Expression of the RORα Gene in Inner Mongolian Cashmere Goat Hair Follicles

The study examined the expression of the RORα gene in the hair follicles of Inner Mongolian cashmere goats and found that RORα is expressed in different parts of the hair follicle. The research used qRT-PCR and in situ hybridization techniques on 30 skin biopsy samples from 6 adult goats collected across various months. Results showed no significant difference in RORα mRNA levels throughout most of the year, except for a significant increase in December. This pattern suggests that melatonin, which is known to regulate seasonal cashmere growth, may influence hair growth through the RORα receptor, particularly in December when cashmere growth slows down. The study also discusses the role of melatonin and prolactin in regulating hair follicle growth and their correlation with cashmere traits. Further research is needed to confirm the consistency of mRNA expression with protein levels and to understand the precise role of RORα in hair growth. The study contributes to the understanding of cashmere growth and could lead to improvements in cashmere production and quality.