Pregnancy-specific protein B and progesterone in monitoring viability of the embryo in early pregnancy in the cow after experimental infection with Actinomyces pyogenes

Actinomyces pyogenes can cause embryonic death and abortion during the early stages of pregnancy in cows. Bovine pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) is produced in response to a viable embryo and as such it could be a potential marker for embryronic survival. The plasma concentration of PSPB was monitored in cows following an intrauterine infection with A. pyogenes and during the subsequent abortion and recovery from infection. Plasma progesterone concentrations were also monitored, and the results were compared withthose for animals in which abortion had been induced by prostaglandin F2alpha treatment. In abortions induced both by infection and by cloprostenol, the plasma concentration of PSPB fell steadily from the day of treatment, with a half-life of 7 days. In the cloprostenol-induced abortions, progesterone levels fell dramatically to <0.5ng/ml within 24 hours of treatment, while following inoculation with A. pyogenes , progesterone concentration remained elevated for 20 to 40 days and fell to <0.5ng/ml after evacuation of pus from the uterus. Sequential monitoring of PSPB, which identifies embryonic death when a continuing fall in plasma concentration is demonstrated, is a better indicator of embryonic death following bacterial infection with A. pyogenes than plasma progesterone concentration, which falls only when infection is resolved.

Improving the reproductive efficiency by zoo-technical methods at a dairy farm

This trial was conducted on a Hungarian dairy farm between July 2001 and December 2004. The objective of this work was to improve the reproductive efficiency with relatively high milk production. At the beginning of this trial blood and fodder samples were taken for checking the metabolic status of the animals in order to determine their health condition. The nutritive value of the daily ration for all groups met with the requirements of the Hungarian National Standard and almost all serum metabolic parameters differed between the milking and pregnant animals. Early pregnancy detection (by ultrasound) and ovulation synchronizing methods were introduced to optimize reproductive performance. The oestrus cycle was also checked by ultrasound and open cows were treated by the appropriate method in order to inseminate them as soon as possible. Efficiency of artificial insemination (AI) followed by a single prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha) and Ovsynch treatment was similar (30.8% and 29%) and less effective than AI after natural heat detection (37.1%). Provsynch (Pre-synch followed by Ovsynch) was the most effective ovulation synchronization method (conception rate=42.6%; p<0.01). Although milk production increased between 2002 and 2004 by approximately 600 kg per cow, the calving period decreased by 20 days and the number of AIs per pregnancy was also improved (0.8 AI per conception). These findings are really beneficial economically because the decrease in the calving interval returns profit for the dairy farms; one open day costs euro2.5/cow. Economical analysis showed a high profit ratio from the reproductive 'investment' on this farm. Every invested euro yielded approximately euro10.

Effect of mifepristone on pregnancy, pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB), progesterone, estradiol-17beta, prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha) and prostaglandin E (PGE) in ovariectomized 90-day pregnant ewes

The objective of this experiment was to determine the effect of mifepristone, a progesterone receptor antagonist, on pregnancy and secretion of steroids, pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) and prostaglandins at mid-pregnancy in ewes. Ninety-day pregnant ewes were ovariectomized (OVX) and treatments were initiated 72 h post-OVX. Ewes received (1) vehicle, (2) prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha, 8 mg/58 kg/bw, i.m.) 84 h post-OVX, (3) mifepristone (50 mg intrajugular at 72, 84, 96, and 108 h post-OVX), (4) mifepristone (50mg) + PGF2alpha, (5) mifepristone (100 mg intrajugular at 72, 84, 96, and 108 h), and (6) mifepristone (100 mg) + PGF2alpha. Ewes treated with vehicle or PGF2alpha alone did not abort (P > or = 0.05). But, 60, 80, 60, and 100% of ewes treated with mifepristone (50 mg), mifepristone (50 mg) + PGF2alpha, mifepristone (100 mg), and mifepristone (100 mg) + PGF2alpha, respectively, aborted (P < or = 0.05). Profiles of progesterone, estradiol-17beta, prostaglandin E (PGE), or PSPB did not differ (P > or = 0.05) among treatment groups. Profiles of PGF2alpha of treatment groups receiving mifepristone with or without PGF2alpha differed (P < 0.05) from vehicle or PGF2alpha alone-treated ewes. It is concluded that progesterone actions are necessary to suppress uterine/placental secretion of PGF2alpha and that maintenance of critical progesterone: estradiol-17beta and PGE:PGF2alpha ratios are necessary for maintenance of pregnancy.

