Secondary Follicle Density Research Articles

Effects of Dietary Selenium Yeast Supplementation in Pregnant Cashmere Goats on the Development of Offspring Hair Follicles

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of maternal dietary selenium yeast (SY) supplementation during pregnancy on the hair follicle development of kids. Sixty pregnant Hanshan white cashmere goats were randomly divided into the con group (fed with a basal diet) and the SY group (fed with a basal diet with 0.4 mg/kg SY). SY was supplemented during the pregnancy until the birth of the kids. The growth performance, cashmere performance, hair follicle characteristics, and serum antioxidant capacity of the kids were periodically determined. The results showed that the birth weight of the kids in the SY group was significantly higher than that in the con group (p < 0.05), and the average weight at 15 days, 1 month, 3 months, and 5 months of age increased by 13.60%, 8.77%, 8.86%, and 3.90%, respectively (p > 0.05). The cashmere fineness at early birth was dramatically reduced with SY supplementation (p < 0.001), whereas cashmere length and production were significantly increased at 5 months of age (p < 0.05). Histology assays indicated that the primary hair follicles were fully developed at birth, and there was no significant difference in the number of primary hair follicles between the two groups (p > 0.05). The number of secondary hair follicles and the number and density of active secondary hair follicles in the SY group at 15 days were significantly higher than those in the con group (p < 0.05) and were increased by 11.18%, 6.18%, and 22.55% at 5 months of age, respectively (p > 0.05). The serum antioxidant capacity analysis revealed that the SY group had higher levels of T-AOC, SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px activities and lower levels of MDA (p > 0.05). These results reveal that the maternal dietary supplementation of SY in gestation can promote the morphogenesis and maturation of secondary hair follicles and increase the number and density of secondary hair follicles by enhancing the body’s antioxidant capacity, contributing to the improvement of cashmere quality and yield.

Effect of a sorbent composition based on aluminum oxide and polydimethylsiloxane on the reproductive system of <i>db/db</i> female mice with genetically determined obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus

Metabolic syndrome, obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus are characterized by the accumulation of toxic metabolic products in the internal environment of the organism. The development of innovative medicines based on a sorbent matrix modified with biologically active molecules remains relevant. The sorbent composition from aluminum oxide and polydimethylsiloxane is considered promising. The aim of the study. To investigate the effect of the sorbent composition from aluminum oxide and polydimethylsiloxane on the uterus and ovaries of db/db mice with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Materials and methods. The sorbent composition (0.665 g/kg in 200 μl of distilled water) was administered to 14-week-old animals through an intragastric tube once a day for 7 days. The comparison groups were female rats injected with placebo (daily intragastrical administration of 200 µl of water for 7 days) and intact animals. Digital images of light-optical preparations stained with hematoxylin and eosin were processed using Image-Pro Plus 4.1 software. In the ovaries, the numerical density of primordial, primary, secondary follicles and corpus luteum was determined. The width of the uterus layers, the diameters of the blood and lymphatic vessels, the width of the interstitial fissures in both organs were measured. The statistical significance of differences was determined using the Mann – Whitney test. Results. In the myometrium and endometrium of the uterus of db/db mice, dilatation of arteries, veins, lymphatic vessels and edema were noted due to the accumulation of tissue fluid in the interstitium layers. There were no tertiary follicles in the ovaries. The introduction of the sorbent composition contributed to a decrease in the diameters of arteries, veins, lymphatic vessels of the uterus, a decrease in edema in both organs due to the narrowing of the prelymphatic slits, and stimulated an increase in the numerical density of secondary follicles. Conclusion. A corrective effect of the sorbent composition of aluminum oxide and polydimethylsiloxane on prelymphatic slits, blood and lymphatic vessels in the uterus and ovaries in db/db mice with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus was revealed.

