Cold tolerance in rice: Insights into genetic basis, molecular mechanisms, and adaptive strategies

Low temperature is a critical abiotic stress constraining rice production by impairing seed germination, seedling establishment, and reproductive development. Rice has developed a multifaceted regulatory system for cold tolerance through physiological adaptation and coordinated gene expression networks. Recent advances in quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping and functional gene discovery have substantially elucidated the genetic basis of this complex trait. Molecular breeding strategies, including marker-assisted selection (MAS) and genome editing, hold significant promise for the development of novel cold-tolerant rice varieties. This review comprehensively summarizes the current knowledge on physiological responses, molecular mechanisms, and cold adaptation strategies in rice under low-temperature conditions. Specifically, we synthesize the breeding potential of cold-tolerant genes and discuss their application strategies in biological breeding, providing a strategic framework to advance the genetic improvement of cold tolerance in rice.