera, and 226 species. Some of these species (wild or cultivated) are rare and endangered with high economical, medicinal and aesthetic values. The collected species including propagating materials (seeds, cuttings, bulbs,), seedlings and transplants are legally acquired with healthy condition to ensure high quality growth. After collecting and transferring to the NGB greenhouse, the collected materials are scientifically identified, documented, cultivated and supplied with different growth factors. Daily agricultural processes inside NGB are done including irrigation, controlling pests and diseases, fertilizing, etc., this is vital to ensure perfect growth of the collected plant materials. Propagation of these species is a very important process that is periodically done in the NGB greenhouse. These germplasms deposited inside NGB are available for students, researchers, gardeners, breeders, and other academic affiliations for scientific purposes as well as for exchange with new species. To ensure high performance of NGB greenhouse, growing factors (light, humidity and temperature) are completely controlled.
Botanical Garden
A small botanical garden is attached to the ENGB greenhouse, allocated for growing mature plants which become large in size and not suitable for the growth inside ENGB greenhouse. About 52 families, 134 genera and 155 species are located in the garden attached to this greenhouse.
Staff
Dr. Hossam Abd El-Maksoud Sayed Ahmed +20 112 158 5000 hosam722000yahoo.com
Dr. Tarek Mohamed Noor El-Deen Ahmed +20 100 115 1682 tarek.noor@arc.sci.eg
Plant tissue culture is a collection of techniques used to maintain or grow plant cells, tissues or organs under sterile conditions on a nutrient culture medium of known composition. Plant tissue culture is widely used to produce clones of a plant in a method known as Micropropagation. Tissue culture of plants refers to the growing and multiplication of plant cells tissues and organs on defined solid or liquid media for the production of high-quality uniform and disease-free plants. Moreover, tissue culture techniques are used for medium-term and long-term preservations including cryopreservation.
Objectives
Micropropagation of rare and endangered species.
Micropropagation of vegetative propagated species.
Micropropagation of recalcitrant seed-producing species.
in vitro medium-term preservation.
Long-term preservation (cryopreservation).
STAGES OF PLANT TISSUE CULTURE
Establishment stage
Multiplication stage
Rooting stage
Acclimatization stage
Staff
Prof. Dr. Neveen Abd El-Fattah Hassan +20 114 348 5555 niveen2020@hotmail.com
Dr. Ahmed Abd El-Wahab Mohamed El-Homosany +20 100 828 8309 a-homos2007@hotmail.com
Dr. Ahmed Mahmoud Haggag Abdelazim +20 114 071 4907 Ahmedhagag56@yahoo.com
Molecular genetics plays an important role in many aspects of conservation such as the characterization of plant genetic diversity for purposes of improved acquisition, maintenance and use. In general, studies of phylogeny and species evaluation have been undertaken and have produced a considerable amount of valuable information. More recently, the molecular techniques have been applied to problems of direct relevance in order to understand distribution and extent of variation within and between species and accessions.
Global Plan of Action
The Global Plan of Action provides a comprehensive scientific and technical framework for international and national action at the global level.
It was adopted by 150 countries in 1996 through the Leipzig Declaration and was endorsed by the World Food Summit Plan of Action and the CBD (FAO, 1996b). The Global Plan of Action presents 20 Priority Activity Areas (PAA).
The Global Plan of Action identifies a role for biotechnologies in
PAA 11:“Promoting sustainable agriculture through diversification of crop production and broader diversity in crops”.
One of its objectives is: “to promote the goal of higher levels of genetic diversity consistent with productivity increase and agronomic needs, including in crop production, plant breeding and biotechnological research and development settings”. Regardy capacity: “governments, and their national agricultural research systems, supported by the International Agricultural Research Centres, and other research and extension organizations should: make use of modern biotechnological techniques as feasible, to facilitate broadening of the genetic base of crops”.
Biotechnologies have a role in realizing other priority activities of the Global Plan of Action, in particular, but not exclusively :
PAA 5: “Sustaining existing ex situ collections”;
PAA 8: “Expanding ex situ conservation activities”;
PAA 9: “Expanding characterization, evaluation and number of core collections to facilitate use”;
and PAA 10: “Increasing genetic enhancement and base-broadening efforts”.
Roles of molecular technology in studies of plant genetic resources:
Genetic diversity studies
Germplasm management
Germplasm use
Genetic diversity studies
Genetic relatedness and diversity
Studying polymorphism in landraces and cultivars
Identification of cultivars and taxonomy
Phylogenetic studies
Comparative mapping
Germplasm management
Taxonomic characterization of germplasm
Maintenance of collections
Development conservation strategies
Germplasm use
Gene mapping and identification
Marker-assisted selection in plant breeding
Detecting somaclonal variation
Evaluating germplasm for useful genes
Objectives of MGL in NGBGR
Detect polymorphism and phylogenetic relationships between accessions.
