Exosomes serve as a crucial mediator of epithelial–fibroblast communication during hair follicle morphogenesis in cashmere goats

This study investigates the role of epithelial cell-derived exosomes (Epi-Exos) in hair follicle morphogenesis in Inner Mongolian cashmere goats. Epi-Exos were found to efficiently enter fibroblasts and promote their migration while inhibiting proliferation, which are key processes in the formation of dermal condensates (DCs). Small RNA sequencing identified 54 highly expressed miRNAs in Epi-Exos, with 34 also abundant in fetal skin tissues, suggesting their involvement in hair follicle development. The findings highlight the significance of Epi-Exos in epithelial-fibroblast communication and offer insights into potential applications for improving cashmere quality and yield through targeted exosome-mediated signaling.