Selection Signatures in Goats Reveal a Novel Deletion Mutant Underlying Cashmere Yield and Diameter

Researchers sequenced 120 Chinese native goats, including 2 cashmere and 6 ordinary breeds, to uncover genetic changes linked to cashmere traits. They identified candidate genes and pathways, notably the nuclear factor–κB and Wnt signaling pathways, with LHX2 showing the strongest selection signal. A 582-bp deletion upstream of LHX2, more frequent in cashmere goats, likely arose during breeding and influences cashmere yield and diameter. This deletion acts as an insulator, limiting LHX2 expression by disrupting upstream enhancers. These findings enhance understanding of cashmere genetics and support molecular breeding for improved cashmere production.