Fiber Development Research Articles

Unravelling the genetic basis and regulation networks related to fibre quality improvement using chromosome segment substitution lines in cotton.

The elucidation of genetic architecture and molecular regulatory networks underlying complex traits remains a significant challenge in life science, largely due to the substantial background effects that arise from epistasis and gene-environment interactions. The chromosome segment substitution line (CSSL) is an ideal material for genetic and molecular dissection of complex traits due to its near-isogenic properties; yet a comprehensive analysis, from the basic identification of substitution segments to advanced regulatory network, is still insufficient. Here, we developed two cotton CSSL populations on the Gossypium hirsutum background, representing wide adaptation and high lint yield, with introgression from G. barbadense, representing superior fibre quality. We sequenced 99 CSSLs that demonstrated significant differences from G. hirsutum in fibre, and characterized 836 dynamic fibre transcriptomes in three crucial developmental stages. We developed a workflow for precise resolution of chromosomal substitution segments; the genome sequencing revealed substitutions collectively representing 87.25% of the G.barbadense genome. Together, the genomic and transcriptomic survey identified 18 novel fibre-quality-related quantitative trait loci with high genetic contributions and the comprehensive landscape of fibre development regulation. Furthermore, analysis determined unique cis-expression patterns in CSSLs to be the driving force for fibre quality alteration; building upon this, the co-expression regulatory network revealed biological relationships among the noted pathways and accurately described the molecular interactions of GhHOX3, GhRDL1 and GhEXPA1 during fibre elongation, along with reliable predictions for their interactions with GhTBA8A5. Our study will enhance more strategic employment of CSSL in crop molecular biology and breeding programmes.

Effect of incubation conditions of cellulase hydrolysis on mechanical pulp fibre morphology

The mechanical pulp industry is diversifying through the manufacture of high-value paper products, such as microfibrillated cellulose. However, the development of fibre quality is still energy-intensive. Enzymatic hydrolysis is hypothesized to promote fibre cutting, greater fibrillation, and reduce refining energy costs. Despite potential benefits, there is little understanding of the mechanisms behind fibre development during enzymatic hydrolysis of mechanical pulp. This work investigates how incubation pH and temperature during enzymatic hydrolysis impact the refining of mechanical pulp short fibres. Incubation with endoglucanase at pH 5 and 60 °C increased fibre cutting by approximately 20 %. Fibrillation was negatively affected at this condition, resulting in increased slim fines formation with refining. Incubation at pH 8 and 80 °C promoted >15 % reduction in fibre length, despite such conditions being associated with low enzyme activity. The pH variation modified the sedimentation height of the fibres and the conductivity of suspensions, indicating a change in fibre surface charge. Fibre morphology changes were induced by enzyme hydrolysis conducted at conditions representative of the full range of pH and temperature observed in mechanical pulp mills.

Sphingosine Promotes Fiber Early Elongation in Upland Cotton.

Sphingolipids play an important role in cotton fiber development, but the regulatory mechanism is largely unclear. We found that serine palmitoyltransferase (SPT) enzyme inhibitors, myriocin and sphingosine (dihydrosphingosine (DHS) and phytosphingosine (PHS)), affected early fiber elongation in cotton, and we performed a sphingolipidomic and transcriptomic analysis of control and PHS-treated fibers. Myriocin inhibited fiber elongation, while DHS and PHS promoted it in a dose-effect manner. Using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), we found that contents of 22 sphingolipids in the PHS-treated fibers for 10 days were changed, of which the contents of 4 sphingolipids increased and 18 sphingolipids decreased. The transcriptome analysis identified 432 differentially expressed genes (238 up-regulated and 194 down-regulated) in the PHS-treated fibers. Among them, the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway is the most significant enrichment. The expression levels of transcription factors such as MYB, ERF, LBD, and bHLH in the fibers also changed, and most of MYB and ERF were up-regulated. Auxin-related genes IAA, GH3 and BIG GRAIN 1 were up-regulated, while ABPs were down-regulated, and the contents of 3 auxin metabolites were decreased. Our results provide important sphingolipid metabolites and regulatory pathways that influence fiber elongation.