Effect of the aromatase inhibitor CGS-16949A on pregnancy and secretion of progesterone, estradiol-17beta, prostaglandins E and F2alpha (PGE; PGF2alpha) and pregnancy specific protein B (PSPB) in 90-day ovariectomized pregnant ewes

The aromatase inhibitor CGS-16949A was used to determine whether CGS-16949A altered secretion of progesterone, estradiol-17beta, PGE (PGE1 + PGE2), PGF2alpha and PSPB. Ninety day pregnant ewes were ovariectomized and received vehicle, PGF2alpha, CGS-16949A or PGF2alpha+CGS-16949A. None of the ewes treated with PGF2alpha, CGS-16949A or PGF2alpha+CGS-16949A aborted (P > or = 0.05) during the 108-h experimental period. Treatment with CGS-16949A lowered (P < or = 0.05) progesterone in jugular venous plasma but concentrations of progesterone were not affected (P > or = 0.05) by treatment with PGF2alpha. Concentrations of estradiol-17beta and PSPB in jugular venous plasma and PGE in inferior vena cava plasma were decreased (P < or = 0.05) by treatment with CGS-16949A. Concentrations of PGF2alpha in inferior vena cava plasma were not affected (P > or = 0.05) by treatment with CGS-16949A. Decreases in estradiol-17beta occurred before decreases in PSPB, which was then followed by decreases in PGE (P < or = 0.05). It is concluded that these data support the hypothesis that estradiol-17beta regulates placental secretion of PSPB; PSPB regulates placental secretion of PGE; and PGE regulates placental secretion of progesterone during mid-pregnancy in ewes.

Effects of GnRH treatment on scrotal surface temperatures in bulls

Two experiments were conducted to characterize scrotal surface temperature (SST) in bulls treated with gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH). In Experiment 1, Angus bulls (n = 10, 18 mo, 597 kg) were given GnRH (400 ng/kg) or saline, IV. Bottom SST increased approximately 1.7 degrees C (P < 0.005) over time (0 to 90 min) at an ambient temperature of 5 degrees C. However, there was no significant effect of GnRH treatment and temperature increases were attributed to stress. When the experiment was repeated at an ambient temperature of 25 degrees C, SST was elevated prior to treatment, with no subsequent significant increase. Experiment 2 was conducted with Charolais bulls (n = 6, 12-14 mo, 517 kg) with an emphasis on minimizing stress. Bottom SST increased approximately 2 degrees C (P < 0.05) between 0 and 45 min after GnRH treatment, supporting the hypothesis that GnRH treatment increases SST in bulls. In conclusion, it was apparent that stress, high ambient temperatures, and GnRH treatment can all increase SST in bulls.

Effect of PGF2alpha, indomethacin, tamoxifen, or estradiol-17beta on incidence of abortion, progesterone, and pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) secretion in 88- to 90-day pregnant sheep

