Expression of the RORα gene in Inner Mongolian cashmere goat hair follicles

The expression of retinoid-acid-related orphan receptor α (RORα) was evaluated at the mRNA level using real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and its expression localization was determined by in situ hybridization of adult Inner Mongolian cashmere goats at different times of the year. In situ hybridization demonstrated that RORαwas expressed in secondary hair follicles of the hair shaft, inner root sheath, outer root sheath, medulla, and other parts that are target organs of the RORαreceptor gene. qRT-PCR results showed that there was no significant difference in the RORa mRNA abundance in February, April, August, and October (P > 0.05), and the only difference occurred in December relative to February, August, and October (P < 0.05). This difference revealed that melatonin possibly promotes cashmere growth through the nuclear receptor RORα. This study provides a good foundation for future studies on the relationship between the melatonin receptor and cashmere growth; in addition, it provides new insights for increased cashmere production and quality.