Methionine Levels in the Diet for Pregnant Female Rabbits Affect Hair Follicle Development of Baby Rabbits

The study investigated the impact of dietary methionine levels on hair follicle development in baby rabbits. Fifty-four pregnant Angora rabbits were divided into three groups, each receiving diets with 0.51%, 0.71%, and 0.91% methionine. Results showed that higher methionine levels tended to increase hair follicle density and diameter at various stages, with significant improvements in fine hair diameter at 2 months in the 0.91% group. The ratio of secondary to primary follicles increased with age, and primary and secondary follicle diameters grew at different rates depending on methionine levels. The study concluded that higher methionine levels in the diet of pregnant rabbits stimulated hair follicle development and improved hair fiber diameter in their offspring.