Detection of a Second KAP22 Family Member in Sheep and Analysis of Its Genetic Variation and Associations with Selected Wool Fiber Traits

The study identified a second member of the KAP22 gene family, KRTAP22-2, in sheep and analyzed its genetic variation and association with wool traits. Involving 255 Chinese Tan lambs, the research found no significant association between KRTAP22-2 genotypes and wool traits such as mean fibre diameter and fibre curvature. Despite the presence of the gene, it may not influence wool traits in sheep as it does in goats, suggesting species-specific differences and highlighting the need for further research on its role in sheep.