Melatonin promotes the development of the secondary hair follicles by regulating circMPP5

BackgroundThe quality and yield of cashmere fibre are closely related to the differentiation and development of secondary hair follicles in the skin of cashmere goats. The higher the density of secondary hair follicles, the higher the quality and yield of cashmere from the fleece. Development of secondary hair follicles commences in the embryonic stage of life and is completed 6 months after birth. Preliminary experimental results from our laboratory showed that melatonin (MT) treatment of goat kids after their birth could increase the density of secondary hair follicles and, thus, improve the subsequent yield and quality of cashmere. These changes in the secondary hair follicles resulted from increases in levels of antioxidant and expression of anti-apoptotic protein, and from a reduction in apoptosis. The present study was conducted to explore the molecular mechanism of MT-induced secondary hair follicle differentiation and development by using whole-genome analysis.ResultsMT had no adverse effect on the growth performance of cashmere kids but significantly improved the character of the secondary hair follicles and the quality of cashmere, and this dominant effect continued to the second year. Melatonin promotes the proliferation of secondary hair follicle cells at an early age. The formation of secondary hair follicles in the MT group was earlier than that in the control group in the second year. The genome-wide data results involved KEGG analysis of 1044 DEmRNAs, 91 DElncRNAs, 1054 DEcircRNAs, and 61 DEmiRNAs which revealed that the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway is involved in the development of secondary hair follicles, with key genes (FGF2, FGF21, FGFR3, MAPK3 (ERK1)) being up-regulated and expressed. We also found that the circMPP5 could sponged miR-211 and regulate the expression of MAPK3.ConclusionsWe conclude that MT achieves its effects by regulating the MAPK pathway through the circMPP5 sponged the miR-211, regulating the expression of MAPK3, to induce the differentiation and proliferation of secondary hair follicle cells.In addition there is up-regulation of expression of the anti-apoptotic protein causing reduced apoptosis of hair follicle cells. Collectively, these events increase the numbers of secondary hair follicles, thus improving the production of cashmere from these goats.

Hair Follicle Development and Cashmere Traits in Albas Goat Kids.

The objectives of this trial were to study the growth and development of hair follicles and cashmere traits in cashmere goats and to provide a theoretical basis for the regulation of secondary hair follicle development and the scientific breeding selection of cashmere goats. Twelve single-fetal female kids were selected as research objects. A long-term tracking plan was created to regularly determine their growth performance, cashmere performance, and hair follicle traits. The results showed no significant difference in live weight after the first and second combing. The cashmere yield and unit yield of the first combing were significantly higher than those of the second combing (p < 0.05). Sections of hair follicles showed that the primary hair follicles are almost fully developed by 1 month, and the secondary hair follicles are fully developed by 5-6 months after birth. The primary hair follicle density (PFD) and secondary hair follicle density (SFD) were highest at birth and decreased within 1 month; and SFD was stable at 5-6 months of age. The change of MSFD took a maximum time of 2 to 3 months. The S:P increase reached its peak at 6 months. BMP4 expression increased with time. FGF2, FGF21 and BMP7 were higher at 3 months old than at the other two-time points. In conclusion, this study determined the total development time of primary and secondary hair follicles from morphology and speculated that FGF2, FGF21, and BMP7 may play a regulatory role in developing secondary hair follicles. Therefore, the period from birth to 6 months of age was the best time to regulate secondary hair follicle development in cashmere goats kids. The traits of the hair follicle and cashmere at 6 months of age could be breeding selection indicators for cashmere goats.

Supplementary Feeding of Grazing Inner Mongolian Cashmere Goats during Pregnancy-Based on "Nutrient Requirements of Cashmere Goats".

This study aimed to conduct precise supplementation for pregnant cashmere goats under grazing based on the feeding standard. Eight Inner Mongolian pregnant cashmere goats of near-average body weight were selected at early gestation (44.41 ± 4.03 kg) and late gestation (46.54 ± 4.02 kg) to measure their nutrient intake. Then, two pregnant cashmere goat flocks, No. 10 (control group, on-farm supplement) and No. 11 (supplemented group, supplement based on standard), with the same goat herd structure and grassland type, were chosen to conduct the supplemental feeding experiment. The results showed that pregnant cashmere goats lacked daily the intake of dry matter, digestive energy, crude protein and most essential mineral elements under grazing. After supplemental feeding, the supplementation based on the feeding standard increased the cashmere length and cashmere length growth volume and decreased the cashmere fineness, with no statistical significance. The goat cashmere yield, goat weight after shearing, single and twin-birth kid weight and kids' mature secondary hair follicle density were significantly higher in the supplemented group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, supplementation in accordance with "Nutrient Requirements of Cashmere Goats" can enhance pregnant cashmere goats' fiber production, growth performance, fertility and kids' secondary hair follicles development, which is of great importance for the healthy and precise nutrition and management of cashmere goats.

