Characterization and expression analysis of SLC7A11 in llamas

Abstract

Animal fibres from South American camelids and other fibre or wool bearing species provide important products for use by the human population. The contemporary context includes the competition with petrocarbon-based artificial fibres andconcern about excessive persistence of these in the natural environment. Animalfibres present highly valuable characteristics for sustainable production and processing as they are both natural and renewable. On the other hand, their use isrecognised to depend on availability of appropriate quality and quantity, the production of which is underpinned by a range of sciences and processes which support development to meet market requirements.