Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution, 2025 (SCI-Expanded)
UDP-glucose: flavonoid 3-O-glucosyl transferase (UFGT) plays a pivotal role in the anthocyanin biosynthetic pathway by catalyzing the glucosylation of anthocyanidins, forming stable intermediates essential for pigmentation. In this study, eleven UFGT genes in colored cotton were identified and grouped into eight evolutionary clades. Protein characterization revealed lengths between 451 and 508 amino acids. Structural analysis demonstrated conserved glycosyltransferase superfamily domains, diverse secondary structures, and a preserved tertiary architecture. Subcellular localization research showed cytoplasmic placement for most UFGT proteins, except one because these proteins in the cytoplasm are often involved in metabolic processes. Chromosomal mapping highlighted a symmetric gene distribution across tetraploid cotton's A and D sub-genomes, with evidence of tandem and segmental duplications (Ka/Ks ratio < 1), suggesting purifying selection. Gene structure and motif analyses revealed conserved intron–exon arrangements and motif patterns, indicating functional similarity. Expression profiling confirmed the UFGT genes' role in tissue-specific coloration and developmental processes. Moderate upregulation under abiotic stress conditions suggests their involvement in stress responses. Promoter analysis identified cis-elements related to plant hormones and stress regulation, supporting their multifaceted functionality. This comprehensive analysis underscores the UFGT gene family's role in pigmentation, development, and stress adaptation, offering valuable targets for breeding colored cotton cultivars with improved traits. These findings provide a foundation for further functional genomics research and agricultural applications.