Identification of biomarkers and outcomes of endocrine disruption in human ovarian cortex using In Vitro Models

Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are raising concerns about adverse effects on fertility in women. However, there is a lack of information regarding mechanisms and effects in humans. Our study aims to identify mechanisms of endocrine disruption using two EDCs, diethylstilbestrol (DES) and ketoconazole (KTZ)11Ketoconazole: KTZ.. Human ovarian cortical tissue obtained from Caesarean section patients was exposed to 10−9 M - 10−5 M KTZ and 10−10 M - 10−6 M DES in vitro for 6 days. Follicle survival and growth were studied via histology analysis and liquid-chromatography-mass spectrometry-based steroid quantification. RNA-sequencing was performed on COV434, KGN, and primary ovarian cells that were exposed for 24 h. Significantly lower unilaminar follicle densities were observed in DES 10−10 M group, whereas low KTZ exposure reduced secondary follicle density. KTZ 10−5 M reduced levels of pregnenolone and progesterone. RNA-sequencing revealed that 445 and 233 differentially expressed genes (false discovery rate < 0.1) altogether in DES and KTZ exposed groups. Gene set variation analysis showed that both chemicals modulated pathways that are important for folliculogenesis and steroidogenesis. We selected stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD) and 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase (DHCR7) for further validation. Up-regulation of both genes in response to KTZ was confirmed by qPCR and in situ RNA hybridization. Further validation with immunofluorescence focused on the expression of SCD in growing follicles in exposed ovarian tissue. In conclusion, SCD may serve as a potential novel human-relevant biomarker of EDC exposure and effects on ovaries.

Nonlinear model fitting analysis of feather growth and development curves in the embryonic stages of Jilin white geese (Anser cygnoides).

Poultry is subject to varying degrees of feather loss and feather pecking during production, which seriously affects the live appearance and carcass appearance of their commercial traits and greatly reduces the production profitability of the farming enterprise. It also has an impact on down production and quality in the case of geese. In this study, mathematical models (Logistic, Gompertz, and Von Bertalanffy) were used to assess feather growth and development during the embryonic period in Jilin white geese (Anser cygnoides) predicting the weight and length of feathers from the back, chest, and belly tracts at different embryonic ages, to determine which growth model more accurately described feather growth patterns. The result first showed that the primary feather follicles of the Jilin white goose developed at E14 and secondary feather follicles at E18; primary feather follicle density increased and then decreased, whereas secondary feather follicle density increased continuously and the primary and secondary feather follicles developed independently. Secondly, the embryonic feather growth followed a slow-fast-slow pattern, with feathers growing slowly from E12 to E18, quickly from E18 to E24, and then decreasing after E24 until just before emergence (E30). In addition, before E14, feathers were concentrated in the back tracts, and no feathers were found on the head, neck, chest, abdomen, or wings. By E22, the whole body of the embryo was covered with feathers, and the back feathers were the earliest and fastest to develop. Compared to the Gompertz and von Bertalanffy models, the logistic model fit (R2 = 0.997) was the highest, while the sum of residual squares (RSS = 25661.67), Akaike's information criterion (AIC = 77.600), Bayesian information criterion (BIC = 78.191), and mean square error (MSE = 2851.296) were the lowest. Therefore, the logistic model was more suitable for describing the changes in whole-body feather growth during the embryonic period in Jilin white geese. In conclusion, using the growth curve model to explain the relationship between feather growth and embryonic age in geese will potentially speed up the process of genetic improvement in Jilin white geese (A. cygnoides) and thus provide scientific support for molecular genetic breeding.

Comprehensive Transcriptome Analysis of Hair Follicle Morphogenesis Reveals That lncRNA-H19 Promotes Dermal Papilla Cell Proliferation through the Chi-miR-214-3p/β-Catenin Axis in Cashmere Goats.

Cashmere is initiated and develops in the fetal stages and the number and density of secondary hair follicles (SHFs) determine cashmere production and quality. Growing evidence indicates that both microRNA (miRNA) and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) play an indispensable role in hair follicle (HF) growth and development. However, little is known about miRNAs, lncRNAs, and their functions as well as their interactions during cashmere initiation and development. Here, based on lncRNA and miRNA high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics analysis, we identified 10,485 lncRNAs, 40,639 mRNAs, and 605 miRNAs in cashmere goat skin during HF induction, organogenesis, and cytodifferentiation stages. Among them, 521 lncRNAs, 5976 genes, and 204 miRNAs were differentially expressed (DE). KEGG analysis of DE genes indicated that ECM–receptor interaction and biosynthesis of amino acids were crucial for HF development. Notch, TGF-beta, and Wnt signaling pathways were also identified, which are conventional pathways associated with HF growth and development. Then, the ceRNA regulatory network was constructed, and the impact of lncRNA H19 was investigated in dermal papilla (DP) cells. The MTT, CCK-8, and EdU assays showed that the viability and proliferation of DP cells were promoted by H19, and mechanistic studies suggested that H19 performed its function through the chi-miR-214-3p/β-catenin axis. The present study created a resource for lncRNA, miRNA, and mRNA studies in cashmere morphogenesis. It could contribute to a better understanding of the molecular mechanism of ncRNAs involved in the regulation of HF growth and development.