Comparison of kink-band structures and specificities of cell wall polysaccharides in modern and ancient flax fibres

Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) is a plant of industrial importance, its fibres being presently used for high-value textile applications, composite reinforcements as well as natural actuators. Human interest in this fibre-rich plant dates back several millennia, including to Ancient Egypt where flax was used extensively in various quotidian items. While the recent technical developments of flax fibres continue to diversify through scientific research, the historical use of flax also has rich lessons for today. Through careful examination of ancient Egyptian and modern flax fibres, this study aims to conduct a multi-scale characterization from the yarn to the fibre cell wall scale, linking differences in structure and polysaccharide content to the mechanical performance and durability of flax. Here, a multi-scale biochemical study is enriched by scanning electron microscopy and nanomechanical investigations. A key finding is the similarity of cellulose features, crystallinity index and local mechanical performances between ancient and modern fibres. Biochemically speaking, monosaccharides analysis, deep-UV and NMR investigations demonstrate that ancient fibres exhibit less pectins but a similar hemicellulosic content, especially through uronic acids and galactose, suggesting the sensitivity of these non-crystalline components.

Identifying candidate genes and biological pathways in muscle development through multi-tissue transcriptome comparisons between male and female geese

Males and females have long shown disparities in body weight and height; yet, the underlying mechanisms influencing growth and development remain unclear. Male and female Zhedong White Geese (ZDW) geese have long been selected for large body size and egg production, respectively. This led to a large difference in body weight between males and females, making them a unique model for studying the effects of sex on growth and development. This study aimed to elucidate these mechanisms by comparing the transcriptomes of muscle and pituitary tissues in male and female ZDW geese to identify the critical genes responsible for the effects of sex on growth performance. Our analysis revealed 1101 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in leg musculature (507 upregulated, 594 downregulated), 773 DEGs in breast musculature (311 upregulated, 462 downregulated), and 517 DEGs in the pituitary gland (281 upregulated, 236 downregulated) between male and female geese. These DEGs were significantly enriched in gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways associated with endocrine metabolism (e.g., hormonal activities), muscle formation (e.g., sarcomere and myofibril), and bone formation (e.g., bone morphogenesis and cartilage formation). The upregulated genes in males were enriched in KEGG pathways involving nutrient digestion and absorption (vitamin and protein), as well as the secretion of digestive juices (gastric acid and bile). Through protein–protein interaction analyses, we also observed high-density gene networks related to muscle fiber development, calcium ion metabolism, mitochondrial respiratory chain, and bone development. Therefore, our multi-tissue transcriptome analysis provides a deeper understanding of the complex and systematic gender-driven effects on growth and development in geese. IGF1, GHRHR, and NCAPG-LCORL and pathways related to myogenesis might play vital roles in gender differences before hormones exert their effect.

Cotton BOP1 mediates SUMOylation of GhBES1 to regulate fibre development and plant architecture.

The Arabidopsis BLADE-ON-PETIOLE (BOP) genes are primarily known for their roles in regulating leaf and floral patterning. However, the broader functions of BOPs in regulating plant traits remain largely unexplored. In this study, we investigated the role of the Gossypium hirsutum BOP1 gene in the regulation of fibre length and plant height through the brassinosteroid (BR) signalling pathway. Transgenic cotton plants overexpressing GhBOP1 display shorter fibre lengths and reduced plant height compared to the wild type. Conversely, GhBOP1 knockdown led to increased plant height and longer fibre, indicating a connection with phenotypes influenced by the BR pathway. Our genetic evidence supports the notion that GhBOP1 regulates fibre length and plant height in a GhBES1-dependent manner, with GhBES1 being a major transcription factor in the BR signalling pathway. Yeast two-hybrid, luciferase complementation assay and pull-down assay results demonstrated a direct interaction between GhBOP1 and GhSUMO1, potentially forming protein complexes with GhBES1. In vitro and in vivo SUMOylation analyses revealed that GhBOP1 functions in an E3 ligase-like manner to mediate GhBES1 SUMOylation and subsequent degradation. Therefore, our study not only uncovers a novel mechanism of GhBES1 SUMOylation but also provides significant insights into how GhBOP1 regulates fibre length and plant height by controlling GhBES1 accumulation.

