Cover image of the related research published in Cell. [Photo/news.hzau.edu.cn]

On Dec 19, Science magazine unveiled its prestigious list of the "2025 Top 10 Scientific Breakthroughs", featuring a major discovery by Professor Li Yibo's team from Huazhong Agricultural University (HZAU). The team's research on a heat-resistant rice gene offers a critical way to safeguard global food security amidst a warming climate.

As global warming intensifies, frequent extreme heat events pose a severe threat to crop yields and quality. For rice, a staple food for billions, high temperatures not only reduce harvests but also increase grain chalkiness — a defect that significantly degrades the texture, appearance, and market value of the crop.

Spanning over a decade of rigorous study, Li's team analyzed over 10,000 germplasm resources from countries including China, the Philippines, Pakistan, and India. They successfully identified eight rare varieties that maintained low chalkiness despite 10 years of exposure to natural heat.

Through advanced genetic analysis, the researchers pinpointed QT12, a pivotal gene responsible for heat resistance. By decoding its molecular mechanism, the team has provided a sophisticated genetic strategy for breeding high-yield, high-quality rice capable of thriving in rising temperatures.

Initially published in the journal Cell in April, the findings have garnered widespread acclaim from international academicians and experts. The breakthrough was further highlighted in a dedicated feature by the News column of Science, cementing its status as a transformative contribution to agricultural science and climate adaptation.