IRF2BP2 Genes Provide New Insights Into Coat Type and Fiber Composition Variation in Sheep

This study on sheep coat type and fiber composition reveals that the IRF2BP2 gene, specifically the asEIF2S2 insertion and T7068586C SNP, plays a crucial role in determining fleece structure. Analyzing 692 ewes from various breeds, researchers found that the asEIF2S2 insertion is fixed in single-coated breeds and significantly influences fiber traits, increasing the non-medullated fiber ratio (NMFR) and decreasing hair fiber diameter (HFD). The T7068586C SNP, present in double-coated breeds, also affects NMFR and HFD. The optimal genotype combination, ++/CC, results in the highest NMFR and finest fibers, making it a valuable tool for improving fleece quality through marker-assisted selection. These findings provide new insights into the genetic basis of sheep fleece variation.