One objective of this experiment was to evaluate our hypotheses that estradiol-17beta regulates secretion of pregnancy specific protein B (PSPB) and that secretion of progesterone during pregnancy is regulated by a prostanoid by examining the effects of prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha), a luteolyic agent; indomethacin, a prostanoid synthesis inhibitor; tamoxifen, an estrogen receptor antagonist; estradiol 17-beta; and interaction of these factors on the incidence of abortion and progesterone and PSPB secretion. Another objective was to determine if there is a luteal source of PSPB. Weights of corpora lutea were decreased (P < or = 0.05) by PGF2alpha, indomethacin, PGF2alpha + tamoxifen, PGF2alpha + indomethacin, and PGF2alpha + estradiol-17beta but not (P > or = 0.05) by tamoxifen or estradiol-17beta alone. No ewe treated with PGF2alpha alone aborted (P > or = 0.05). Forty percent of ewes treated with PGF2alpha + estradiol-17beta aborted (P < or = 0.05), but ewes were not aborted by any other treatment within the 72-h sampling period. Profiles of progesterone in jugular venous blood differed (P < or = 0.05) among control, indomethacin-, tamoxifen-, and PGF2alpha + indomethacin-treated ewes. Progesterone in jugular venous blood of control ewes decreased (P < or = 0.05) by 24 h, followed by a quadratic increase (P < or = 0.05) from 24 to 62 h. Progesterone in jugular venous blood of indomethacin-, PGF2alpha-, PGF2alpha- + tamoxifen-, PGF2alpha + indomethacin-, PGF2alpha + estradiol-17beta-, and tamoxifen-treated ewes was reduced (P < or = 0.05) by 18 h and did not vary (P > or = 0.05) for the remainder of the 72-h sampling period. Progesterone in vena cava and in uterine venous blood was reduced (P < or = 0.05) at 72 h in PGF2alpha-, indomethacin-, tamoxifen-, PGF2alpha + indomethacin-, PGF2alpha + tamoxifen-, and PGF2alpha + estradiol-17beta-treated ewes. Weights of placentomes did not differ among treatment groups (P > or = 0.05). Profiles of PSPB in inferior vena cava blood differed (P < or = 0.05) among control, estradiol-17beta-, indomethacin-, tamoxifen-, PGF2alpha + indomethacin-, and PGF2alpha + tamoxifen-treated 88- to 90-day pregnant ewes. Concentrations of PSPB in inferior vena cava blood were increased (P < or = 0.05) in indomethacin-, estradiol-17beta-, tamoxifen-, PGF2alpha + tamoxifen-, and PGF2alpha + indomethacin-treated 88- to 90-day pregnant ewes within 6 h and did not vary (P > or = 0.05) for the remainder of the 72-h sampling period. Concentrations of PSPB in uterine venous blood of indomethacin-, tamoxifen-, PGF2alpha + tamoxifen-, and PGF2alpha + indomethacin-treated ewes were greater (P < or = 0.05) at 72 h than at 0 h. PSPB in ovarian venous blood did not differ (P > or = 0.05) adjacent or opposite to the ovary with the corpus luteum. It is concluded from these data that estrogen regulates placental secretion of PSPB and that a prostanoid, presumably prostaglandin E, regulates placental secretion of progesterone during 88-90 days of gestation in sheep and that there is no luteal source of PSPB.

Secretion of progesterone, estradiol-17beta, PGE, PGF2alpha, and pregnancy-specific protein B by 90-day intact and ovariectomized pregnant ewes

Ninety-day pregnant ewes were either laparotomized, ovaries left in situ or bilaterally ovariectomized, and a jugular venous catheter and an inferior vena cava catheter via the saphenous vein were installed. Seven days later, placenta slices were collected and incubated in vitro for 4 h. Secretions of progesterone, PGE, estradiol-17beta and pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) in vitro by placenta from ovariectomized ewes were increased (P < or = 0.05) by 2.7-, 3.6-, 2.2-, and 2.4-fold, respectively, when compared to placenta slices from intact 90-day pregnant ewes. Secretion of PGF2alpha in vitro was unchanged (P > or = 0.05). Ovariectomy decreased (P < or = 0.05) jugular venous progesterone for 78 h followed by a quadratic increase (P < or = 0.05), whereas progesterone remained unchanged (P > or = 0.05) in intact ewes over the 162-h sampling period. Ovariectomy increased (P < or = 0.05) PGE in inferior vena cava plasma over the last half of the 162-h sampling period, whereas concentration of PGF2alpha did not change (P > or = 0.05). Increases in PGE occurred before the increase in progesterone. Concentrations of PSPB in inferior vena cava plasma of ovariectomized pregnant ewes increased (P < or = 0.05) during the last half of the 162-h sampling period, but not in intact ewes (P > or = 0.05). PSPB increased before PGE and progesterone. Concentrations of estradiol-17beta in jugular venous plasma of ovariectomized pregnant ewes increased (P < or = 0.05) during the last half of the sampling period, but not in intact ewes (P > or = 0.05). Increases in estradiol-17beta occurred before increases in PSPB. It is concluded that these data support the hypothesis that estradiol-17beta may control placental secretion of PSPB; PSPB may regulate placental secretion of PGE; and PGE may regulate placental secretion of progesterone.

