Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of Salt Stress-Responsive ERF Gene Family Members in Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L)

Abstract

Salt stress is one of the major abiotic factors that adversely affects plant growth, development, and productivity, especially in economically important crops such as cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). Ethylene Response Factors (ERFs), belonging to the AP2/ERF superfamily, play a crucial role in regulating plant responses to various environmental stresses, including salinity. In the present study, a comprehensive genome-wide identification and characterization of ERF gene family members were performed in G. hirsutum to elucidate their potential roles under salt stress conditions. A total of 118 ERF genes were identified and classified into distinct subfamilies based on phylogenetic analysis. Gene structure, conserved motifs, and chromosomal distribution patterns were analyzed to understand their evolutionary relationships. Expression profiling using transcriptomic data and quantitative RT-PCR revealed that several GhERF genes were significantly upregulated in response to salt stress, particularly in root and leaf tissues. Promoter region analysis showed the presence of multiple stress-responsive cis-regulatory elements, suggesting their involvement in salinity tolerance mechanisms. The findings provide valuable insights into the functional diversification of the ERF gene family in cotton and identify potential candidate genes for future molecular breeding and genetic engineering strategies aimed at improving salt tolerance in G. hirsutum.