Researchers Uncover Molecular Cascade to Boost Cotton Tolerance to Cadmium

Scientists from China identified a molecular cascade that is responsible for cadmium (Cd²⁺) tolerance in cotton. Their research may help produce Cd²⁺-tolerant cotton varieties in the future.

Heavy metal pollution causes adverse effects on agricultural productivity and human health. One way to address this issue is through phytoremediation, which reduces heavy metals in contaminated soil. However, the mechanisms that affect this method are still unclear, so alternative techniques must be discovered.

Researchers from various universities in China discovered a GhRCD1–GhbHLH12–GhMYB44–GhHMA1 regulatory module that controls cadmium (Cd²⁺) tolerance in cotton. Their results also showed that genetic knockout of GhRCD1 using CRISPR-Cas9 decreased cadmium tolerance, and GhRCD1 overexpression improved cadmium tolerance in cotton seedlings.

For more information, read the article in Plant Biotechnology Journal.