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Wool fibre research branches out
20 Jul 2004
New research into the molecular events underlying wool development could improve production and profits, says CSIRO Livestock Industries. Scientist Dr Graham Cam is investigating whether the genetic basis of "secondary" wool follicle development, and a phenomenon known as "branching", can ultimately be used to produce more fine-grade wool.
Dr Cam says the most valuable part of a fleece is formed by wool fibres originating from secondary follicles. They produce softer, finer fibres prized by wool growers and fashion houses. Some of these secondary follicles develop a series of side branches, which also produce fine fibres.
CSIRO wants to identify the genes and molecular mechanisms that allow some secondary follicles and not others to produce these branches. If the molecular events that enable some secondary follicles to branch are understood, intervention can occur in the process and fibre production can be significantly increased.
The project is being funded under the joint Australian Wool Innovation/Meat and Livestock Australia Sheep Genomics Program.
CSIRO Media Release, 19/7/04.
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