Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the DnaJ genes in Gossypium hirsutum

DnaJ proteins are considered critical players in enhancing plant resilience to environmental stresses, yet their identification and characterization in cotton remains largely unexplored. In this study, we systematically identified DnaJ genes in Gossypium species and conducted comprehensive phylogenetic and structural analyses. Our results suggest that polyploidy events significantly contributed to the expansion of DnaJ genes in Gossypium species. Furthermore, analysis of cis-elements revealed that GhDnaJs are involved in abiotic stress responses, indicating their potential role in the adaptive mechanisms of plants. RNA-seq and RT-qPCR analyses demonstrated that numerous GhDnaJs are upregulated in response to various abiotic stress conditions, such as GhDnaJ94. Subsequent VIGS experiments revealed that GhDnaJ94 positively regulates the drought stress in cotton. This study provides a detailed perspective on GhDnaJs in cotton, identifying potential genes that could be targeted to enhance plant resilience to abiotic stresses and offering valuable insights for future cotton breeding programs aimed at improving stress resistance.