Correlation and Regression Analysis of the KRT27 and ELOVL4 Genes in Cashmere Fineness and Other Production Performances in Liaoning Cashmere Goats

This study investigates the relationship between polymorphisms in the KRT27 and ELOVL4 genes and production traits in Liaoning cashmere goats. Using PCR-seq and SPSS software, researchers identified SNPs at loci 1919G/A in KRT27 and 28666C/T in ELOVL4, with specific genotypes (GG in KRT27 and CC in ELOVL4) linked to superior cashmere fineness. The GGTT haplotype combination was found to positively influence both cashmere fineness and lactation performance, making it a potential molecular marker for breeding programs. The study highlights the cashmere yield rate as having the greatest impact on production performance, with a correlation coefficient of 0.915. These findings provide a theoretical basis for selecting and breeding new fine-fiber strains of Liaoning cashmere goats.