M6a Methylation Analysis Reveals Networks and Key Genes Underlying the Coarse and Fine Wool Traits in a Full-Sib Merino Family

The study analyzed m6A methylation to understand the differences in wool traits between coarse and fine wool Merino sheep. Researchers found 31,153 m6A peaks and identified 7,208 genes with differential methylation, including key genes like EDAR, FGF5, TCHH, and KRT2, which were linked to wool follicle development. The FGF5 gene, associated with hair length, had higher m6A levels but lower expression in coarse wool sheep, while TCHH was more expressed in fine wool sheep, possibly contributing to their curly wool. The study also highlighted the PI3K/AKT pathway's role in m6A-related gene expression, providing insights into the epigenetic regulation of wool traits.