棉纤维品质改良的分子生物学基础

Molecular biology for quality improvement of cotton fiber

本文简要地评述了棉纤维特异性表达基因和棉花纤维素合成酶基因的克隆及其表达方面的研究进展。与棉纤维伸长有关的基因主要有Gh CAP和pGhEX1 ,与棉纤维次生壁加厚有关的基因主要有H6、Fb -E6和FS18A等 ,但这些基因的精确功能还有待进一步研究。棉花celA是从第一个高等植物中克隆出的编码纤维素合成酶催化亚基的基因。利用转基因技术将抗虫、抗除草剂基因和这些与纤维发育有关的基因导入棉花 ,不但可改良棉花的产量和纤维品质 ,降低生产成本 ,而且可减轻对环境的不利影响 。

Recent progresses on cloning of genes specifically expressed in cotton fiber and on isolation of genes involved in cellulose synthesis in cotton were reviewed. GhCAP and pGhEX1 may play a role in cell elongation in cotton fibers. H6, Fb E6 and FS18A may function in the development and architecture of the secondary walls. celA identified from cotton was the first gene encoding cellulose synthesis catalytic subunit in higher plants. Further studies of the precise functions for these genes in cotton fiber development and cellulose synthesis are necessary. Genetic engineering to confer useful agronomic (such as pest and herbicide resistance genes) and fiber traits is likely to improve yield and quality, lower the cost of production, and promote enviromentally friendly farm practices. These developments will lead to improved agronomical and fiber traits in cotton and enable the industry to expand its market share.