#Genomics #MGI Tech #New Zealand #Canterbury #Lincoln University

Harnessing Genomics: The Future of New Zealand Viticulture

In a bold collaboration, MGI Tech Co., Ltd. has partnered with Lincoln University to address the sustainability challenges facing New Zealand's viticulture sector. The initiative, leveraging cutting-edge genomic technologies, aims to revolutionize the wine industry by developing vine and hop varieties that can withstand pests and diseases, ultimately reducing the reliance on harmful pesticides. This effort comes as New Zealand’s wine exports reach a substantial $2.1 billion, a figure that underscores the economic significance of the industry.

The Challenge of Viticulture in New Zealand

As New Zealand's sixth-largest export industry, viticulture plays a crucial role in the country's economy. However, the sector faces increasing pressure to enhance sustainability and mitigate its environmental impact. New Zealand's vineyards are particularly susceptible to fungal diseases, leading growers to apply around 3,400 tons of pesticides annually. Shockingly, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has classified 60% of local fungicides and 72% of plant growth regulators as potential carcinogens. As climate change intensifies, creating more unpredictable weather patterns, the risk of disease grows even higher, prompting urgent calls for safer, more sustainable practices.

A Genomic Approach to Solution

To combat these challenges, a team of New Zealand scientists has embarked on a genomic study aimed at minimizing chemical usage in vineyards. Utilizing advanced sequencing technology, researchers can now analyze thousands of vine samples swiftly to identify those with inherent disease resistance and resilience to environmental stress. Associate Professor Christopher Winefield from Lincoln University's Biosciences department has pioneered the integration of genomics into viticulture, focusing on traits such as fungal tolerance and soil health. With MGI's high-throughput sequencing platform, the project has expanded significantly.

This innovative approach not only paves the way for selecting more resilient grape varieties but also enables real-time vineyard monitoring, setting the stage for more targeted, sustainable, and cost-effective vineyard management.

The genomic practices allow scientists to map the genetic diversity in thousands of vines and pinpoint those that naturally resist diseases. Early findings indicate that targeted interventions based on genomic data could reduce chemical sprays by up to 80% in certain vineyards. According to Winefield, while achieving zero chemical sprays is unrealistic, even eliminating one end-of-season application can bring numerous benefits: reduced costs, lesser residues in wine, and decreased pressure on soil and environmental health.

MGI’s Groundbreaking Sequencing Technology

At the heart of this initiative is MGI's DNBSEQ-G400 genomic sequencer, a next-generation platform that offers unprecedented scale and speed at an economical cost. Traditionally, testing a few hundred vine samples per year was considered substantial. Now, the laboratory can handle over 50,000 samples annually—a hundredfold increase. Winefield remarks, "The introduction of MGI's sequencing tools has truly democratized genomics for smaller teams like mine. We can now affordably undertake large-scale studies that were previously beyond our reach."

This platform also supports real-time sequencing for pathogen detection, such as those responsible for powdery mildew and mealybug infestations. This development facilitates precision agriculture approaches, allowing growers to respond based on specific data rather than blanket treatments. Winefield explains that shifting from scheduled sprays to data-driven interventions results in fewer chemicals released into the environment and better resistance management.

Additionally, genomic data assists researchers in identifying vines that are more resistant to drought stress or nutrient restrictions, an increasingly critical factor in today's volatile climatic landscape.

Bicheng Yang, director of MGI Australia, highlights how this project exemplifies modern genomics facilitating sustainability. "This is a striking example of how advanced technologies can secure the future of agriculture. By helping researchers uncover the genetic factors behind disease resistance, we enable the agricultural sector to wean itself off harmful chemicals and embrace the natural resilience of plants."

A Vision for the Future

Beyond academic endeavors, the project has commercial aspirations. Winefield and his team are working toward establishing an independent venture that will provide affordable genomic testing for the entire agricultural sector in New Zealand. Catering to vineyards, horticulture, and dairies, this startup aims to equip producers with real-time data previously accessible only to high-end laboratories. "Our goal is to put world-class science into the hands of farmers and aim for one million samples processed annually, scaling to 10 million in five years," asserts Winefield.

This data-driven model will empower even small producers to detect early signs of disease, make proactive management decisions, and minimize unnecessary chemical inputs.

Broader Implications

The implications of this research extend far beyond New Zealand. As the global viticulture community faces similar challenges, the findings from Canterbury could serve as a blueprint for sustainable production worldwide. According to Winefield, New Zealand’s distinctive microclimates and robust scientific infrastructure position it as a prime testing ground for revolutionary practices.

"New Zealand may never produce enough volume to feed the world, but we can play a leading role through better science. By exporting our genomic knowledge, tools, and resistant plant stock, we can transform global agricultural productivity and environmental outcomes," he explains.

Conclusion

Looking ahead, Winefield envisions a future where genomic diagnostics are as common in agriculture as soil testing or weather monitoring. "It’s not just about grapes. For hops, kiwis, apples, or livestock, we can harness this data to reduce disease pressure, improve yields, and make smarter input decisions."

As climate change amplifies the urgency of these challenges, genomic solutions offer farmers the precision and flexibility needed to adaptively manage environmental shifts in real time.

About MGI

MGI Tech Co., Ltd. focuses on creating essential tools and technologies to drive innovation in life sciences. The company centers on research, development, manufacturing, and sales of instruments, reagents, and related products in life sciences and biotechnology. Established in 2016, MGI has become a leader in life sciences, serving clients across six continents and developing research, manufacturing, training, and service facilities worldwide. MGI is one of the few companies capable of independently developing and mass-producing clinical-grade gene sequencers, covering release capacities from gigabases (Gb) to terabases (Tb). Through its unmatched expertise, cutting-edge products, and commitment to global impact, MGI continues to shape the future of life sciences.