Isolation, purification, and characterization of pregnancy-specific protein B from elk and moose placenta

Pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) was isolated, purified, and partially characterized from elk and moose placenta. The procedure, which was monitored by bovine PSPB (bPSPB) RIA, included homogenization and extraction in aqueous solution, acidic and ammonium sulfate precipitation, and ion exchange, gel filtration, and affinity chromatographies. The estimated molecular sizes of moose PSPB (mPSPB) were 58 kDa and 31 kDa, and of elk PSPB (ePSPB) were 57 kDa, 45 kDa, and 31 kDa by SDS-PAGE. The isoelectric points of mPSPB were 4.8, 6.6, and 6.7, and of ePSPB were 4.8, 4.9, 6.1, and 6.2 as determined by isoelectric focusing and two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. The carbohydrate contents of mPSPB and ePSPB were approximately 3.15% and 4.98%, respectively. Although ePSPB and mPSPB were recognized by anti-bPSPB in an Ouchterlony double immunodiffusion test, they were found to share identical epitopes and partial identities compared to bPSPB. After treatment at different temperatures (20-60 degrees C) for 1 h, the immunoreactivities of ePSPB and mPSPB in serum were very stable. Only ePSPB in serum treated at 60 degrees C lost some immunoreactivity. After alteration of serum pH (pH 3-11) for 2 h, the immunoreactivities of ePSPB and mPSPB became lower at pH 3 and 4, and remained stable from pH 5 to 11. These data show that moose and elk PSPB have properties similar to those of bovine and ovine PSPB.

PGE2 induces its own secretion in vitro by bovine 270-day placenta but not by 200-day placenta

Two separate experiments were conducted to determine whether prostaglandin (PG) E2 stimulates the secretion of progesterone by 270- or 200-day Brahman placentas in vitro. Secretion of progesterone, PGF2alpha, pregnancy specific protein B, or estradiol-17beta by 270-day Brahman placentas was not affected (p > or = 0.05) by PGE2, during the 4-h incubation period at the doses tested. Indomethacin or meclofenamic acid decreased (p < or = 0.05) 270-day Brahman placental secretion of PGE and PGF2alpha by 98 and 60%, respectively. However, PGE2 induced (p < or = 0.05) its own secretion, but not the secretion of PGF2alpha (p > or = 0.05), by 270-day Brahman placentas, even in the presence of indomethacin or meclofenamic acid at a dose of 100 ng/mL. Also, secretion of 8-Epi-PGE2 by Day 270 Brahman placentas was increased (p < or = 0.05) by PGE2. Secretion of progesterone, estradiol-17beta, or pregnancy specific protein B by 200-day Brahman placentas was not affected by PGE2, 8-Epi-PGE2, PGF2alpha, estradiol-17beta, or trichosanthin during the 4- or 8-h incubation period (p > or = 0.05). Secretion of estradiol-17beta at 8 h was lower (p < or = 0.05) in all treatment groups and did not differ (p > or = 0.05) among the 8-h incubation treatment groups. Secretion of PGE by 200-day Brahman placentas was reduced (p < 0.05) by indomethacin 72 and 82% and by meclofenamic acid 72 and 96%, respectively, at 4 and 8 h when compared to controls. Secretion of PGF2alpha was reduced (p < or = 0.05) 71 and 86% by indomethacin or 89 and 89% by meclofenamic acid at 4 and 8 h, respectively, and did not differ (p > or = 0.05) between 4 and 8 h of incubation. PGE2 did not (p > or = 0.05) induce secretion of PGE above what was added in any treatment group. PGE in culture media was increased (p < or = 0.05) by 8-Epi-PGE2, pregnancy specific protein B, and the 100 ng/mL PGF2alpha dose (p < or = 0.05), but not by PGE2, progesterone, estradiol-17beta, 8-Epi-PGF2alpha, or trichosanthin. Secretion of PGF2alpha by 200-day Brahman placentas was not affected (p > or = 0.05) by 8-Epi-PGE2, progesterone, or estradiol-17beta, but PGF2alpha secretion was increased (p < or = 0.05) by trichosanthin or PGE2, even in the presence of indomethacin or meclofenamic acid. It is concluded that PGE does not affect secretion of progesterone by 200- or 270-day bovine placentas, but, pregnancy specific protein B may regulate placental secretion of PGE. Also, indomethacin and meclofenamic may affect enzymes converting PGH to PGE rather than acting only on cyclooxygenase because indomethacin and meclofenamic acid lowered PGE secretion by 270-day Brahman placentas more than they lowered PGF2alpha. In addition, it is concluded that PGE2 can induce bovine placental secretion of PGE, but this is dependent upon the stage of gestation.

