The Functions of Ocu-miR-205 in Regulating Hair Follicle Development in Rex Rabbits

The study investigated the role of ocu-miR-205 in hair follicle development in Rex rabbits, focusing on its impact on dermal papilla cells (DPCs). It was found that ocu-miR-205-5p was more highly expressed in low hair density DPCs compared to high density ones. This miRNA influenced cell proliferation, apoptosis, and the cell cycle, affecting key signaling pathways such as PI3K/Akt, Wnt, Notch, and BMP. While primary follicle density remained unchanged, secondary and total follicle densities were altered, with an increased secondary/primary ratio observed 14 days post-injection. The findings suggested that ocu-miR-205 promoted DPC apoptosis and the transition of hair follicles from growth to regression and resting phases, thereby affecting hair density in Rex rabbits.