Tissue-specific expression, functional analysis, and polymorphism of the KRT2 gene in sheep horn

Résumé fourni par la source

Horn is a defensive weapon of sheep, consisting of a horny sheath and a bony core. The KRT2 gene is related to keratinization of the epidermis, so it is likely to be one of the contributor genes affecting horn type in sheep. In this study, we first analyzed the species-specific and tissue-specific expression of the KRT2 gene using transcriptome sequencing data. Then, by comparing the protein sequences of 20 species, we identified 28 specific amino acid sites in Artiodactyla animals, constructed a phylogenetic tree of the KRT2 gene, and predicted its three-dimensional protein structure. Finally, whole genome sequencing data was used and mined 4 functional SNP sites of KRT2 gene, and use KASP assay to verify the loci. In addition, we explored the relationship between the KRT2 gene and the evolution of Artiodactyla animals, and predicted the possible mechanism by which the KRT2 gene affects the horn type of sheep. • The KRT2 gene may regulate sheep horn type by affecting the keratinization process. • Mutations in a key SNP site in the KRT2 gene may affect sheep horn type by influencing amino acid variants in the KRT2 protein. • Amino acid site variants found in the KRT2 protein may be relevant to the evolution of Artiodactyls and sheep.

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