Identify fingerprints of Egyptian germplasm.
Monitor genetic stability in conserved materials.
Determine specific molecular markers for agronomically desired characteristics.
The Seed Viability Testing Laboratory at National Genes Bank plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and longevity of seed accessions. Our laboratory specializes in evaluating seed viability and germination rates, utilizing advanced techniques in seed production technology, molecular biology, and Nano-biology. We are dedicated to enhancing seed quality and viability during storage and improving seed resistance to both biotic and abiotic environmental stresses.
Strategy
Our strategy focuses on blending scientific research with practical applications in seed viability testing and quality assurance during storage. By partnering with local and international organizations, we aim to deepen our understanding of seed biology and enhance sustainable conservation techniques. This ensures that our seed bank remains a valuable resource for future generations.
Objective
Maintain the genetic integrity of seed collections by accurately determining seed viability and implementing optimal storage conditions. This involves a combination of traditional seed testing techniques and advanced molecular biology methods by:
Enhancing Seed Conservation Protocols: Developing cutting-edge methods to extend the viability of stored seeds.
Assessing Seed Viability: Determining the viability of accession seeds at the start of storage.
Regeneration Timing: Predicting optimal times for seed regeneration by conducting regular viability tests.
Adhering to Standards: Implementing the rules and appropriate standards for seed testing set by the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA), the Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA), and the Genebank Standards for Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture.
The role of Lab/Dept
Seed Viability Assessment: Conducting regular assessments to determine the percentage of viable seeds and identify potential deterioration.
Storage Condition Optimization: Recommending optimal storage conditions, such as temperature and humidity, to prolong seed longevity.
Research and Development: Engaging in research to develop innovative techniques for seed preservation and to improve our understanding of seed biology.
Quality Control: Implementing strict quality control measures to ensure the accuracy and reliability of testing results.
International Collaboration: Collaborating with international organizations and researchers to share knowledge and best practices.
Our Research Focuses On
Seed Preservation Techniques: Developing modern methods for seed preservation that leverage molecular and nanotechnology.
Biochemical Analysis: Investigating biochemical changes in seeds during storage to enhance quality.
Natural Compounds: Understanding the role of natural compounds in seed crops and their applications.
Genetic Diversity: Exploring the genetic basis of metabolic diversity in seeds to develop conservation and adaptation strategies.
Laboratory scientific equipment
The laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to carry out its functions effectively:
Germination Chambers: Controlled environment chambers that simulate optimal conditions for seed germination.
Microscopes: Used for detailed examination of seed morphology and viability.
Analytical Balances: For precise measurements of seed weight and moisture content.
Oven: For drying samples and conducting moisture content tests.
Molecular Biology Equipment: Includes PCR machines and gel electrophoresis systems for advanced genetic analysis.
Other Specialized Equipment: Such as seed counters, seed cutters, and various laboratory glassware.
Seed Testing Services
Viability and Vigor Tests: Assess the potential for seeds to germinate and grow vigorously.
Germination Test: Measures the percentage of seeds that germinate under controlled conditions.
Rate of Germination: Evaluates how quickly seeds germinate.
Germination Duration Test: Assesses the time taken for seeds to germinate fully.
Tetrazolium (TZ) Test: A biochemical test to determine seed viability based on enzyme activity.
Seed Quality Test: General assessment of seed health, including purity and viability.
Accelerated Aging Test: Simulates aging conditions to predict seed longevity and performance.
Conductivity Test: Measures the electrical conductivity of seed leachate to assess seed damage.
Purity and Identification: Evaluates the composition of seed lots and identifies seed species.
Expected Storage Period of Seeds Test: Estimates how long seeds can be stored while maintaining quality.
Genetic Traits and Varietal Identification: Identifies genetic makeup and variety of seeds.
Thermogradient Germination Test: Tests germination across a temperature gradient to assess tolerance.
Other Specialty Tests: Additional tests tailored to specific seed types or requirements.
Imagine a time capsule filled with seeds that might not be needed for 100 years or more. That’s exactly what happens at the Seed Viability Lab in NGB, where plant genetic material is stored at temperatures as low as -20°C to ensure long-term preservation.
How genetic conservation is rewriting the story of lost biodiversity
Have you ever wondered if ancient Egyptian crops that once thrived along the Nile could be brought back? The answer lies in the work of gene banks like NGB, where thousands of seeds from traditional and endangered varieties are preserved.
Preserving the past to secure the future of agriculture
Egypt is home to a rich diversity of plant, animal, and microbial genetic resources that have sustained agriculture for centuries. But with modern challenges like climate change and habitat loss, how do we ensure their survival?
