Two mutations at KRT74 and EDAR synergistically drive the fine-wool production in Chinese sheep.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Fine-wool sheep are the most common breed used by the wool industry worldwide. Fine-wool sheep have over a three-fold higher follicle density and a 50% smaller fiber diameter than coarse-wool sheep.

Objectives

This study aims to clarify the underlying genetic basis for the denser and finer wool phenotype in fine-wool breeds.

Method

Whole-genome sequences of 140 samples, Ovine HD630K SNP array data of 385 samples, including fine, semi-fine, and coarse wool sheep, as well as skin transcriptomes of nine samples were integrated for genomic selection signature analysis.

Results

Two loci at keratin 74 (KRT74) and ectodysplasin receptor (EDAR) were revealed. Fine-scale analysis in 250 fine/semi-fine and 198 coarse wool sheep narrowed this association to o

SUBMITTER: Liang B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10918353 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature