Characterization and Functional Analysis of the Gene Family in Cotton: Insights into Fiber Development.

Fibrillins (FBNs) are indispensable for plant growth and development, orchestrating multiple physiological processes. However, the precise functional role of in cotton fiber development remains uncharacterized. This study reports a genome-wide characterization of the gene family in cotton. A total of 28 genes were identified in upland cotton, with systematic analyses of their phylogenetic relationships, protein motifs, gene structures, and hormone-responsive -regulatory elements. Expression profiling of during fiber development revealed stage-specific activity across the developmental continuum. Transcriptomic analyses following hormone treatments demonstrated upregulation of family members, implicating their involvement in hormone-mediated regulatory networks governing fiber cell development. Collectively, this work presents a detailed molecular characterization of cotton s and establishes a theoretical foundation for exploring their potential applications in cotton breeding programs aimed at improving fiber quality.