Transcriptome Profile at Different Physiological Stages Reveals Potential Mechanism for Curly Fleece in Chinese Tan Sheep
August 2013
in “
PloS one
”
TLDR Genetic differences between young and old Tan sheep explain why their fleece changes from curly to straight as they age.
The study investigated the genetic basis of curly fleece in Chinese Tan sheep by analyzing transcriptome profiles at different physiological stages. Researchers used RNA-seq data from 12 sheep and identified 51,215 transcripts, including key genes like TCHH and various keratins. They found 600 differentially expressed transcripts between lamb and adult stages, with significant differences in genes involved in signal transduction and glycoprotein secretion. The up-regulation of the metallothionein 3 isoform in lambs suggested its role in curly fleece formation. The study provided insights into the genetic regulation of fleece characteristics, potentially aiding in understanding human hair disorders.