Cashmere production, skin characteristics, and mutated genes in crimped cashmere fibre goats

A subpopulation of Yanshan cashmere goats with crimped fibre has emerged in a closed population in recent years, but little is known about differences in cashmere production performance, skin characteristics, and fibre-style-related genes between goats with different cashmere fibre styles. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate fibre characteristics, cashmere yield, hair follicle traits, and fibre-style-related genes in cashmere goats with the two cashmere fleece styles—non-crimped and crimped. Based on the cashmere fibre type, 80 six-month-old female Yanshan cashmere goats were used in this study: 40 goats with non-crimped fleece (NCF) and 40 with crimped fleece (CF). The growth performance and cashmere production of the goats were recorded. Skin samples were collected to determine hair follicle traits and gene sequencing. The results indicated that there were no differences in initial live weight, final live weight, average daily feed intake, and average daily gain between the two groups of goats (P > 0.05). The total yield of cashmere and the stretched length of fibre of the CF goats were higher (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively) and fibre diameter was lower (P < 0.05) than that of the NCF goats. There were no between-group differences in the density and activity of primary and secondary hair follicles, secondary-to-primary fibre ratio, depth of primary follicles, or epidermal thickness. However, the depth of secondary follicles and dermal thickness were higher (P < 0.05) in NCF goats than in CF goats. There were mutations in the KRT5, KAP8, KRT8, KRT74, KRT34, KRT1, KRT71, KRT6A, KAP6, KRT81, and KRT83 genes, four of which caused amino acid changes. The allele and genotype frequencies of base mutations in the KRT5, KAP8, KRT34, KRT1, KRT6A, KRT81, and KRT83 genes were different in the NCF and CF goats (P < 0.05). The distribution and content of the secondary structure elements and tertiary structures of proteins differed between the wide-type and mutated KRT1 and KRT6A proteins. KRT1, KRT6A, KRT71, and TGFα mRNA expression levels were significantly higher in CF goats than in NCF goats (P < 0.05). It is concluded that cashmere goats that have fleece with crimped fibres produce a greater yield of fleece with finer diameter fibres than those with conventional straight cashmere fibres. These differences in fibre properties may be associated with mutations in the genes coding for KRT1 and KRT6A.

Pyridoxine regulates hair follicle development via the PI3K/Akt, Wnt and Notch signalling pathways in rex rabbits.

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of pyridoxine on the development of hair follicles in Rex rabbits and the underlying molecular mechanism. Two hundred 3-month-old Rex rabbits were randomly divided into 5 groups and fed diets supplemented with 0, 5, 10, 20, or 40 mg/kg pyridoxine. The hair follicle density on the dorsal skin and the gene and protein expression levels of components of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (PKB or Akt), Wnt, Notch and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signalling pathways were measured. In addition, free hair follicles were isolated from Rex rabbits and cultured with pyridoxine in vitro to measure hair shaft growth. Furthermore, dermal papilla cells (DPC) were isolated from the skin of Rex rabbits and cultured with pyridoxine in vitro to measure the gene and protein expression levels of components of the PI3K/Akt, Wnt, Notch and BMP signalling pathways. The results showed that the addition of dietary pyridoxine significantly increased the total follicle density, secondary follicle density, and secondary-to-primary ratio (S/P, P < 0.05), that the growth ratio of hair stems was promoted by pyridoxine in basic culture medium, and that the growth length of tentacle hair follicles cultured in the pyridoxine group was longer than that in the control group (P < 0.05). In addition, pyridoxine changed the DPC cycle progression and promoted cell proliferation, and appropriate concentrations of pyridoxine (10 and 20 μmol/L) significantly inhibited cell apoptosis (P < 0.05). Pyridoxine significantly affected the gene expression of components of the PI3K/Akt, Wnt and Notch signalling pathways in the skin and DPC of Rex rabbits (P < 0.05), increased the levels of phosphorylated catenin beta 1 (CTNNB1) and Akt, and decreased the level of phosphorylated glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK-3β) (P < 0.05). Therefore, the molecular mechanism by which pyridoxine promotes hair follicle density in Rex rabbits probably occurs through activation of the PI3K/Akt, Wnt and Notch signalling pathways, prolonging hair follicle growth and delaying the onset of telogen.

