# Pan-genomic insights into LTP gene family evolution across diploid cotton species

## TL;DR

This study explores the evolution of lipid-transfer protein genes in nine diploid cotton species using pan-genomic data.

## Contribution

The study identifies 107 LTP genes and reveals their evolutionary patterns and expression dynamics in cotton.

## Key findings

- 107 LTP genes were identified, categorized into core, variable, and specific genes across nine diploid cotton species.
- Structural variations in LTP genes did not significantly impact gene expression despite altering gene structures and cis-acting elements.
- LTP genes showed distinct spatiotemporal expression patterns in cotton ovules and roots during development.

## Abstract

Lipid-transfer proteins (LTPs) are a class of small, alkaline proteins that bind and transport various lipid molecules, including fatty acids, phospholipids, glycolipids, and steroids, between phospholipid bilayers. They play crucial roles in signal transduction, stress tolerance, and plant growth and development.

In this study, based on pan-genomic data, we identified 107 LTP family members across nine diploid cotton species, comprising 45 core, 43 variable, and 19 specific genes. Synteny and selection pressure analyses clarified the evolutionary relationships among these genes, while structural variation analyses revealed that although structural variants altered gene structures, domains, and cis-acting elements, they did not significantly affect gene expression.

Expression profiling further demonstrated that LTP genes exhibited distinct spatiotemporal expression patterns in cotton ovules and roots at different developmental stages.

Overall, these findings highlight both conserved and divergent evolutionary patterns of the LTP family among diploid cotton species, providing new insights into their functional diversification, adaptive evolution, and potential involvement in cotton fiber development and stress responses.