Research Progress on Traits Improvement of Cotton Plants Based on Comparative Genomics

Cotton is a globally significant crop, valued for its fiber and oil, and improving its traits remains a priority for sustainable agriculture. This study examines recent advancements in cotton trait improvement through comparative genomics, emphasizing the utility of genome sequencing, synteny and orthology analyses, and gene expression profiling across cotton species. We discuss how comparative genomics has facilitated the identification of key genes and regulatory elements linked to fiber quality, stress tolerance, and yield-related traits. This study also explores evolutionary insights such as polyploidy, subgenome divergence, and domestication signatures, and presents a case study comparing Gossypium hirsutum  and Gossypium barbadense , revealing critical genomic features that guide breeding programs. Despite notable progress, challenges such as incomplete genomic resources and integration with other omics persist. We conclude that comparative genomics offers powerful tools for trait dissection and cultivar development, and future efforts should focus on multi-omics integration and advanced bioinformatic platforms to fully harness its potential for sustainable cotton improvement.