Identification of ALOX12B Gene Expression, Evolution, and Potential Functional Sites in Horn Development of Sheep

The growth and development of horns are primarily controlled by the skin. The <i>ALOX12B</i> gene is crucial for epidermal barrier function and may have a significant impact on horn growth. The purpose of this study was to investigate the expression of <i>ALOX12B</i> across different sheep breeds and tissues by utilizing RNA sequencing. Additionally, potential functional sites were identified in conjunction with whole genome sequencing. Our findings revealed that <i>ALOX12B</i> was highly expressed in the scurred horn group as opposed to the normal horn group (SHE). <i>ALOX12B</i> expression was also notably high in the skin across several species. Eight loci that may influence horn size were indicated in this study. Through the alignment of the ALOX12B protein sequence from 16 species, 15 amino acid sites were identified specifically expressed in horned animals. In conclusion, this study established a connection between <i>ALOX12B</i> and horn size and identified a series of functional sites that may serve as molecular markers for reducing the presence of horns in Chinese sheep breeds.