Deciphering the transcription regulation of bovine papillomavirus (BPV)-associated equine sarcoids through OMIC integrated approach

Sarcoids are the most common cutaneous tumors in horses, representing up to 90% (35-90%) of skin neoplasms. Mostly caused by Bovine Papillomavirus (BPVs) infections, sarcoids are highly resistant to therapy and prone to recurring, posing a significant threat to equine health. The aim of this study is to explore molecular pathogenetic mechanisms underlying the development of BPVs-associated sarcoids, by applying transcriptomic approach. After testing samples for viral DNA, both mRNA and small RNA expression was analyzed via high-throughput Illumina sequencing comparing 12 sarcoids and 12 healthy skin samples as controls.