Editorial: Animal Fibers

The editorial on animal fibers highlights recent research advances in the characterization and production of various animal fibers such as wool, cashmere, and alpaca. Despite their small contribution to global textiles (1.5%), animal fibers are valued for being natural and environmentally friendly. Challenges in the industry include price volatility and a preference for meat production over fiber. The editorial reviews four articles, including Zhang et al.'s foundational work on follicular growth and exosomes, which could influence future research in animal husbandry and skin baldness treatment. Other studies focus on molecular genetics and environmental effects on alpaca fiber, and the economic impact of Angora goat farming. The editorial notes a decline in research volume due to the higher profitability of meat, but emphasizes the need for continued research, especially in regions reliant on fiber production.