Long non-coding RNAs in cattle: implications for key meat and dairy production traits

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are noncoding transcripts longer than 200 nucleotides that play crucial roles in regulating gene expression and various physiological processes. In cattle, a species of major agricultural importance, lncRNAs hold significant potential for improving key economic traits such as meat and milk production. Unlike previous reviews that often focus on a single trait or species, this article provides a systematic comparison of lncRNA applications in two distinct production systems: meat traits in beef cattle and milk production traits in dairy cattle. By synthesizing recent advances, we aim to maximize the understanding of lncRNAs' roles in cattle breeding, and to establish a foundational theoretical framework that can guide future research and practical breeding efforts.