Genetics of Cotton Fiber Color: Unveiling the Mechanisms and Exploring Gene-Based Approaches for Color Expression

Cotton is a vital natural fiber, and its color significantly impacts its commercial value and marketability. Traditional cotton cultivation focuses on white fibers, but naturally colored cotton (NCC) is gaining attention due to its potential for sustainable and environmentally friendly textile production. This review explores the genetics and molecular mechanisms underlying cotton fiber color, focusing primarily on anthocyanins and gossypol pigments. We discuss the role of key genes involved in pigment biosynthesis and regulatory pathways. Additionally, we analyze the potential of gene-based color expression approaches, including traditional breeding and genetic engineering. We highlight the advantages and limitations of each approach and discuss future research directions for developing NCC varieties with improved fiber quality, yield, and color diversity.