Effect of body site on hair follicle density in Inner Mongolia cashmere goat (Capra hircus)

Abstract In this study, hair follicle density (HFD) was compared among different body sites in Inner Mongolia cashmere goat (Capra hirus). Skin samples from 14 different body sites of 11 Inner Mongolia cashmere goats were collected. A total of 154 skin samples were processed for paraffin embedment, sectioning and H&E staining. Images of 9.26 mm2 were captured by a microscope camera, and primary hair follicle density (PHFD), secondary hair follicle density (SHFD), the ratio of second to primary hair follicle density (S/P) and total hair follicle density (THFD) were calculated. The results showed that there was no significant difference in HFD between females and males. The 14 body sites were clustered into three categories according to the HFD. The THFD of high-density, medium-density and low-density groups was 50.0 ± 8.5, 41.6 ± 7.1 and 26.6 ± 6.2 follicles/mm2 of stained skin section, respectively, and the significant differences (P

Development and growth of mohair fleeces from birth and relationships between skin follicle populations, mohair physical properties, animal size and fleece value

Abstract Knowledge of associations between skin follicle development in Angora goats and development of mohair fleeces is limited. These associations were investigated using data from a controlled nutrition experiment which had 3 levels of mid pregnancy nutrition (MPN) × 2 levels of postnatal nutrition during lactation (PNN), with single and twin litters. Skin biopsies were taken (birth, 114, 180, 420 days of age). Mid-side fibre growth and physical properties were determined 6 times between birth and 180 days of age. Birth coats were visually scored (1, straight; 5 curly). Fibre diameter distribution histograms were analysed at these ages. Skin area was measured. Total number of follicles and fibre growth per day determined. Fleeces were harvested at 7, 13 and 19 months of age and tested. Average fleece-free live weight (AvFFLwt) during fleece growing periods was determined. Data were analysed for treatment effects, correlations between attributes and multiple linear regression analysis performed to determine relationships between mean fibre diameter (MFD) at different ages with variables. AvFFLwt over the study within shearing intervals ranged from 5.8 to 37.6 kg. Density of secondary follicles (Ds) at 180 days of ranged from 10.8 to 34.0 mm−2, ratio of secondary to primary skin follicles (S/P) at 420 ranged from 4.8 to 14.1. Total fibre growth/day was related to the surface area (size) of kids, as surface area increased proportionally with live weight0.73. Smaller kids (female, twin reared) grew respectively 15–23% less fibre than larger male and 13–16% less than single reared goats. MFD was 27.8 μm at birth, then declined before increasing after 2 months of age. PNN had small effects on fibre diameter CV which was high at birth before declining rapidly during the first three months of life. There were negative correlations between both Ds and S/P ratio with: MFD; and the incidence of medullated fibres (patch fibre growth and fleeces at 13 and 19 months). The magnitude of these correlations increased with age. Birth coat score was negatively associated with fleece value. Predictions of MFD at shearing were related to log10AvFFLwt during the growth period, either Ds or S/P ratio, sex of kid, and a covariate term for the dam MFD. Greater Ds and S/P ratios greater than 9 were associated with finer mohair and more valuable fleeces.

The functions of ocu-miR-205 in regulating hair follicle development in Rex rabbits

