Huazhong Agricultural University (HZAU) and Hubei Hongshan Laboratory signed a technology transfer agreement with Wuhan Chuwei Biotechnology Co Ltd on Sept 12, officially commercializing "Shumeng" — China's first high-GABA functional cherry tomato.

Developed by Professor Ye Zhibiao's research team, the innovative variety represents a landmark achievement in functional vegetable breeding, effectively bridging the gap between high-tech agricultural science and practical consumer markets.

Bred over more than a decade using genome-wide association studies and molecular marker-assisted selection, "Shumeng" resolves the long-standing industry challenge of poor taste in functional produce. It contains three to five times more GABA — a natural functional amino acid known to improve sleep, relieve stress, and regulate blood pressure — than ordinary tomatoes, while maintaining a sweet taste and rich aroma.

Beyond its nutritional value, "Shumeng" offers strong disease resistance, high adaptability, a robust yield of 4,200 kilograms per mu (0.067 hectares), and a storage period exceeding 10 days at room temperature.

To ensure rapid market entry, Chuwei Biotechnology signed a fresh fruit agency agreement with Hubei Chuguang Youpin Supply Chain Co Ltd. The company plans to build comprehensive retail channels this year, achieve stable year-round supply within two years, and develop deep-processed functional goods.

University leaders noted that this partnership exemplifies how industry-academia collaboration transforms lab discoveries into valuable agricultural products, driving rural vitalization and healthy consumer choices.

Hubei Hongshan Laboratory inks a cooperation deal with Wuhan Chuwei Biotechnology Co Ltd. [Photo/news.hzau.edu.cn]