Re enhances anthocyanin and proanthocyanidin accumulation to produce red foliated cotton and brown fiber

Abstract Red foliated cotton is a typical dominant mutation trait in upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum). Although mutants have been described, few responsible genes have been identified and characterized. In this study, we performed map-based cloning of the red foliated mutant gene (Re) derived from the cross between G. hirsutum cv. Emian22 and G. barbadense acc. 3–79. Through expression profiling, metabolic pathway analysis, and sequencing of candidate genes, Re was identified as an MYB113 transcription factor. A repeat sequence variation in the promoter region increased the activity of the promoter, which enhanced the expression of Re. Re expression driven by the 35S promoter produced a red foliated phenotype, as expected. When the gene was driven by a fiber elongation-specific promoter, promoter of α-expansin 2 (PGbEXPA2), Re was specifically expressed in 5- to 10-day post-anthesis fibers rather than in other tissues, resulting in brown mature fibers. Re responded to light through phytochrome-interacting factor 4 and formed a dimer with transparent testa 8, which increased its expression as well as that of anthocyanin synthase and UDP-glucose:flavonoid 3-o-glucosyl transferase, and thus activated the entire anthocyanin metabolism pathway. Our research has identified the red foliated mutant gene in cotton, which paves the way for detailed studies of anthocyanin and proanthocyanidin metabolism and pigment accumulation in cotton and provides an alternative strategy for producing brown fiber.