Rabeet Ahsan Khan1 , Muhammad Ghayas2 , Muhammad Nouman Khalid2 and Ifrah Amjad2
1Department of Plant Pathology, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan 2Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan
*Corresponding author: noumankhalidpbg@gmail.com
Cotton, a key crop in global textile production, is continuously threatened by a variety of diseases that significantly reduce yield and quality. The application of biotechnology, specifically transgenic strategies, has demonstrated substantial potential in mitigating these threats. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the role of biotechnology in managing cotton diseases, covering historical perspectives, current developments, challenges, and future prospects. Key cotton diseases are discussed alongside their impact on crop yield and quality, emphasizing the necessity for effective disease management. The evolution of transgenic strategies, from early efforts to modern techniques, is traced, highlighting important learnings and innovations. Current transgenic cotton varieties are assessed, considering field performance, public acceptance, and regulatory implications. Furthermore, methods for developing transgenic cotton, including genetic engineering techniques, genome editing tools, and RNA interference, are reviewed. Case studies showcase the successful implementation of transgenic strategies, shedding light on their practical benefits. Significant challenges associated with transgenic strategies, including technical hurdles, ethical, legal, and social issues, and environmental and biosafety concerns are analyzed. The review concludes with a forward look into future research directions, emphasizing the potential of novel resistance genes, integration with other disease management strategies, and the anticipated evolution of regulatory frameworks. While transgenic strategies offer significant promise in cotton disease management, the adoption of a balanced approach considering potential risks and benefits is recommended for their responsible application.