Genetic Research May Guide Production of Drought Resilient Cotton

Scientists from Cornell University and partners have identified the drought-coping mechanisms of cotton plants. Their findings may be used to produce more resilient cotton varieties.

Climate change causes frequent and severe droughts that can affect cotton-growing regions. Due to the challenges brought about by climate change, improved varieties of cotton must be developed to cope with these issues.

Researchers subjected cotton plants to drought conditions and examined their genes and physical traits. The results showed that the GhHSFA6B-D and GhDREB2A-A genes help the plants handle water stress while preserving fiber development. These regulatory genes coordinate the activity of other genes that are responsible for drought response and fiber production.

The team also identified that the GhIPS1-A gene creates an enzyme that is necessary for the production of compounds that protect crops from drought stress. A genetic variation near the GhIPS1-A gene was also associated with the maintenance of cotton yield during drought. Their research offers valuable insights that may be used as a guide for breeding efforts.

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