Identification of the Keratin-Associated Protein 22-2 Gene in Capra Hircus and Its Association with Cashmere Traits

The study involved 356 Longdong Cashmere goats and identified a new gene, Keratin-Associated Protein 22-2 (KRTAP22-2), in goats. This gene was found to significantly influence the diameter of cashmere fibers. Four single nucleotide polymorphism sites (SNPs) were detected in the KRTAP22-2 gene, and a specific variation, allele B, was associated with a 2.2% increase in mean fiber diameter. The presence of allele B could lead to the production of coarser cashmere fibers, suggesting that selecting goats without this allele could result in finer cashmere. The study also found that a mutation in the coding region of the KRTAP22-2 gene may affect the structure or expression of the KAP22-2 protein, thereby influencing the average fiber diameter trait of cashmere. This new gene could play a significant role in goat breeding programs aimed at reducing cashmere fiber diameter.