Whole-Genome Bisulfite Sequencing of Goat Skins Identifies Signatures Associated with Hair Cycling

The study investigated the role of DNA methylation in hair follicle cycling, specifically in cashmere goats, by comparing genome-wide DNA methylation profiles of skin tissues during the growth (anagen) and rest (telogen) stages using whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS). The results showed higher methylation in telogen stage skin samples and identified 1311 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) containing 493 annotated genes (269 more methylated during telogen, and 224 less methylated). These genes were significantly associated with immune response and cell communication functions related to hair cycling. By correlating methylation with gene expression data, four genes (FMN1, PCOLCE, SPTLC3, and COL5A1) were highlighted as key to understanding the epigenetic mechanisms of the transition from telogen to anagen. This research provided detailed methylation maps for hair cycle stages and identified genes that may be crucial for hair follicle development and growth, not only in goats but potentially in other mammals as well.