Identification and characterization of long non-coding RNAs in mammary gland tissues of Chinese Holstein cows.

This article focuses on the identification and characterization of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the mammary gland tissues of Chinese Holstein cows at two physiological stages: 7 days before calving (non-lactation) and 30 days postpartum (early lactation). Using RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq), 1,905 novel lncRNAs were detected, with 96 showing significant differential expression between the two stages. Functional analyses of the target genes of these lncRNAs revealed enrichment in pathways related to mammary gland development and immune response, including ECM-receptor interaction, Jak-STAT, PI3K-Akt, and TGF-beta signaling pathways. The study highlights specific lncRNAs potentially involved in regulating genes associated with lactation and inflammation, providing a foundational resource for understanding lncRNA roles in bovine lactation biology.