BackgroundHair follicles are an appendage of the vertebrate epithelium in the skin that arise from the embryonic ectoderm and regenerate cyclically during adulthood. Dermal papilla cells (DPCs) are the key dermal component of the hair follicle that directly regulate hair follicle development, growth and regeneration. According to recent studies, miRNAs play an important role in regulating hair follicle morphogenesis and the proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis of hair follicle stem cells.ResultsThe miRNA expression profile of the DPCs from Rex rabbits with different hair densities revealed 240 differentially expressed miRNAs (|log2(HD/LD)| > 1.00 and Q-value≤0.001). Among them, ocu-miR-205-5p was expressed at higher levels in DPCs from rabbits with low hair densities (LD) than in rabbits with high hair densities (HD), and it was expressed at high levels in the skin tissue from Rex rabbits (P < 0.05). Notably, ocu-miR-205 increased cell proliferation and the cell apoptosis rate, altered the progression of the cell cycle (P < 0.05), and modulated the expression of genes involved in the PI3K/Akt, Wnt, Notch and BMP signalling pathways in DPCs and skin tissue from Rex rabbits. It also inhibited the phosphorylation of the CTNNB1 and GSK-3β proteins, decreased the level of the noggin (NOG) protein, and increased the level of phosphorylated Akt (P < 0.05). A significant change in the primary follicle density was not observed (P > 0.05), but the secondary follicle density and total follicle density (P < 0.05) were altered upon interference with ocu-miR-205-5p expression, and the secondary/primary ratio (S/P) in the ocu-miR-205-5p interfered expression group increased 14 days after the injection (P < 0.05).ConclusionsIn the present study, ocu-miR-205 promoted the apoptosis of DPCs, altered the expression of genes and proteins involved in the PI3K/Akt, Wnt, Notch and BMP signalling pathways in DPCs and skin from Rex rabbits, promoted the transition of hair follicles from the growth phase to the regression and resting phase, and altered the hair density of Rex rabbits.

The effects of mid pregnancy and postnatal nutrition, birth parity and sex on Angora goat live weight gain, skin follicle development, mohair physical properties and fleece value

There is little information on permanent effects of nutritional manipulation of Angora does on the development of skin follicles of their progeny in utero and during the early postnatal period. This report investigates the combined effects of 3 levels of mid pregnancy nutrition (MPN) × 2 levels of postnatal nutrition during lactation (PNN) on skin follicle development and the subsequent physical properties and value of mohair until 19 months of age. Does were housed in individual pens in an outdoor feedlot from day 47 of pregnancy until 13 weeks postpartum. Kids grazed pasture following weaning at 16 weeks. MPN treatments commenced from day 47 as follows: Control (C), does fed to lose live weight (−67 g/d); Maintenance (M), does fed to maintain live weight; Supplemented (S), does fed to gain live weight at 102 g/d. From days 105 of pregnancy until 4 days postpartum the feeding level was ad libitum for all treatments. From 4 days postpartum PNN treatments were: ad libitum (AL) to allow maximum ME intake resulting in doe live weight gain throughout lactation; Restricted (R) to 70% of AL, resulting in doe live weight loss until week 10 of lactation. Kid skin biopsy samples were taken at birth, 114, 180 and 420 days of age. Fleeces were harvested at 7, 13 and 19 months of age and tested for physical properties. Commercial value of mohair was determined using known price discount responses and measured mean fibre diameter (MFD). Improving MPN increased kid live weight up to 6 months of age. Improving PNN increased kid live weight between 1–6 months of age. The ratio of secondary to primary skin follicles increased from 2.56 ± 0.83 at birth to 9.32 ± 1.41 at 4 months of age. The density of secondary follicles, total secondary follicle number and ratio of secondary to primary follicles were affected by significant interactions between MPN and PNN, with treatments S-AL, C-AL and M-R being higher than other treatments. Improving PNN increased total greasy and clean mohair production by 5%. Average MFD was affected by interactions between MPN and PNN, with treatment S-AL having mohair 1.8 μm finer than S-R and C-AL. Improving both MPN and PNN reduced lifetime MFD. Staple length was affected by interactions between MPN and PNN, treatments with the finest mohair having shorter staples. The first fleece weight was affected by birth parity and sex of progeny, but not subsequent fleeces. The MFD of the second and third fleeces for female kids were 0.9–2.2 μm coarser compared with male kid fleeces. Interactions between MPN and PNN affected lifetime fleece value with S-AL producing 20% higher value fleeces compared with other treatments. There are preferred nutritional combinations for breeding Angora does which permanently increase the skin follicle population and consequently improve the lifetime physical properties and value of the mohair grown by their progeny.

