Whole-Transcriptome RNA Sequencing Reveals Global Expression Dynamics and ceRNA Regulatory Networks Related to Hair Follicle Development and Melanogenesis in Goats

This study utilized whole-transcriptome RNA sequencing to explore the molecular mechanisms behind hair follicle development and melanogenesis in goats, focusing on the Dazu Black Goat (DBG) and the Inner Mongolia Cashmere Goat (IMCG). The research involved 15 DBG and 17 IMCG samples, with detailed analysis of hair follicle density, length, diameter, and melanin content. Results showed that IMCG had higher hair follicle density, hair length, and cashmere diameter, while DBG had thicker hair diameter and higher melanin content. A total of 640 differentially expressed RNAs were identified, including mRNAs, lncRNAs, miRNAs, and circRNAs, which were enriched in pathways related to melanogenesis and hair follicle development. The study constructed co-expression networks, providing insights into the regulatory mechanisms of coat color and hair follicle development, with potential implications for breeding and textile applications.