CottonGen 2025: a knowledgebase for cotton genomics, genetics, and breeding research

CottonGen (https://www.cottongen.org) serves as an integrated genomics platform for the cotton research community, combining comprehensive data storage with sophisticated analysis tools built on the Tripal framework. Since its establishment in 2012, CottonGen has consolidated and expanded resources previously scattered across CottonDB and the Cotton Marker Database while developing advanced analytical capabilities. The platform has expanded substantially between 2021 and 2025, with tetraploid genome assemblies and gene annotations increasing 3-fold, genotype datasets doubling, and phenotype records growing 1.8-fold. Recent developments include enhanced search and visualization capabilities through updated Map Viewer and Breeding Information Management System tools, integration of genome-wide association studies and gene expression analysis via new Tripal modules, and implementation of Genotype Investigator for Genome-Wide Analyses for interactive large-scale genotyping data exploration. Beyond data storage, CottonGen provides integrated analysis workflows spanning sequence similarity searches, synteny analysis, expression profiling, marker-trait association studies, and breeding data management. These capabilities support diverse research applications from comparative genomics and gene discovery to marker-assisted selection and cultivar development. As the official platform for the International Cotton Genome Initiative, CottonGen helps coordinate global cotton research efforts and maintains a comprehensive, actively curated resource that evolves with community research priorities.