Transcriptome Dynamics Reveal Stage-Specific and Melatonin-Triggered Gene Expression Patterns During the Cashmere Growth Cycle in Capra Hircus

This study investigates gene expression patterns during the cashmere growth cycle in Capra hircus, focusing on melatonin's effects. Using RNA-sequencing on hair follicles from six goats, researchers identified 3559 seasonal changing genes (SCGs) in the control group and 988 in the melatonin-treated group, categorized into anagen, catagen, and telogen stages. Key pathways like Wnt, TGF-beta, and Hippo were linked to cashmere growth, while immune-related pathways were associated with catagen and telogen stages. Melatonin treatment altered gene expression, leading to an additional shedding period and early growth cycle restart, highlighting melatonin's potential to enhance cashmere yield.