Pregnancy detection and the effects of age, body weight, and previous reproductive performance on pregnancy status and weaning rates of farmed fallow deer (Dama dama)

Fallow does (n = 502) of different ages (mature, 2-yr-old, and yearling) were maintained with bucks for a 60-d breeding season to determine whether previous reproductive performance and changes in BW affect doe pregnancy rates and to compare the effectiveness of ultrasonography and serum pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) for the detection of pregnancy in fallow does. Ultrasonography was performed, blood samples collected, and BW recorded at buck removal (d 0) and at 30 and 90 d after buck removal. Lactational status (lactating = WET; nonlactating = DRY) were determined from farm records taken at weaning prior to each breeding season (autumn 1990 through autumn 1994). Ultrasonography and PSPB for determining pregnancy were in agreement 93% of the time. Overall pregnancy rates did not differ (P>.10) relative to age of the doe; the combined pregnancy rate was 92%. We also determined that 82.9% of does conceived early in the breeding season and that the incidence of embryonal-fetal mortality during the first 90 d after buck removal was 2.8%. In general, mature and 2-yr-old DRY does were heavier and had lower pregnancy rates than WET does. The overall weaning rate for all does was 77.9%. Loss in the number of fawns from pregnancy detection to weaning was equivalent to 14.8% for mature does, 24.7% for 2 yr old does, and 42.5% for yearling does. These data indicate that even though pregnancy rates were relatively high, further study is needed to determine the causes associated with subsequent fawn losses, particularly among yearling does. As a production tool, lactational WET/ DRY status testing was found to be an acceptable means for determining the reproductive potential of individual does within the herd. In addition, serum PSPB may be used in place of ultrasonography for pregnancy diagnosis in fallow deer as early as d 30 after buck removal.

Pregnancy-specific protein B induces release of an alpha chemokine in bovine endometrium

Pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB), is secreted from binucleate trophoblast of the bovine conceptus as early as day 15 of pregnancy. The objective of this experiment was to determine if PSPB induced uterine proteins. PSPB was purified from day 120 cotyledons using antibody-based affinity chromatography. Endometrium from day 14 nonpregnant cows (n = 3) was prepared for explant (3H-Leu added) culture. Radiolabeled proteins released into medium were dialyzed, separated using 1D-PAGE, and detected using fluorography and densitometry. PSPB (0, 0.5, 5, 25 & 50 nM) caused a concentration-dependent increase in the release of a radiolabeled 8-kDa uterine protein. Western blots revealed that the 8-kDa protein cross-reacted with antibody against granulocyte chemotactic protein-2 (GCP-2). PSPB also induced release of GCP-2 by bovine endometrial (BEND) cells in primary culture. The induction of GCP-2 by PSPB was blocked by addition of antiserum against PSPB (1:4 molar ratio). This is the first indication that PSPB has a hormonal role in inducing GCP-2, an alpha chemokine that also is induced by interferon-tau during early pregnancy. This chemotactic cytokine may be integral to mediating adhesion, inflammation and angiogenesis associated with early implantation.

Computer analysis of video and ultrasonographic images for evaluation of bull testes

The objectives of this study were to determine relationships between scrotal size (SC; estimated from a video image) and testicular size, and between ultrasonographic echotexture of the testis and seminiferous tubule area in bulls. Video images of the scrotum of 49 Holstein-Friesian (H-F) bulls were recorded and digitized. Scrotal width and length were measured with custom software. After slaughter, scrotums (containing testes) were excised, SC and testicular height, width and volume were measured, and the testes were examined ultrasonographically. Correlations between SC and testicular width or volume (r = 0.86, P < 0.001 and r = 0.84, P < 0.001, respectively) were much higher than those between scrotal width and testicular width or volume (r = 0.23, P < 0.11 and r = 0.28, P < 0.06). Histological examination of the testes was performed in 31 of the bulls. Ultrasonographic echotexture of the testes (determined with custom software) was highly correlated (r = -0.5, P < 0.005) with seminiferous tubule area. Although SC was superior to video imaging for estimating testicular size, ultrasonographic imaging of the testes has considerable potential for the evaluation of testicular function in bulls.

