Understanding Circular RNAs in Health, Welfare, and Productive Traits of Cattle, Goats, and Sheep

Abstract

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are unique noncoding RNA molecules, notable for their covalent closed-loop structures, which play a crucial role in regulating gene expression across a variety of biological processes. This review comprehensively synthesizes the existing knowledge of circRNAs in three key livestock species: Bos taurus (cattle), Ovis aries (sheep), and Capra hircus (goats). It focuses on their functional importance and emerging potential as biomarkers for disease detection, stress response, and overall physiological health. Specifically, it delves into the expression and functionality of circRNAs in these species, paying special attention to traits critical to livestock productivity such as milk production, meat quality, muscle development, wool production, immune responses, etc. We also address the current challenges faced in circRNA research, including the need for standardized methodologies and broader studies. By providing insights into the molecular mechanisms regulated by circRNAs, this review underscores their scientific and economic relevance in the livestock industry. The potential of circRNAs to improve animal health management and the quality of animal-derived products aligns with growing consumer concerns for animal welfare and sustainability. Thus, this paper aims to guide future research directions while supporting the development of innovative strategies in livestock management and breeding.

Exploring the Role of Circular RNA in Bone Biology: A Comprehensive Review

“…Their abundance and conservation across species underscore their functional significance [ 5 ]. In particular, the functional roles of circRNAs have been reported in cattle, goats, and sheep, with a specific focus on their influence on milk yield, meat quality, and muscle growth, as well on wool production [ 5 ]…”

“…Consequently, circRNAs can function as robust regulators of gene expression, exerting their effects over extended periods without being rapidly degraded [4]. Their abundance and conservation across species underscore their functional significance [5]. In particular, the functional roles of 2 of 14 circRNAs have been reported in cattle, goats, and sheep, with a specific focus on their influence on milk yield, meat quality, and muscle growth, as well on wool production [5] In bone tissue, circRNAs have been implicated in diverse cellular processes, including osteogenic differentiation, osteoclastogenesis, and bone remodeling [6].…”

“…Their abundance and conservation across species underscore their functional significance [5]. In particular, the functional roles of 2 of 14 circRNAs have been reported in cattle, goats, and sheep, with a specific focus on their influence on milk yield, meat quality, and muscle growth, as well on wool production [5] In bone tissue, circRNAs have been implicated in diverse cellular processes, including osteogenic differentiation, osteoclastogenesis, and bone remodeling [6]. Through various molecular mechanisms, such as microRNA sponging, interaction with RNA-binding proteins, and the modulation of gene transcription, circRNAs exert intricate regulatory control over key signaling pathways involved in bone homeostasis [6].…”