News

   From 2 to 5 June 2026, the fourth session of the UPOV Technical Working Party on Testing Methods and Techniques (TWM/4) took place in Cambridge (United Kingdom).

   Ukraine was represented at the event by Larysa Prysyazhnyuk, Deputy Director for Scientific Work at the Ukrainian Institute for Plant Variety Examination. In her presentation, she highlighted the UIPVR’s experience and research projects regarding the implementation of molecular-genetic and biochemical methods in the examination of plant varieties for distinctness, uniformity and stability (DUS). Modern software modules and digital platforms used to automate data collection and processing, seed accounting and the maintenance of state registers in the field of plant breeding were also presented.

   During the session, participants discussed a number of topical issues regarding the improvement of DUS (distinctness, uniformity, stability) assessment methods, in particular:

- the use of specialised software and statistical methods for data analysis (COYU, COYD, DUST);
- determining the minimum distinction between varieties;
- digital management of variety collections;
- the application of modern phenotyping methods;
- the use of image analysis and artificial intelligence technologies for variety identification;
- the implementation of innovative solutions for the development of climate-resilient agriculture;
- the use of molecular markers in DUS testing;

- management of genetic and information databases;
- the development of international cooperation between UPOV, the OECD, ISTA and the CPVO;
- the application of DNA technologies for the evaluation of essentially derived varieties (EDV) and the protection of breeders’ rights;
- the further development of methodological support for plant variety examination.
   The participation of representatives from the UIPVE in the work of these international forums confirms the Institute’s active integration into the global professional community, contributes to the implementation of modern approaches to plant variety examination and strengthens international cooperation in the field of plant variety rights protection.