Endocrine and thermal responses to GnRH treatment and prediction of sperm output and viability in holstein-Friesian breeding bulls

A study was conducted to determine changes in serum LH and testosterone concentrations and in scrotal surface temperature (SST; measured with infrared thermography) following GnRH treatment and to predict the number of spermatozoa collected and the proportion that were viable. Holstein-Friesian breeding bulls (n = 22, average age, 24.3 m.o.; range, 15 to 41 m.o.) were examined twice 30 d apart. Concurrently, semen was collected twice weekly with an artificial vagina. Treatment with GnRH (100 micrograms, i.m.) increased (P < 0.0001) serum LH and testosterone concentrations and increased (P < 0.0001) SST (range 0.6 to 1.1 degrees C; P < 0.05) at the top and bottom of the scrotum. In regression models to predict the total number of spermatozoa, significant independent variables included ultrasonic echotexture of the testes (negative slope), scrotal width (positive slope) and SST at the bottom of the scrotum 45 min after GnRH treatment (positive slope). In regression models to predict the percentage of live spermatozoa, ultrasonic echotexture was a significant independent variable (negative slope). Measurement of testicular ultrasonic echotexture and SST after GnRH treatment augmented measurement of testicular size for predicting the number and percentage of live spermatozoa.

Morphologic, endocrine and thermographic measurements of testicles in comparison with semen characteristics in mature Holstein-Friesian breeding bulls

Twenty Holstein-Friesian breeding bulls (62-79 months of age) were examined 3 times, at 30-day intervals. Scrotal thermograms for assessment of scrotal surface temperature (SST) and blood samples for plasma testosterone concentrations were taken just before and then 45 and 90 min, respectively, after treatment with GnRH (50 micrograms, Gonavet, i.m. per bull). Following GnRH treatment, there generally were significant increases in mean values of both top SST (range, -0.1 to 1.4 degrees C) and bottom SST (range, 0.3 to 1.8 degrees C). Scrotal circumference was highly repeatable but SST and video-measurements of scrotal dimensions were less repeatable, because apparently they were affected by ambient temperature. Plasma testosterone concentrations before GnRH treatment were more repeatable than those after GnRH treatment. Correlations between examinations of 0.67 to 0.81 and -0.14 to 0.47, respectively, but the converse was true for SST measurements. Semen was collected with an artificial vagina 3 times per week for 12 weeks starting 2 weeks before the first examination. The total number of spermatozoa per ejaculate was highly repeatable and the percentage of motile and live spermatozoa were relatively consistent. Separate regressions for each variable and for each examination were conducted for these 3 semen characteristics as dependent variables. For the number of spermatozoa per ejaculate and for the percentage of motile spermatozoa, significant independent variables were plasma testosterone concentrations and difference between top and bottom SST, respectively. The slopes of these equations were nearly all negative and the R2 was from 0.15 to 0.42. For prediction of the percentage of live spermatozoa, both SST gradient and plasma testosterone concentrations were significant independent variables. For these regressions, the slopes were negative and the regression coefficients were generally lower than for the other 2 dependent variables (range, 0.16 to 0.25). Treatment with GnRH and assessment of SST and plasma testosterone concentrations have some correlation with the semen production in the mature bull.

Effects of luteinizing hormone (LH), PGE2, 8-Epi-PGE1, 8-Epi-PGF2 alpha, trichosanthin and pregnancy specific protein B (PSPB) on secretion of prostaglandin (PG) E (PGE) or F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) in vitro by corpora lutea (CL) from nonpregnant and pregnant cows

Both Day 14 corpora lutea (CL) of the estrous cycle and Day 200 CL of pregnancy secrete detectable prostaglandin E (PGE) and prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) in vitro. Corpora lutea from Day 200 pregnant cows secrete more PGE and PGF alpha in vitro than Day 14 CL of the estrous cycle when incubated in control medium without treatments (p < or = 0.05). In addition, secretion of both PGE and PGF2 alpha in vitro by both Day 200 CL of pregnancy and Day 14 of the estrous cycle increase (p < or = 0.05) with time in culture in the absence of treatments. The PGE:PGF2 alpha ratio secreted at 4 h in the absence of treatments by Day 14 CL of the estrous cycle was 1.2 and at 8 h was 1.0 and did not differ (p > or = 0.05), while the PGE:PGF2 alpha ratio secreted by 200 day CL of pregnancy in the absence of treatments at 4 h was 0.8 and at 8 h decreased (p < or = 0.05) to 0.4. The PGE:PGF2 alpha ratio at 8 h by 200 day CL of pregnancy was lower (p < or = 0.05) than in the Day 14 CL of the estrous cycle at 4 or 8 h. Secretion of PGE or PGF2 alpha was affected by luteinizing hormone, PGE2, 8-Epi-PGE1, 8-Epi-PGE2, trichosanthin, and pregnancy specific protein B (PSPB) and was time and dose dependent (p < or = 0.05). In summary, the altered ratio of PGE:PGF2 alpha may explain the decreased secretion of progesterone at 8 h by Day 200 CL of pregnancy reported previously from the same samples. In addition, caution should be exercised in interpretation of progesterone secretion data with bovine CL studies in vitro. Also, PSPB may play an indirect role through PGE to regulate bovine luteal secretion of progesterone.

