Polyploidization-driven formation of the <i>GhRALF30L</i> gene cluster confers basal thermotolerance in cotton male reproductive organs via <i>GhFERA1</i>/<i>GhCAPA1</i>.

ABSTRACT: High-temperature stress in plant stamens frequently causes male sterility, limiting crop yields. Gene duplication resulting from polyploidization offers insights into plant adaptation to environmental stress. Here, we reveal that extensive duplication of GhRALF30L, which encodes an intrinsically disordered small peptide, contributes to thermotolerance in cotton male reproductive organs. Polyploidization has driven the formation of 23 GhRALF30L genes in allotetraploid cotton, whereas only four or five homologs are identified in its two diploid ancestors. Expression and functional analyses confirm that GhRALF30L regulates thermotolerance in a dosage-dependent manner, with reduced dosage decreasing heat resistance. Under heat stress, GhRALF30L interacts with GhFERA1/GhCAP

SUBMITTER: Zhang R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12506971 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature