Comparative transcriptome and histological analyses provide insights into the skin pigmentation in Minxian black fur sheep (Ovis aries).

ABSTRACT:

Background

Minxian black fur (MBF) sheep are found in the northwestern parts of China. These sheep have developed several special traits. Skin color is a phenotype subject to strong natural selection and diverse skin colors are likely a consequence of differences in gene regulation.

Methods

Skin structure, color differences, and gene expression (determined by RNA sequencing) were evaluated the Minxian black fur and Small-tail Han sheep (n = 3 each group), which are both native Chinese sheep breeds.

Results

Small-tail Han sheep have a thicker skin and dermis than the Minxian black fur sheep (P < 0.01); however, the quantity of melanin granules is greater (P < 0.01) in Minxian black fur sheep with a more extensive distribution in skin tissue and hai

SUBMITTER: Shi X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8086576 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature