Polymorphisms and Association of FAT1 Gene With Wool Quality Traits in Chinese Merino Sheep

The study investigated the FAT1 gene in Chinese Merino sheep, focusing on its expression, polymorphisms, and association with wool quality traits. Seven SNPs were identified, with SNPs 2 and 7 significantly associated with wool crimp, and SNPs 4 and 5 linked to wool fibre length. SNP 7 was notably associated with average wool fibre diameter. FAT1 haplotypes also showed significant associations with wool crimp. Bioinformatics analysis suggested these SNPs might influence pre-mRNA splicing and mRNA structure. The findings indicated that FAT1 and its SNPs could serve as markers for improving wool quality through selective breeding.