Biotechnology development in cotton fiber: strategies, applications, and socio-economic impact

Classical breeding provides the means for transferring genes among compatible cotton cultivars, and thereby narrows the number of fibers traits that can be enhanced. On the other hand, recombinant DNA technology provides ways to transfer genes from any living organism into cotton, and therefore opens the door for improving existing fiber quality as well as producing fibers with new and novel properties. As new generations of cotton fibers are developed through genetic engineering, they will impact on the textile industry which is a significant segment of economies of many countries. This article focuses on the recent advances in cotton fiber biotechnology and its impact. The genetic strategies for producing speciality fibers, such as wrinkle-free polyster fibers, coloured fibers and fibers with immobilized enzymes, are examined. In addition, an outline about fiber modification genes, such as hormone and cellulose genes, is provided. Finally, the socio-economic impact of such development on the cotton industry in developing countries is discussed.