High‐Performance Zn2+‐Crosslinked MXene Fibers for Versatile Flexible Electronics

AbstractThe advent of flexible electronics has prompted the development of functional fibers with superior mechanical and electrical properties. MXenes, a novel family of 2D functional materials, have a variety of potential applications in flexible electronics. Herein, wet‐spinning is employed to continuously assemble Ti3C2Tx MXene liquid crystals into macroscopic fibers. Meanwhile, Zn2+ is introduced into the fiber to eliminate the electrostatic repulsion between the MXene nanosheets and enhance interlayer interactions and sheet alignment. The as‐obtained MXene fibers have strong mechanical strength (150.7 MPa), high electrical conductivity (3637.9 S cm−1), and good flexibility that facilitates weaving and knotting, making them suitable for fabric‐like flexible devices. The sound pressure sensors are woven from MXene fibers, which feature quick response time (286 ms) and recovery time (642 ms), ultra‐high sensitivity (280.2 kPa−1), and a low detection limit (0.1 Pa). Sound detection and recording are achieved using this sensor. MXene fibers as wearable thermal management devices are also demonstrated, exhibiting fast Joule thermal responses and good cycling stability.

Will the fibers of the future be considered fibers?

This work explores the pivotal breakthroughs and historical developments in fibers over the past century, while also identifying future research directions and emerging trends that promise to shape the future of this field.

Expression profile analysis of cotton fiber secondary cell wall thickening stage.

To determine the genes associated with the fiber strength trait in cotton, three different cotton cultivars were selected: Sea Island cotton (Xinhai 32, with hyper-long fibers labeled as HL), and upland cotton (17-24, with long fibers labeled as L, and 62-33, with short fibers labeled as S). These cultivars were chosen to assess fiber samples with varying qualities. RNA-seq technology was used to analyze the expression profiles of cotton fibers at the secondary cell wall (SCW) thickening stage (20, 25, and 30 days post-anthesis (DPA)). The results showed that a large number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained from the three assessed cotton cultivars at different stages of SCW development. For instance, at 20 DPA, Sea Island cotton (HL) had 6,215 and 5,364 DEGs compared to upland cotton 17-24 (L) and 62-33 (S), respectively. Meanwhile, there were 1,236 DEGs between two upland cotton cultivars, 17-24 (L) and 62-33 (S). Gene Ontology (GO) term enrichment identified 42 functions, including 20 biological processes, 11 cellular components, and 11 molecular functions. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis identified several pathways involved in SCW synthesis and thickening, such as glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, galactose metabolism, propanoate metabolism, biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids pathway, valine, leucine and isoleucine degradation, fatty acid elongation pathways, and plant hormone signal transduction. Through the identification of shared DEGs, 46 DEGs were found to exhibit considerable expressional differences at different fiber stages from the three cotton cultivars. These shared DEGs have functions including REDOX enzymes, binding proteins, hydrolases (such as GDSL thioesterase), transferases, metalloproteins (cytochromatin-like genes), kinases, carbohydrates, and transcription factors (MYB and WRKY). Therefore, RT-qPCR was performed to verify the expression levels of nine of the 46 identified DEGs, an approach which demonstrated the reliability of RNA-seq data. Our results provided valuable molecular resources for clarifying the cell biology of SCW biosynthesis during fiber development in cotton.

Highly sensitive surface plasmon resonance sensor based on the anti-resonant fiber with six nested tubes

On the heels of the continuous development of optical fiber sensing technology, optical fiber sensors based on surface plasmon resonance (SPR) have attracted widespread attention. Herein, an SPR sensor based on the six nested anti-resonant fiber (ARF) is designed and analyzed by the finite element method (FEM). All the structural parameters are optimized to achieve high-sensitivity liquid refractive index detection. Filling the anti-resonant tube with plasmonic materials to excite SPR can further reduce the manufacturing complexity. The optimal ARF-SPR sensor has excellent characteristics, including an average wavelength sensitivity of 42,000 nm/RIU, maximum sensor length of 0.08 cm, and resolution of 1.61×10−6RIU. The ARF-SPR sensor has great potential in chemical analysis, biomedicine, and other fields.

