CBF1 is an underestimated plant regulatory transcription factor.

Abstract

CBF1 transcription factors have been extensively utilized for their remarkable contribution to stress resistance that helps plants to cope with complex abiotic stresses. However, their regulation of plant type and other traits is often neglected. We overexpressed the Ammopiptanthus mongolicus CBF1 gene in cotton. Three transgenic lines, L28, L30, and L41, with high expression levels were successfully obtained. Subsequently, we comprehensively examined multiple cotton phenotypes, including plant height, overall morphology, leaf shape, leaf colour, and leaf thickness. Additionally, we analysed hormone levels, yield, and fibre quality. Through comparative analysis, we found that the overexpressed plants had strong root structure, dwarf and compact architecture, more serrated leaf edges, thick leaf tissues, and darker leaf colour compared to wild cotton. Moreover, there was a significant decrease in IAA and GA3. The overexpressing plants displayed many trait alterations, all of which were regulated by AmCBF1. The study of aboveground plant morphology in crops is essential for understanding crop growth and yield. Significantly, although CBF1 plays a prominent role in mediating stress resistance, its importance in influencing plant architecture and other traits has been somewhat overlooked. Consequently, exploring the diverse roles of CBF1 in plant development will be crucial in future research.