Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Fetal Skin Reveals Key Genes Related to Hair Follicle Morphogenesis in Cashmere Goats

This study conducted a transcriptome analysis on nine skin samples from cashmere goats at different developmental stages (60-day-old embryos, 120-day-old embryos, and newborns) to identify key genes involved in hair follicle morphogenesis. The research revealed that primary hair follicles (PHF) initiated at 60 days and matured by 120 days, while secondary hair follicles (SHF) differentiated from 120 days to after birth. The study identified 1,024 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between 60 and 120 days, and 1,801 DEGs between 60 days and newborns, with no significant differences between 120 days and newborns. Key genes such as B4GALT4, TNC, a-integrin, and FGFR1 were up-regulated during HF initiation, while others like GPRC5D and HOXC13 were involved in keratinization and hair shaft differentiation. The study highlighted the roles of immune privilege, glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis, and growth factor receptors in HF formation, and emphasized the importance of Wnt, TGF-beta/BMP, and Notch pathways in HF differentiation and maturation. These findings were considered crucial for enhancing fleece production quality and quantity.