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EFFECT OF WATER STRESS, ABSCISIC ACID AND PROLINE ON COTTON PLANTS

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Water stress is a critical abiotic factor that significantly impacts plant growth and productivity, posing a major challenge to agricultural systems worldwide. Cotton (Gossypium spp.), a major fiber crop of economic importance, is particularly susceptible to water scarcity due to its high water requirements and sensitivity to drought conditions. As global climate patterns become increasingly erratic, understanding the mechanisms by which cotton plants respond and adapt to water stress is crucial for developing effective strategies to ensure sustainable cotton production.

When plants experience water stress, they undergo a series of physiological and biochemical changes to cope with the adverse conditions. One of the key signaling molecules involved in mediating these responses is abscisic acid (ABA), a plant hormone known for its role in regulating stomatal closure, inducing root growth, and promoting stress tolerance mechanisms. ABA helps plants to conserve water by reducing transpiration rates through stomatal closure, thus minimizing water loss.

Another important compound that plays a significant role in plant response to water stress is proline, an amino acid with multiple functions in stress tolerance. Proline accumulation has been observed in various plant species under water stress conditions and is believed to play a protective role by stabilizing cellular structures, scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS), and maintaining cellular osmotic balance.

Numerous studies have focused on understanding the individual effects of water stress, ABA, and proline on plants. However, the combined effects of these factors on cotton plants have received limited attention. Investigating their interactive effects may provide valuable insights into the potential synergistic or additive effects on stress tolerance mechanisms in cotton.

Therefore, this study aims to comprehensively explore the effect of water stress, exogenous application of ABA, and proline on cotton plants. By investigating the physiological and biochemical responses of cotton plants to these treatments, we can gain a better understanding of