Uzbek Scientist Pioneers Genetic Breakthroughs in Cotton and Wheat

Uzbekistan’s agricultural sector has been thrust into the global spotlight thanks to the pioneering work of Ibrokhim Abdurakhmonov, the country’s Minister of Agriculture and a renowned geneticist. Abdurakhmonov’s innovations in plant genetics, particularly in cotton and wheat, are credited with transforming not only Uzbekistan’s farming landscape but also influencing food security strategies worldwide.

Breakthroughs in Genetic Engineering

Abdurakhmonov’s most notable achievement is the development of the world’s first gene-knockout cotton. Unlike traditional crossbreeding, which can take years and often yields unpredictable results, gene-knockout technology allows scientists to precisely deactivate specific genes. The result is cotton with longer fibers and significantly higher yields, cultivated without introducing foreign DNA. The impact has been immediate: the new ‘Porloq’ cotton varieties now cover over 100,000 hectares in Uzbekistan, providing a major boost to the country’s textile industry and export potential.

The scientist’s approach extends to wheat, a staple threatened by increasing soil salinity due to climate change and irrigation practices. By leveraging advanced genomics, Abdurakhmonov’s team has developed wheat varieties that can thrive in saline soils, potentially safeguarding food supplies for millions in arid regions.

Global Recognition and Broader Impact

Abdurakhmonov’s Center of Genomics and Bioinformatics in Tashkent has become a hub for agricultural innovation. Beyond cotton and wheat, the center has engineered cottonseed oil safe for human consumption—a significant achievement given the traditional toxicity of gossypol in cottonseed. The center also played a crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic by sequencing viral genomes to help track mutations and inform public health responses.

International organizations have taken notice. In 2023, UNESCO recognized Abdurakhmonov for his contributions to science and global food security. He told Euronews, “Whether it’s drought or disease, we can now act fast to find solutions.” However, some observers note that while government and international agencies praise these advances, the long-term ecological and socioeconomic impacts of widespread genetic modification remain to be fully understood.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Despite the accolades, questions linger about the regulation and monitoring of genetically modified crops in Uzbekistan and beyond. Critics caution that rapid deployment of gene-edited organisms could have unintended consequences for biodiversity and smallholder farmers. Abdurakhmonov has responded by emphasizing transparency and collaboration with international research bodies.

As global food systems face mounting stress from climate change, the Uzbek scientist’s breakthroughs offer a potential blueprint for resilient agriculture. Whether this model can be replicated elsewhere—and at what cost—remains a topic for ongoing investigation.