Cultural gene theory offers an analytical framework for shifting the protection of historic districts from spatial control to the transmission of cultural meaning. Taking Enning Road, Xinhepu, Shamian and Beijing Road in Guangzhou as case districts, this study combines field investigation, archival research, space syntax and gene coding to build a three-dimensional framework of material, behavioral and conceptual genes. A total of 127 cultural gene elements are identified and assessed. The results show that Guangzhou's historic districts are characterized by multi-source accumulation, a commercial-capital foundation and openness. Behavioral and conceptual genes face stronger pressure from the loss of inheritors, the weakening of everyday scenes and functional replacement. Based on authenticity, integrity, vitality and adaptability assessment, the paper proposes a staged strategy of digital gene bank construction, community-based living inheritance and innovative transformation. The study provides a reference for moving from object-based conservation toward fine-grained governance oriented by cultural gene networks.

He Yifei, Zhang Yu, Lin Peisong. Research on Inheritance and Development Strategies of Local Cultural Genes: A Case Study of Historical and Cultural Districts in Guangzhou. Academic Journal of Humanities & Social Sciences (2026), Vol. 9, Issue 6: 66-72. https://doi.org/10.25236/AJHSS.2026.090609.

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