On the morning of April 28, 2026, NCU School of Life Sciences successfully convened the 7th and 8th sessions of its Elite Forum in Room A102A of the Basic Experiment Building on the Qianhu Campus. Held as a cornerstone event of the university's "Academic Activity Month" commemorating its 105th anniversary, the forum was hosted by Dr. Xiaowen Xu. The event featured distinguished lectures by Dr. Xing Liu and Libo He from the Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Faculty members and students attended in large numbers, fostering a vibrant and rigorous academic atmosphere.

        Dr. Xing Liu presented a report titled "Genetic Mechanisms Underlying the Coupling of Hypoxia Tolerance and Disease Resistance in Fish and the Development of Novel Germplasm with Combined Superior Traits." Focusing on the molecular basis of stress and disease resistance, he systematically outlined his team's recent advancements in elucidating the genetic mechanisms linking hypoxia tolerance with disease resistance. Beginning with the physiological challenges posed by hypoxic environments to fish homeostasis, Dr. Liu elaborated on the regulatory networks of key signaling pathways. He further demonstrated the screening and validation processes for functional genes aimed at achieving the genetic coupling of these traits. Building on this foundation, Dr. Liu highlighted phased achievements in developing new fish germplasm possessing both superior traits through molecular breeding technologies, offering novel insights and theoretical support for aquaculture breeding programs focused on stress and disease resistance.

         Dr. Libo He delivered a presentation titled "Molecular Mechanisms of GCRV Invasion, Replication, and Immune Evasion." Addressing the severe impact of Grass Carp Reovirus (GCRV) on the aquaculture industry—noting mortality rates exceeding 80% in juvenile grass carp—he emphasized the critical importance of elucidating its pathogenic mechanisms for disease-resistant breeding. Centering on the core scientific issue of virus-host interactions, Dr. He detailed his team's systematic findings regarding GCRV invasion, replication and assembly, and immune evasion strategies.

        Following the presentations, an engaging Q&A session ensued, with faculty and students raising insightful questions concerning research methodologies, technical specifics, and broader scientific implications. Dr. He provided comprehensive responses, particularly addressing inquiries on maintaining viral viability during long-term storage by sharing practical laboratory protocols. Similarly, Dr. Liu patiently addressed questions regarding efficient screening strategies for disease-resistant genes and the stability of new germplasm in practical aquaculture settings. He shared valuable insights on translating basic research into industrial applications, drawing upon his extensive scientific experience. The session concluded with sustained academic enthusiasm and productive scholarly exchange.