The densities of fiber follicles in the Karakaç, Norduz, and Zom sheep and a comparative analysis

This study aimed to determine the densities of fiber follicles in the skin of the Karaka§, Norduz, and Zom sheep breeds and to carry out a comparative analysis between them. The study included a total of 36 animals aged 1-2 years and 3-4 years. Skin samples were obtained through biopsies taken from the right sides of the animals to determine the densities and ratios of the fleece follicles. Examination of these samples revealed that the primary follicle densities of the three sheep breeds (Karaka§, Norduz and Zom) were 3.11 ± 0.42, 3.14 ± 0.49 and 3.34 ± 0.59, while the secondary follicle densities were 8.42 ± 1.48, 8.51 ± 1.54 and 6.36 ± 1.44. The secondary to primary (S/P) follicle ratios of the sheep were 2.71 ± 0.70, 2.79 ± 0.69 and 1.85 ± 0.36, respectively. The primary follicle densities of the Karaka§, Norduz and Zom sheep were statistically similar for both age groups. The density of secondary follicles and S/P ratio decreased with age in both age groups. The similarity of the S/P ratios to those from other local sheep breeds suggest that Karaka§, Norduz, Zom sheep can be included in the sheep group that has coarse fleece.

HOXC13 and HSP27 Expression in Skin and the Periodic Growth of Secondary Fiber Follicles from Longdong Cashmere Goats Raised in Different Production Systems.

This experiment was conducted to identify periodic changes in secondary follicles (SFs) over one year of extensive (grazed) and intensive (housed and fed supplement) farming of Longdong cashmere goats. One-year old goats (n=24, 12 extensively fed and 12 intensively fed) were studied. The diameter, depth, density, activity, and ultra-structural features of SFs were assessed using light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. HOXC13 and HSP27 expression were studied using immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence method. The anagen stage in the extensively grazed goats was from April to September, but was longer (April to October) in the housed, supplementary fed group. The depth and activity of the SF in anagen and catagen differed (P<0.05) between the groups. HSP27 and HOXC13 protein were present in both the epidermis and dermis, with HSP27 immunoreactivity highest in the hair shaft (HS), outer root sheath (ORS) and inner root sheath (IRS). HOXC13 expression was prominent in both the eprdermis and ORS. HSP27 and HOXC13 expression were prominent during anagen, and less so during catagen and telogen. In anagen, HSP27 expression in the HS, IRS, and ORS of the extensively fed group was higher than in the intensively fed group (p<0.05). In contrast, HOXC13 expression in HS, IRS and ORS of the extensively fed group was lower than in the intensively fed group (P<0.05). This suggests the growth of cashmere is influenced by nutrition and that housed goats could be used in cashmere production. Anat Rec, 301:742-752, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Evaluation of follicular growth and tissue viability in vitrified/warmed domestic dog ovaries after in vitro culture.

Cryopreservation of gametes is an important tool to preserve fertility, but for most species, including domestic dogs, data regarding ovarian tissue cryopreservation are limited. We aimed to evaluate the follicular and tissue viability and follicular growth after in vitro culture of domestic dog ovarian cortical slices cryopreserved by vitrification. Ovarian cortex was obtained from ten pairs of ovaries from domestic dogs using two methods (A and B), one for each ovary from the same bitch. At least four slices for each method were obtained from each ovary, one was processed for histology and the other three were vitrified. When the vitrified slices were warmed, one slice from each method was processed for histology and the remaining two slices were cultured in vitro for 7days, after which they were processed for histological evaluation. Density of follicles in fresh samples was similar for both methods. For Method A, density of secondary follicles decreased, while the density of primordial follicles was maintained throughout the process. For Method B, density of primary follicles decreased after 7days of incubation, but density of secondary follicles increased, confirming follicular growth in Method B. Overall, there were no differences between Methods A and B in follicular integrity after incubation. Fresh samples showed better arterial, venous and follicle preservation, followed by vitrified-warmed samples, but no differences were observed between methods. In conclusion, the methodology used to isolate the ovarian cortex may affect tissue and follicle viability as well as follicular development during in vitro culture.

Determination of Secondary Follicle Characteristics, Density, Activity, and Hoxc13 Expression Pattern of Hexi Cashmere Goats Breed.

