The Catalase Gene Family in Cotton: Genome-Wide Characterization and Bioinformatics Analysis

Area of Science:

• Plant Molecular Biology
• Genomics
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Catalases (CATs) are key ROS-metabolizing enzymes vital for plant physiology.
• Systematic genomic studies on cotton CAT genes are lacking.
• Understanding CAT gene family functions is crucial for cotton development and stress tolerance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To perform a genome-scale identification and characterization of the catalase (CAT) gene family in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L. and Gossypium barbadense L.).
• To investigate the evolutionary relationships, expression patterns, and potential regulatory mechanisms of cotton CAT genes.
• To elucidate the role of the CAT gene family in cotton growth, development, and response to Verticillium dahliae infection.

Main Methods:

• Genome-wide identification of CAT genes in Gossypium species.
• Phylogenetic and synteny analyses to understand gene family evolution.
• Expression pattern analysis under normal conditions and pathogen infection.
• Prediction of regulatory mechanisms including transcription factors, alternative splicing, and miRNAs.

Main Results:

• Identified 7 CAT genes in Gossypium hirsutum and 7 in Gossypium barbadense.
• Phylogenetic analysis divided CAT genes into two groups, with expansion attributed to whole-genome duplication/polyploidy events.
• CAT genes exhibit temporal and spatial specificity and are induced by Verticillium dahliae infection.
• Putative regulatory mechanisms involving TFs, AS, and miRNAs were predicted.

Conclusions:

• This is the first genome-scale analysis of the cotton CAT gene family.
• The CAT gene family plays significant roles in cotton development and stress tolerance by modulating ROS metabolism.
• Findings provide a foundation for further research into CAT gene functions and potential applications in crop improvement.