Molecular Regulatory Mechanisms of Development and Reproduction in Farm Ruminants

Dear Colleagues,

Efficient development and reproductive performance are central determinants of productivity, sustainability, and animal welfare in ruminants. Rapid advances in molecular biology, genomics, epigenetics, and systems biology have revealed complex regulatory networks that govern gametogenesis, early embryonic development, placentation, fetal growth, puberty, and reproductive cyclicity. This Special Issue aims to integrate current knowledge on the molecular regulatory mechanisms underlying development and reproduction in ruminant species, with a particular focus on cattle, sheep, and goats.

Key thematic areas include endocrine and paracrine signaling pathways, transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation, epigenetic programming (DNA methylation, histone modifications, non-coding RNAs), and the role of metabolic and nutritional cues in shaping reproductive competence. Special attention is given to molecular interactions at the maternal–embryonic and maternal–fetal interface, mechanisms controlling placental efficiency, and the impact of environmental stressors—such as heat stress, disease, and management practices—on reproductive outcomes. Emerging technologies, including multi-omics integration, single-cell approaches, and functional genome editing, are highlighted as powerful tools to dissect these processes.

Despite significant progress, major research gaps remain. These include a limited functional validation of candidate genes and regulatory networks, insufficient understanding of species-specific versus conserved mechanisms, and incomplete knowledge of how early-life molecular programming affects long-term fertility, health, and productivity. Furthermore, the translation of molecular findings into reliable biomarkers and practical breeding or management strategies remains a critical challenge.

By addressing these gaps, this Special Issue seeks to stimulate interdisciplinary research that bridges basic molecular insights with applied reproductive biology, ultimately supporting more resilient, efficient, and sustainable ruminant production systems.

Dr. Alicja Kowalczyk
Guest Editor

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