This experiment was conducted to identify some aspects of secondary follicle (SF) characteristics of Hexi cashmere goats at five different growing stages in one year in order and discover the expression pattern of Hoxc13 in a SF cycling to provide morphological basis for studying the growth of cashmere. Ten cashmere goats of one-year old (5 males, 5 females) were included in this study. The density and activity of SF were observed and measured by making paraffin sections, the ultra-structural features of SF were studied under transmission electron microscopy (TEM) by making ultra-thin sections, and the expression of Hoxc13 was investigated through the immunohistochemistry method. The average diameter of SF had the smallest value in the anagen stage, and significant difference (P < 0.05) was found between the anagen stage and other stages. The density of SF increased gradually through the different growing stages, and significant difference was found between the anagen and procatagen stages (P < 0.05). With an increase in time (months), the percentage of SF activity increased, and significant difference in the percentage of SF activity was found between the telogen and anagen stages (P < 0.05). At the telogen stage, the layers of connective tissue sheath (CTS) of SF were unclear, hemidesmosomes between the outer root sheath (ORS) and basement membrane disappeared, and dead cells were found at the top of the SF. The rudiments of new SF were found in the proanagen stage, CTS was thickened, and the cells of ORS were stretched out like fingers. At the anagen stage, the structure of SF was integral, and the inner root sheath (IRS) consisted of three concentric layers (Helen, Huxley, and Cuticle layers). The cells of Huxley's layer degenerated gradually, and pseudopodia were formed on the cells of ORS in the procatagen stage. At the catagen stage, the ORS was separated from the IRS, and IRS disappeared. Huxley's layer was absent in the inactive SF while, the ORS was present in the active SF. Hoxc 13 was expressed in the epidermis and sebaceous gland o, ORS, IRS, hair shaft of SF in the skin. Hoxc13 was expressed weakly during procatagen, catagen, and telogen stage, while with an increase in proanagen and anagen stage, significant difference was found between them. These findings demonstrated the ultra-structural features of SF could provide the useful activity criteria, and Hoxc13 associated with the SF activity.

Growth and viability of Liaoning Cashmere goat hair follicles during the annual hair follicle cycle

Here, we studied hair follicle development of Liaoning Cashmere goats. Every month for 1 year, skin samples were collected from five 1.5-year-old female goats, and made into paraffin sections. A number of parameters were measured of primary and secondary hair follicles via microscopic observation including follicle depth, hair bulb width, dermis and epidermis thickness, changes in follicle activity, and histology. The results showed the presence of three phases in the annual hair cycle: anagen, catagen, and telogen. Primary and secondary hair follicle depth varied across the months; however, no significant difference was obtained between adjacent months (P>0.05). Primary hair follicles had a bigger hair bulb width compared to secondary hair follicles; however, this difference declined during hair follicle developed in anagen. As hair follicle growth slowed, the hair bulb broadened, and hair root depth became shallower. During the entire hair cycle, hair follicle depth and dermis thickness were positively correlated; however, this relationship was not significant (P>0.05) for primary and secondary hair follicle density and the ratio of secondary hair follicle density and primary hair follicle density (S/P ratio). In addition, new and old primary hair follicles coexisted with secondary hair follicles. Finally, secondary hair follicles had a higher activity rate compared to primary hair follicle in adult Liaoning Cashmere goats in certain months.

Relationships between skin follicle characteristics and fibre properties of Suri and Huacaya alpacas and Peppin Merino sheep

We aimed to quantify the number, type and arrangement of skin follicles in Huacaya and Suri alpaca skin and correlate their follicle characteristics with fibre traits of harvested fibre and compared these relationships with those of Merino sheep. Fibre and skin samples were collected from the mid-side of 12 Huacaya alpacas, 24 Suri alpacas and 10 Merino sheep. The mean fibre diameter (MFD ± s.e.) of the Huacaya and Suri were: 35.5 ± 0.9 and 28.3 ± 1.0 μm, respectively. The follicle groups found for alpacas were very different from the normal trio of primary follicles found in sheep and goats. The follicle group of the alpacas consisted of a single primary follicle surrounded by a variable number of secondary follicles. The mean ± s.e. primary follicle density was 3.1 ± 0.3 and 2.7 ± 0.1 follicles/mm2 for Huacaya and Suri, respectively. The mean ± s.e. secondary follicle density (SFD) was 13.7 ± 1.2 and 17.5 ± 0.6 follicles/mm2 for Huacaya and Suri, respectively. The mean ± s.e. ratio of secondary to primary follicles (S/P ratio) was 5.1 ± 0.5 for the Huacaya and 7.3 ± 0.2 for the Suri alpacas. The sheep had higher S/P ratios and SFD, lower MFD and produced significantly heavier fleeces. The key correlations found between traits in alpacas include a negative correlation between SFD and MFD (r = –0.71, P = 0.001) and a negative correlation between S/P ratio and MFD (r = –0.44, P = 0.003) and a positive correlation between S/P ratio and total follicle density (r = 0.38, P = 0.010). The study revealed that important relationships exist between alpaca skin follicle characteristics and fibre characteristics. It was the number of secondary follicles in a group that imparts density and a corresponding reduced MFD.