1.2 million euros to the Center for Genome Sequencing and Bioinformatics

The goal is to create a large database of information and data about our genetics on a global level. This will be a huge step for the further development, above all of biomedicine, of new medicines and the development of new diagnostics, explained the Minister of Science, Technological Development and Innovation. – I am glad that SERBIA ZIJIN COPPER DOO BOR recognized the work of our institute and decided to invest in the development of new generation bioinformatics and technology. We will use the funds to improve our scientific research work, said Ms. Ivana Strahinić, PhD.

XIAMEN- The Head of the Institute for Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering in Belgrade, Ms. Ivana Strahinić, PhD, and the General Manager of SERBIA ZIJIN COPPER DOO BOR, Mr. Qiu Guozhu, in the presence of the Minister of Science, Technological Development and Innovation, Ms. Jelena Begović, PhD, and the President of the Zijin Mining Group, Mr. Jinghe Chen, signed (on September 8) a Donation Agreement worth 1.2 million euros in the Serbian pavilion at the International Investment and Trade Fair CIFIT 2023 in Xiamen. As the Institute Head explained, the funds are intended for the Center for Genome Sequencing and Bioinformatics.

What is “genome reading” used for?

Human genome sequencing is increasingly being used in various healthcare systems around the world. Clinical screening programs aim to examine genes or variants to identify increased risk and thus prevent future disease. For example, an increased risk of diseases such as cancer, heart disease or infertility. In addition, it can help to examine the unwanted effect of drugs, without first testing them on humans, but on cells that can react mutagenically to new drugs.

– IMGGI plans to launch a project to sequence a thousand Balkan genomes, and the Chinese BGI group and its subsidiaries will play a major role in its implementation. The goal is to create a large database of information and data regarding our genetics on a global level. It will be a huge step for further development, above all of biomedicine, of new medicines and the development of new diagnostics. That is why I am glad that another large Chinese company – Zijin recognized the work of our Institute and decided to invest in the improvement of new technologies, among which are primarily bioinformatics and new generation technologies. We will use the funds to improve our scientific research work – said Ms. Ivana Strahinić, PhD.

She reminded that a year and a half ago, the Center for Genome Sequencing and Bioinformatics, the only one in the region, was opened at the Institute for Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, with the aim to help researchers improve genome sequencing technologies by applying new technologies. – The BGI group was a very important partner for us during the opening of the center as well – reminded the Minister, who, at that time was, the Head of the IMGGI and the first Manager of the “Vatreno Oko” laboratory in Belgrade Clinical Center. Namely, cooperation between Serbia and the Chinese BGI Group, formerly the Beijing Institute for Genetic Research, began during the pandemic. In April 2020, China donated two “Vatreno Oko” laboratories to Serbia, which are the product of the BGI and were used for coronavirus testing.

“I am pleased to have attended the ceremony of signing the Donation Agreement intended for research in the fields of economy, technology, science, and innovation in various fields. The matter of the development of the said areas is the matter of the development of Serbia and the entire humanity.” said Deputy Prime Minister of Serbia and Minister of Culture Ms. Maja Gojković.