A groundbreaking study published in New Phytologist sheds light on the complex gene networks that control cotton fiber growth, offering new pathways to improve fiber quality and crop yields.
Researchers analyzed vast genetic data to map how duplicated gene regulatory networks function in allopolyploid cotton, which carries two distinct genomes known as A and D. Their findings reveal that while genes from the D genome tend to be more actively expressed, the regulatory genes responsible for controlling fiber development mainly come from the A genome. This unexpected division of labor highlights how the two genomes cooperate and specialize after polyploid formation.
The study identified several previously unknown transcription factors that play crucial roles in fiber growth and cellulose production. Notably, two related transcription factors were found to influence fiber length, a key trait for textile quality.
Using advanced network analysis, the team uncovered “master regulators” that orchestrate the gene interactions necessary for fiber development.
The research also showed that regulatory roles evolve faster in these duplicated genes than the genes they control, revealing new dynamics of genetic regulation in polyploid plants.
These insights could have significant implications for cotton breeding, allowing scientists to target specific genes to enhance fiber traits, improve resilience, and increase productivity.
This work marks a major advance in understanding cotton’s genetic complexity and offers promising tools to support the global textile industry’s demand for high-quality cotton fibers.