The lignin riddle in jute: A comparative genomic investigation identifies targets for improving fiber quality

Jute fiber has become more popular in recent years due to its renewability, biodegradability, low manufacturing costs, and wide range of uses. However, one of the major components of fiber is lignin, which impairs the fiber quality and, as a result, makes jute fiber unsuitable for use in the textile industry and biofuel production. The availability of the jute (Corchorus olitorius) genome sequence provides the opportunity to perform a systematic analysis of the gene families and transcription factors specific to the lignin biosynthesis. Here, genome-wide screening was performed to identify the members of gene families associated with lignin biosynthesis in jute. Following this, phylogenetic analysis was carried out with functionally characterized genes involved in lignin biosynthesis of other species. The expression analysis among different tissues and different regions of bark tissue, taking into account fiber developmental stages, is also conducted to identify the genes mainly involved in jute fiber lignification. Fourteen genes and eleven transcription factors belonged to bona fide clades and showed strong expression in highly lignified tissues. Moreover, the transcript levels of these proteins were higher in the bottom bark tissues, which have a higher lignin accumulation compared to the top bark tissues, suggesting these genes were the core lignification genes in fiber formation. Similarly, gene ontology and protein-protein interactions analysis indicated that these genes were mainly involved in lignin biosynthesis and interacted with each other. The identification of the major lignification genes and transcription factors involved in jute fiber development provides a strong foundation for the development of jute cultivars to improve fiber quality.

Design and development of photonic crystal fiber for application of milk purity detection: an approach of performance analysis

Design and development of photonic crystal fiber for application of milk purity detection: an approach of performance analysis

Changes of mRNA, miRNA and lncRNA expression contributing to skeletal muscle differences between fetus and adult Mongolian horses

The growth and development of myofibers, as the fundamental units comprising muscle tissue, and their composition type are indeed among the most crucial factors influencing skeletal muscle types. Muscle fiber adaptation is closely associated with alterations in physiological conditions. Muscle fiber types undergo dynamic changes in fetus and adult horses. Our aim is to investigate the mechanisms influencing the differences in muscle fiber types between fetal and adult stages of Mongolian horses. The study investigated the distribution of muscle fiber types within longissimus dorsi muscle of fetus and adult Mongolian horses. A total of 652 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), 476 Differentially expressed lncRNAs (DELs), and 174 Differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMIRs) were identified using deep RNA-seq analysis. The results of functional analysis reveal the transformations in muscle fiber type from the fetal to adult stage in Mongolian horses. The up-regulated DEGs were implicated in the development and differentiation of muscle fibers, while down-regulated DEGs were associated with muscle fiber contraction, transformation, and metabolism. Additionally, connections between non-coding RNA and mRNA landscapes were identified based on their functional alterations, some non-coding RNA target genes may be associated with immunity. These data have broadened our understanding of the specific roles and interrelationships among regulatory molecules involved in Mongolian horse development, this provides new perspectives for selecting and breeding superior individuals and for disease prevention.

Development and Characterization of Pineapple Leaf Fibre Reinforced with Graphene and Fibre Glass Composites for Aerospace Application

Natural fibre-based compositessuch as Pineapple leaf fibre (PALF)are valued for their environmental friendliness and unique properties, can be combined with graphene and glass fibres to create advanced aerospace composites. This study investigates the effects of graphene content and PALF composition on the mechanical properties of the composite. PALF is made using environmentally friendly methods, with graphene treated for better integration and fibre glass added through layering. This study compares the strength and flexibility of two samples with different PALF-to-fibreglass ratios: 50:50 and 70:30, and one sample with a 70:30 PALF-to-fibreglass ratio reinforced with 1% graphene, using tensile and flexural tests. The 70:30 composition ratio results in a lower maximum tensile strength and Young’s modulus, but a higher bending stress than the 50:50 ratio due to the higher volume of PALF in the sample. 70:30 PALF/fibreglass reinforced with 1% graphene is stiffer, resulting in a higher Young’s modulus compared to the sample without graphene. There is a slight decrease in flexural strength for the 70:30 PALF/fibreglass ratio reinforced with 1% graphene, while still maintaining superior bending stress strength compared to 50:50 ratio compositions. From the SEM test, PALF/fibreglass samples exhibited fibre pull-out, while 70:30 samples reinforced with graphene showed fibre breakage. Graphene enhanced the bonding between fibres and resins, leading to the breakage.Without graphene, weaker bonding led to fibre pull-out. Therefore, the PALF/fibreglass reinforced with graphene has the potential for aerospace applications, particularly in components subjected to high bending stress, such as aircraft wings or the horizontal tail.

