Study Reveals Role of Cotton Gene in Growth and Resilience

Researchers from the University of the Punjab, Pakistan, reported that a gene in cotton plants, GhSPL13, acts as a master regulator of plant growth and development. Their findings are published in Plant Science.

Previous studies have revealed the role of SPL genes in other plants. However, its specific function in cotton plants remains a mystery. Thus, the researchers used CRISPR gene editing to tweak the gene in cotton plants and reveal its function.

The results showed that gene-edited plants became much bushier with more branches, and they developed longer, heavier root systems. Additionally, the cotton plants produced more growth hormones and beneficial compounds, such as antioxidants.

These changes also increased the resilience of cotton plants to dry spells. When facing drought conditions, the gene-edited plants were much better at conserving water, capturing carbon dioxide, and maintaining high chlorophyll levels to photosynthesize efficiently.

The findings of the study provide valuable insights into breeding tougher, higher-yielding cotton crops that can withstand harsh environments.

Read more results in Plant Science.