Association Between DNA Methylation in the Core Promoter Region of the CUT-Like Homeobox 1 (CUX1) Gene and Lambskin Pattern in Hu Sheep

The study explored the association between DNA methylation in the core promoter region of the CUX1 gene and lambskin patterns in Hu sheep. Despite identifying core promoter and repressive regions, bisulfite amplicon sequencing showed no significant difference in methylation levels between small wave (SM) and straight wool (ST) patterns, suggesting that differential CUX1 expression is not linked to DNA methylation. However, the research enhances understanding of CUX1's role in hair follicle development, providing valuable insights for the Hu sheep lambskin industry.