Regulation of Cashmere Fineness Traits by Noncoding RNA in Jiangnan Cashmere Goats

This study explores the role of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) in determining cashmere fineness in Jiangnan cashmere goats by analyzing the expression profiles of lncRNAs, miRNAs, and circRNAs in the skin tissues of 8 goats. Researchers identified 34,979 ncRNAs, including 16,437 lncRNAs, 2,234 circRNAs, and 1,322 miRNAs, with 403 differentially expressed lncRNAs, 62 circRNAs, and 30 miRNAs between fine and coarse cashmere groups. Key ncRNAs and their target genes, such as COL5A1, PTCH2, and SOX18, were linked to hair follicle development and hair growth. The study highlights the complex regulatory mechanisms of ncRNAs in skin differentiation and development, offering valuable insights for genetic improvement and breeding programs in cashmere goats.