TLDR Improving knowledge and practices in animal fibre production is crucial to meet market demands and potentially revive natural fibres.
The document reviewed the economic and scientific aspects of animal fibre production, focusing on various fibres like wool, alpaca, and cashmere. It highlighted the decline in demand and research over the past 5-20 years, with examples from Australia and the UK. Efforts by the University of Camerino to sustain scientific partnerships and the formation of the Animal Fibre Working Group were noted. The workshop in Vilnius in 2008 discussed topics such as hair follicle biology, genetic differences, and the effects of nutrients and hormones on hair growth. The review emphasized the need for enhanced biological and ecological knowledge to improve fibre production and noted the potential revival of natural fibres due to rising energy costs. The importance of optimizing animal husbandry and breeding to meet market demands was also stressed.
27 citations,
January 2010 in “Animal” South American camelids should be sheared early, fleece type affects fiber quality, and the S/P follicle ratio doesn't distinguish between Bolivian llama genotypes.
7 citations,
January 2010 in “Animal” Angora goat hair grows faster and produces more protein than cashmere goat hair, and certain hormones and nutrients positively affect hair growth and protein synthesis.
117 citations,
November 2006 in “Experimental Dermatology” The article concludes that the wool follicle is a valuable model for studying tissue interactions and has potential for genetic improvements in wool production.
157 citations,
April 1994 in “Clinical endocrinology” Androgens can cause hair growth in some areas and hair loss on the scalp.
45 citations,
June 2003 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology Symposium Proceedings” Understanding hair follicles through various models can help develop new treatments for hair disorders.
7 citations,
January 2010 in “Animal” Angora goat hair grows faster and produces more protein than cashmere goat hair, and certain hormones and nutrients positively affect hair growth and protein synthesis.
January 2018 in “Elsevier eBooks” The document concludes that alopecia has significant social and psychological effects, leading to a market for hair loss treatments.
30 citations,
April 2018 in “Experimental Dermatology” The article concludes that developing in vitro models for human hair structures is important for research and reducing animal testing, but there are challenges like obtaining suitable samples and the models' limitations.
