Developmental Mapping of Hair Follicles in the Embryonic Stages of Cashmere Goats Using Proteomic and Metabolomic Construction

This study mapped hair follicle (HF) development in embryonic cashmere goats using proteomic and metabolomic analyses, identifying 1,784 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) and 454 differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) across stages E75 to E125. Key findings include the significant role of the oxytocin signaling pathway, which activates the MAPK and Ca2+ pathways, influencing HF development. The study also highlighted the importance of the neuroactive ligand–receptor interaction pathway and various metabolic pathways, such as nucleotide and cholesterol metabolism. These insights provide a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving HF development in cashmere goats, potentially informing breeding and genetic engineering strategies to improve cashmere quality.