# Transcriptome and proteome combined analysis of wool fiber diameter regulation mechanism

## TL;DR

This study explores how genes and proteins regulate wool fiber thickness in sheep, aiming to improve wool quality.

## Contribution

The study identifies novel microRNAs, circular RNAs, and genes involved in regulating wool fiber diameter through transcriptome and proteome analysis.

## Key findings

- Key microRNAs and circular RNAs were identified as regulators of wool fiber diameter.
- Genes related to energy and lipid metabolism were found to be closely associated with wool fiber thickness.
- Triglyceride and energy metabolic pathways were revealed as significant factors influencing wool fiber diameter.

## Abstract

The diameter of wool fiber is a crucial phenotypic trait and a key determinant affecting its economic value. Understanding the regulatory mechanisms that influence wool fiber diameter is a fundamental approach to optimizing wool fineness.

This study involved the selection of fine-wool Alpine Merino sheep with three distinct fiber diameter ranges for detailed whole-transcriptome and proteome analyses of skin tissues.

This led to the identification of key microRNAs (oar-miR-23a, oar-miR-23b, oar-miR-150, and oar-miR-218a), critical circular RNAs (circRNA3051, circRNA0315, and circRNA_1477), and multiple pivotal genes (LOC10112037, LOC105614079, IGFBP1, IGFBP4, and MAPK9). Correlation analysis was utilized to develop a comprehensive regulatory network, revealing a close regulation of wool fiber diameter and both energy metabolism and lipid metabolism.

This study found that the triglyceride and energy metabolic pathways as significant factors influencing of wool fiber diameter, thus offering a theoretical basis for promoting wool industry through the refinement of wool diameter and quality.