Online Education on the Development of Functional Foods and the Nutrients Encapsulation

The modern society lifestyle triggers a tendency for people to consume fast food with high-calorie, low-nutrient, and low-fiber. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, society is becoming more aware of maintaining health by consuming healthy and nutritious foods. Therefore, the target of this educational webinar program was educated individuals in the education sector, and they were expected to influence their surrounding communities to adopt healthy eating patterns through the consumption of functional foods. Oil-in-water (O/W) food emulsions such as milk, mayonnaise, and creamer are widely consumed in processed foods. The development of Fiber CrèmeTM creamer as a substitute for milk/coconut milk, which is low sugar, trans-fat-free, and high fiber, has been produced by PT. LNK to enhance the taste of processed foods and beverages. Compounds such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can be encapsulated within the emulsion system, such as using Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) in creamer products. This webinar was attended by 103 participants, with 80% coming from the education sector. The participants' high level of knowledge and awareness was reflected through online questionnaires and comments. This educational webinar encourages the community to sustainably enhance body immunity by consuming functional foods.

Genetic Analysis of an F2 Population Derived from the Cotton Landrace Hopi Identified Novel Loci for Boll Glanding.

Landraces are an important reservoir of genetic variation that can expand the narrow genetic base of cultivated cotton. In this study, quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis was conducted using an F2 population developed from crosses between the landrace Hopi and inbred TM-1. A high-density genetic map spanning 2253.11 and 1932.21 cM for the A and D sub-genomes, respectively, with an average marker interval of 1.14 cM, was generated using the CottonSNP63K array. The linkage map showed a strong co-linearity with the physical map of cotton. A total of 21 QTLs were identified, controlling plant height (1), bract type (1), boll number (1), stem color (2), boll pitting (2), fuzz fiber development (2), boll shape (3), boll point (4), and boll glanding (5). In silico analysis of the novel QTLs for boll glanding identified a total of 13 candidate genes. Analysis of tissue-specific expression of the candidate genes suggests roles for the transcription factors bHLH1, MYB2, and ZF1 in gland formation. Comparative sequencing of open reading frames identified early stop codons in all three transcription factors in Hopi. Functional validation of these genes offers avenues to reduce glanding and, consequently, lower gossypol levels in cottonseeds without compromising the defense mechanisms of the plant against biotic stresses.

Dyeing of Silk Yarn With Natural Dye from Teak Leaves

Objective: This study investigated the impacts of using teak leaf-derived natural dye for dyeing silk yarn. Theoretical Framework: This research uses a conceptual framework for the development of natural fibers for application in textile production. By testing the properties of dyed fibers obtained from teak trees cultivated in Thailand. which tests the properties of the fibers and the adhesion of colors obtained from teak trees. Method: This research explored two mordanting methods (pre-mordanting and post-mordanting) across varying conditions. The study documented the ideal parameters for dyeing, as well as color values, color strength, and fastness properties of the silk yarn. Results and Discussion: by dyeing at 90°C for 60 minutes with a pH of 3. Silk yarn treated with a mixture of teak leaf extract and a mordant substance displayed a yellowish-brown color, except when dyed with ferrous sulfate, which produced a dark gray-brown shade. The silk yarn exhibited fair color fastness when subjected to washing and perspiration, while its resistance to light was rated as poor–moderate. On the other hand, the results in terms of rubbing and water fastness showed a good to very good level. Research Implications: The fibers obtained from the research process have the properties of fibers and color adhesion on the yarn that are highly resistant to washing. Moreover, dyed yarn is beautiful and durable. Originality/Value: These findings underscore the potential utility of teak leaf extract-based natural dyes for silk yarn dyeing.

