Epigenetic pathways for stress tolerance mechanisms and improved yield in cotton; an adaptation mechanism under extreme conditions

Cotton (Gossypium spp.) is a globally important crop providing natural fibre and livelihoods, its productivity is increasingly threatened by climate change–induced stresses such as heat, drought, and soil salinity. Epigenetic regulation has emerged as a promising strategy to enhance stress resilience and yield stability in cotton. Recent advances reveal that epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and small non-coding RNAs, modulate the expression of stress-responsive genes without changing the DNA sequence. DNA methylation-mediated gene silencing and chromatin remodelling are linked to key adaptive traits e.g., antioxidant defense, stomatal regulation, and hormonal signalling. Epigenetic memory across generations has been observed in cotton, suggesting heritable stress tolerance mechanisms. These processes directly contribute to fiber quality, boll retention, and biomass allocation under adverse conditions, supporting sustainable yield. Despite these advances, critical gaps remain in understanding the stability, specificity, and inheritance of epigenetic marks, and the integration of epigenomic tools into cotton breeding is still at an early stage. Future research should focus on identifying robust epigenetic biomarkers, generating high-resolution cotton epigenome maps, and developing precision epigenome editing strategies. Such efforts are essential for translating epigenetic insights into climate-resilient cotton cultivars and ensuring sustainable production in the face of escalating environmental challenges.