TLDR The KRTAP21-2 gene affects wool length and quality in sheep.
The study investigated the ovine Keratin-Associated Protein 21-2 (KRTAP21-2) gene in 389 Merino × Southdown-cross lambs, identifying five variants (A-E) and their association with wool traits. Notably, sheep with genotype AC had a 12.5% greater mean staple length (MSL) compared to those with genotype CE. Variant E was linked to lower MSL and higher fiber diameter standard deviation (FDSD), mean fiber diameter (MFD), and prickle factor (PF). The findings suggested that KRTAP21-2 could be a potential gene-marker for improving wool traits, emphasizing the genetic influence on wool characteristics and the potential for selective breeding.
7 citations,
July 2019 in “Animals” The KRTAP21-1 gene affects wool yield and can help improve wool production.
42 citations,
January 2017 in “Genes” The gene KAP22-1 affects wool yield and fiber shape in sheep.
98 citations,
May 2016 in “Genes” Understanding wool keratin-associated proteins in sheep can help improve wool quality through selective breeding.
53 citations,
June 2005 in “The journal of investigative dermatology/Journal of investigative dermatology” KAP genes show significant genetic variability, but its impact on hair traits is unclear.
100 citations,
December 2002 in “Journal of biological chemistry/The Journal of biological chemistry” Researchers mapped and categorized specific keratin-associated protein genes on human chromosome 21q22.1.
10 citations,
November 2021 in “International journal of molecular sciences” Sheep and goat hair fibers are complex due to keratin-associated proteins, which are important for fiber properties and growth.
The KRTAP36-2 gene in sheep affects wool yield.
7 citations,
July 2019 in “Animals” The KRTAP21-1 gene affects wool yield and can help improve wool production.
1 citations,
September 2023 in “Animals” A new goat gene affects cashmere fiber thickness; certain variations can make the fibers coarser.
98 citations,
May 2016 in “Genes” Understanding wool keratin-associated proteins in sheep can help improve wool quality through selective breeding.