Embryo thermal manipulation enhances mitochondrial function in the skeletal muscle of heat-stressed broilers by regulating transient receptor potential V2 expression

Heat stress induces mitochondrial dysfunction, thereby impeding skeletal muscle development and significantly impacting the economic efficiency of poultry production. This study aimed to investigate the effects of embryo thermal manipulation (TM, 41.5°C, 65% RH, 3 h/d during 16-18th embryonic age) on the mitochondrial function of the pectoralis major (PM) in broiler chickens exposed to thermoneutral (24 ± 1°C, 60% RH) or cyclic heat stress (35 ± 1°C, 60% RH, 12 h/d) from day 22 to 28, and to explore potential mechanisms involving transient receptor potential V2 (TRPV2). Additionally, in vitro experiments were conducted to assess the regulatory effects of TRPV2 pharmacological activation and inhibition on mitochondrial function in primary myotubes. The results revealed that TM had no discernible effect on the body weight and feed intake of broiler chickens under heat stress conditions (P > 0.05). However, it did delay the increase in rectal temperature and accelerate the decrease in serum T3 levels (P < 0.05). Furthermore, TM promoted the development of PM muscle fibers, significantly increasing myofiber diameter and cross-sectional area (P < 0.05). Under heat stress conditions, TM significantly upregulated the expression of mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) genes and TRPV2 in broiler PM muscle (P < 0.05), with a clear positive correlation observed between the two (P < 0.05). In vitro, pharmacological activation of TRPV2 not only increased its own expression but also enhanced mitochondrial ETC genes expression and oxidative phosphorylation function by upregulating intracellular calcium ion levels (P < 0.05). Conversely, TRPV2 inhibition had the opposite effect. Overall, this study underscores the potential of prenatal thermal manipulation in regulating postnatal broiler skeletal muscle development and mitochondrial function through the modulation of TRPV2 expression.

Exploring the plasmodesmata callose-binding protein gene family in upland cotton: unraveling insights for enhancing fiber length.

Plasmodesmata are transmembrane channels embedded within the cell wall that can facilitate the intercellular communication in plants. Plasmodesmata callose-binding (PDCB) protein that associates with the plasmodesmata contributes to cell wall extension. Given that the elongation of cotton fiber cells correlates with the dynamics of the cell wall, this protein can be related to the cotton fiber elongation. This study sought to identify PDCB family members within the Gossypium. hirsutum genome and to elucidate their expression profiles. A total of 45 distinct family members were observed through the identification and screening processes. The analysis of their physicochemical properties revealed the similarity in the amino acid composition and molecular weight across most members. The phylogenetic analysis facilitated the construction of an evolutionary tree, categorizing these members into five groups mainly distributed on 20 chromosomes. The fine mapping results facilitated a tissue-specific examination of group V, revealing that the expression level of GhPDCB9 peaked five days after flowering. The VIGS experiments resulted in a marked decrease in the gene expression level and a significant reduction in the mature fiber length, averaging a shortening of 1.43-4.77 mm. The results indicated that GhPDCB9 played a pivotal role in the cotton fiber development and served as a candidate for enhancing cotton yield.

Towards Sustainable Textiles for a Safer Planet: Main Topics

The textile branch traditionally uses a surplus of energy, consuming an enormous amount of water, and is responsible for the deterioration of the environment. New solutions are formally focused on a circular economy with an impetus on sustainable development and a world with zero waste. In reality, the aims of circular economy often do not coincide with sustainability issues, and sustainability is, in fact, narrowed to nature-created products (especially fibers) and not renewable resources. The main aims of this article are to critically discuss sustainability aspects of fiber development, textile design, production, use, and recycling or waste treatment. It is demonstrated that despite improvements in sustainability, comprehensive solutions need focused action of specialists from different disciplines with the same target, i.e., real sustainability for a future world. New machinery for the production of textiles without limitations to their thickness is one typical example of the approach to better sustainability. One of the key issues is the selection of sustainable fibers for future textile applications. The benefits and problems of replacing synthetic fibers with natural ones are discussed in detail. The recent techniques of textile waste treatment are presented, and problems with microplastics releasing from textiles are shown.