Chinese researchers clone first Yanbian cattle

(ECNS) -- Two Yanbian cattle cloned from somatic cells were born in Bozhou, central China's Anhui Province, a significant breakthrough in yellow cattle conservation and breeding, according to scientists from Jilin Agricultural University on Monday.

Researchers collected high-quality tissue and used somatic cell nuclear transfer technology to create cloned embryos. Through refined pregnancy monitoring, they achieved full-cycle health management of cloned cattle for the first time. 

Yanbian cattle are part of China's five major local premium breeds, renowned for their flavorful taste and unique texture. 

These cattle have traditionally enjoyed a high status and are listed in the national livestock and poultry genetic resource protection directory. 

However, they suffer from low reproductive efficiency and scarce genetic resources. Traditional live conservation methods face challenges including inbreeding depression and geographical limitations.

The achievement will boost the establishment of an ex-situ population in Anhui, providing a new method to the conservation of Yanbian cattle, said Lu Wenfa, vice president, Jilin Agricultural University.

(By Li Yan)