Expression of the Wnt Signaling Pathway and Hair Follicle Development in Rex Rabbits of Different Ages

This study investigated hair follicle development and Wnt signaling pathways in Rex rabbits at different ages, using 6 rabbits aged 15 to 150 days. Results showed significant increases in body weight, coat length, skin thickness, skin area, and skin weight with age. Hair follicle density was highest at 120 days, with major follicles in the growing period at 15 and 30 days, entering degeneration by 60 days, and most in degeneration by 90 days. At 120 and 150 days, follicles re-entered the growing period, with secondary follicles clearly differentiated. Gene expression related to the Wnt pathway varied significantly with age, with notable increases in certain genes at 60 and 90 days. Protein phosphorylation levels also varied, peaking at different ages. The study concludes that age affects fur quality and hair follicle traits, with the Wnt pathway playing a key role in hair follicle development, suggesting that Rex rabbits should not be slaughtered before 120 days for optimal fur quality.