Transcriptome analysis combined with metabolome analysis reveals the significant functions of CesA genes in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) fiber length development

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) is widely distributed worldwide, and improving the quality of its fiber is one of the most important tasks in cotton breeding. Cotton fibers are primarily composed of cellulose, which is synthesized and regulated by cellulose synthase (CesAs). However, the molecular mechanism of CesA genes in cotton is unclear. In this study, the cotton transcriptome and metabolome were used to investigate the significant function of CesA genes in fiber development. Finally, 321 metabolites were obtained, 84 of which were associated with the corresponding genes. Interestingly, a target gene named Gh_A08G144300, one of the CesA gene family members, was closely correlated with the development of cotton fibers. Then, identification and functional analysis were conducted. The target CesA gene Gh_A08G144300 was selected and analysed to determine its specific function in cotton fiber development. High-level gene expression of Gh_A08G144300 was found at different fiber development stages by RNA-seq analysis, and the silencing of Gh_A08G144300 visibly inhibited the growth of cotton fibers, showing that it is critical for their growth. This study provides an important reference for research on the gene function of Gh_A08G144300 and the regulatory mechanism of fiber development in cotton. Overall design: There are 2 groups with 3 biological replicates in each group.