Progress of collection, conservation and innovative utilization of kiwifruit resources in the National Kiwifruit Germplasm Repository (Wuhan)

China, recognized as the primary center of origin for Actinidia, harbors exceptionally rich wild germplasm resources, with 52 of the 54 globally identified species either endemic to or primarily distributed within its territory. Since its incorporation into the national“Crop Germplasm Resources Conservation and Utilization Project”in 2012, the National Kiwifruit Germplasm Repository (Wuhan) has made significant advances in the systematic collection, conservation, evaluation, and innovative utilization of kiwifruit genetic resources. By January 2025, the repository had preserved 1570 accessions representing 61 taxonomic units, including the major cultivated species A. chinensis, A. deliciosa, A. eriantha, and A. arguta, as well as numerous wild relatives and artificially developed interspecific hybrids. This comprehensive collection has established the repository as the largest and most fully developed conservation center for kiwifruit germplasm in China. To ensure precise identification and evaluation, the repository has implemented multi- dimensional assessment systems encompassing disease resistance, nutritional composition, abiotic stress tolerance, flavor quality, and ornamental value. In response to bacterial canker, a major disease threatening global kiwifruit production, 32 resistant wild accessions and 24 resistant cultivars were identified. For nutritional traits, seven species, including A. eriantha and A. latifolia, were recognized for their exceptionally high vitamin C content, with A. eriantha reaching concentrations of 500-1379 mg per 100 g fresh mass. Physiological responses to abiotic stresses such as heat, drought, and waterlogging were also evaluated, leading to the identification of heat-tolerant A. eriantha accessions and drought-resistant cultivars such as Xuxiang and Jinmei. These discoveries supported the development of the Zhongke kiwifruit rootstock series, which demonstrates enhanced stress tolerance. Meanwhile, orchard-based evaluations combined with sensory assessments enabled the identification of superior flavor cultivars, including Jinmei and Donghong, as well as distinctive dual-purpose varieties with both ornamental and fresh fruit value, such as Jiangshanjiao, Chaohong, and Mantianhong. At the research level, the repository has established an integrated evaluation framework combining morphological, cytological, biochemical, and molecular approaches, and has completed whole- genome sequencing of multiple Actinidia species. These efforts revealed the reticulate evolutionary history and the“double radiation”divergence pattern of the genus. Omics-based approaches, including transcriptomics and metabolomics, have further elucidated the molecular regulatory networks underlying key traits such as vitamin C biosynthesis, anthocyanin accumulation, disease resistance, and fruit softening. Several important functional genes, including GGP3, AcMYB110, and AcSWEET9b, have been identified and functionally characterized. In addition, precise evaluations of sugar-acid balance, volatile aroma compounds, and fruit freezing point have been systematically conducted, providing theoretical foundations for quality improvement. In terms of breeding innovation, the repository has developed 58 new cultivars using diverse strategies such as wild germplasm selection and interspecific hybridization. These include the commercially important fresh fruit cultivars Donghong, Jinyan, and Jintao; the Moshanxiong pollinizer series; and the Zhongke rootstock series with enhanced stress resistance. Among them, Donghong, Jinyan, and Jintao have achieved large-scale commercialization both domestically and internationally, with planting areas exceeding 20 000 ha, 16 700 ha, and 10 000 ha, respectively. Their widespread adoption has driven cultivar renewal and industrial upgrading in China’s kiwifruit sector. The repository has also played a pivotal role in resource sharing and utilization. Since 2012, more than 600 germplasm samples have been distributed to over 120 research and production institutions, supporting numerous major initiatives, including the National Key R&D Program and the National Natural Science Foundation of China. It has further provided essential resource support for national agricultural innovation platforms, such as the Modern Agricultural Industry Technology System and the Plant Variety Testing Stations. Through variety licensing and industrial promotion, the repository has contributed both to foreign exchange earnings and to improving rural livelihoods, thereby delivering substantial socio-economic benefits under the framework of targeted poverty alleviation and rural revitalization. Looking ahead, the National Kiwifruit Germplasm Repository (Wuhan) is committed to strengthening its role in four strategic areas. First, it will continue to expand the collection and conservation of rare and endangered germplasm, emphasizing a combined strategy of in situ and ex situ conservation. Second, it will deepen precision evaluation and genomic research to identify key genes underlying superior traits and to advance molecular marker-assisted breeding. Third, preservation technologies and sharing mechanisms will be further optimized through the integration of field conservation, in vitro techniques, and cryopreservation, establishing a multi- tiered system that enhances both efficient resource use and research feedback. Fourth, talent cultivation and team building will be reinforced to elevate research capacity and international influence, thereby providing a robust foundation for the efficient utilization of kiwifruit germplasm and the sustainable development of the kiwifruit industry. In summary, the National Kiwifruit Germplasm Repository (Wuhan) has made substantial progress over the past decade in germplasm conservation, evaluation, and innovative utilization. Its achievements provide valuable experiences and serve as an important reference for advancing kiwifruit germplasm research and guiding the sustainable development of China’s kiwifruit industry