Association between DNA Methylation in the Core Promoter Region of the CUT-like Homeobox 1 (CUX1) Gene and Lambskin Pattern in Hu Sheep

CUT-like homeobox 1 (CUX1) has been proven to be a key regulator in sheep hair follicle development. In our previous study, CUX1 was identified as differential expressed gene between Hu lambskin with small wave patterns (SM) and straight wool (ST); however, the exact molecular mechanism of expression obscure. As DNA methylation can regulate expression, potential association core promotor region pattern explored present study. The results show that promoter at (−1601–(−1) bp) upstream transcription start site. A repressive (−1151–(−751) also detected, which had strong inhibitory effect on activity. Bisulfite amplicon sequencing revealed no significant difference detected levels SM tissues ST tissues. Although data demonstrated probably methylation, identification enrich role