Differential LTR-retrotransposon dynamics across polyploidization, speciation, domestication, and improvement of cotton (Gossypium).

ABSTRACT:

Background

Transposable elements are major components of plant genomes and major drivers of plant genome evolution. The cotton genus (Gossypium) is an excellent evolutionary model for polyploidization, speciation, domestication, and crop improvement. Here, we implement genome and pangenome analyses to study in detail the dynamics of LTR-retrotransposons during the cotton evolution.

Results

We show that some LTR-retrotransposon lineages amplified in tetraploid cotton compared to their diploid progenitors, whereas others stayed stable or amplified but were removed through solo-LTR formation. Using species-level pangenomes we show that only a few lineages (CRM, Tekay, Ivana, and Tork) remained active after polyploidization and are still transposing. Tekay and CRM elements have

SUBMITTER: Campos-Dominguez L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12557855 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature