TLDR The research found specific proteins that affect fiber characteristics and hair growth in sheep and goats.
The study used an iTRAQ-based proteomic approach to analyze 27 fiber samples from sheep and goats, identifying proteins that contribute to fiber diversity. Key proteins identified included keratin and keratin-associated proteins, as well as those related to hair growth and fatty acid synthesis. The DSC2 gene was highlighted as a significant determinant of woolly versus straight hair in goats. This research provided a valuable list of candidate proteins for future studies on the molecular mechanisms underlying fiber diversity in fiber-producing animals.
98 citations,
May 2016 in “Genes” Understanding wool keratin-associated proteins in sheep can help improve wool quality through selective breeding.
35 citations,
April 2014 in “Journal of proteomics” Feed restriction in sheep leads to finer wool fibers but may reduce wool quality.
46 citations,
January 2009 in “Textile Research Journal” Researchers developed a new method to identify animal hair in textiles, which is effective for various fibers and more reliable than previous methods.
41 citations,
May 2005 in “International Journal of Cosmetic Science” Human hair contains various lipids that vary among individuals and help protect the hair.
22 citations,
April 2020 in “Scientific reports” Changthangi goats have specific genes that help produce Pashmina wool.
26 citations,
April 2019 in “Genes” lncRNA XLOC_008679 and gene KRT35 affect cashmere fineness in goats.
3 citations,
November 2021 in “Frontiers in Genetics” Certain genes are linked to the quality of cashmere in goats.
17 citations,
August 2018 in “BMC Genomics” The HOXC13 gene affects different hair proteins in cashmere goats in varied ways and is controlled by a feedback loop and other factors.
9 citations,
February 2022 in “BMC Genomics” Melatonin affects gene expression in goat hair follicles, potentially increasing cashmere production.
