Integrating physiological and molecular insights in cotton under cold stress conditions

Cotton is a vital resource for the textile industry, but cold stress causes serious problems for it during germination and the early phases of seedling development. Both physiological and molecular strategies cotton employ to withstand cold stress are examined in this article. The antioxidant-mediated defense system, which uses both antioxidants that are enzymatic and those that are not to preserve cellular homeostasis, is one of the important areas. The study delves into the interplay between antioxidant defense systems and membrane integrity, as well as the function of cold-responsive molecules in stressful adaption. The review emphasizes the role that suitable solute, including sugars, and osmoprotectants play in improving cold tolerance. We discuss cold-induced hormonal regulation, focusing on ethylene, and the signaling functions of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in triggering protective responses. Additionally, the synthesis of secondary metabolites like terpenoids and flavonoids as defense mechanisms under cold stress is highlighted. At the molecular level, we explore changes in gene expression and the role of microRNAs in growth regulation, alongside abscisic acid (ABA) in cold stress responses. Adaptation strategies, such as priming and acclimation, are reviewed, emphasizing gene expression changes and metabolic pathways during acclimation. In conclusion, we address methods to improve cotton's resistance to cold, such as biotechnological treatments, selection using markers for tolerance to cold genes, and breeding techniques. Additionally taken into consideration is the use of transcriptomic and proteomics analysis to pinpoint targets for enhancing cold tolerance. Through improved breeding and biotechnology techniques, cotton’s resistance to cold stress may be increased, as this thorough investigation reveals.