Early pregnancy detection and the hormonal characterization of embryonic-fetal mortality in fallow deer (Dama dama)

The objectives of this investigation were to 1) determine serum concentrations of progesterone (P4), estrone sulfate (E1S) and pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) from estrus synchronization through mid-gestation in the fallow doe (Dama dama) and 2) characterize the hormonal profiles of does whose embryos or fetuses died in utero. Ten fallow does were synchronized for 14 d with an intravaginal P4-releasing device (CIDR) and were naturally mated after CIDR removal. Blood samples were collected at CIDR insertion, CIDR removal and at intervals through Day 203 post-CIDR removal for analysis of P4, E1S and PSPB by radioimmunoassay (RIA). Ultrasonography was performed on Days 49 and 69 post-CIDR removal. Serum P4 at the time of CIDR insertion was 4.8 +/- 0.6 ng/ml, and at CIDR withdrawal it was 6.2 +/- 0.3 ng/ml. Concentrations of E1S and PSPB were nondetectable at CIDR insertion. Serum E1S was highest at Day 93, and PSPB was first detectable in pregnant does at Days 27 to 30 post-CIDR withdrawal. Ultrasonography on Day 49 revealed that 6 does were pregnant, 2 were not pregnant and 2 others were diagnosed originally as early pregnant. At Day 69, ultrasonography revealed that 6 does (60%) were pregnant and 4 (40%) were not. A comparison of the ultrasonographic and hormonal data indicated that the 2 does diagnosed as early pregnant on Day 49 had conceived but had lost the pregnancy. A third doe which was pregnant on Day 69 lost the fetus later in gestation. Hormonal profiles of does whose embryo or fetus had died were characterized by erratic P4 and E1S profiles, with PSPB becoming undetectable in the 3 does by Days 49, 65 and 80 post-CIDR removal. These data 1) demonstrate the timing for the collection of serum samples for determining early pregnancy in fallow does using 3 hormonal methods and 2) characterize the hormonal profiles of 3 fallow does with embryonic-fetal loss.

Effect of luteinizing hormone (LH), PGE2, 8-EPI-PGE1, 8-EPI-PGE2, trichosanthin, and pregnancy specific protein B (PSPB) on secretion of progesterone in vitro by corpora lutea (CL) from nonpregnant and pregnant cows

Secretion of progesterone by Day 14 bovine corpora lutea (CL) of the estrous cycle and Day 200 CL of pregnancy was evaluated in vitro to determine what regulates secretion of progesterone by CL of pregnancy. Weights of Day 200 CL of pregnancy (4356 +/- 223 g) were heavier when compared to Day 14 CL of the estrous cycle of Brahman cows (3643 +/- 128 g; p < or = 0.05); however, both Day 14 and Day 200 minced CL slices secreted similar basal amounts of progesterone per unit mass (p > or = 0.05). Secretion of progesterone in vitro by Day 14 CL of the estrous cycle was increased at 4 and 8 h (p < or = 0.05) by 10 or 100 ng/mL luteinizing hormone (LH) and did not differ between doses (p > or = 0.05). Progesterone secretion in vitro by Day 200 CL of pregnancy was not increased (p > or = 0.05) by LH at 4 or 8 h. However, progesterone secretion in vitro by Day 14 CL of the estrous cycle or Day 200 CL of pregnancy was increased (p < or = 0.05) at 4 h by 10 or 100 ng/mL PGE2, which did not differ by dose or reproductive status (p > or = 0.05). At 8 h, Day 14 CL of the estrous cycle secretion of progesterone in vitro was increased (p < or = 0.05) by both doses of PGE2 but only at 8 h by 100 ng/mL from Day 200 CL of pregnancy (p < or = 0.05). Secretion of progesterone in vitro was not affected (p > or = 0.05) by 10 or 100 ng/mL 8-Epi-PGE1 or 8-Epi-PGE2 at 4 or 8 h from Day 14 CL of the estrous cycle or Day 200 of pregnancy. Trichosanthin increased (p < or = 0.05) secretion of progesterone in vitro by 10 ng/mL at 4 h and at 8 h by Day 14 CL of the estrous cycle or at 8 h by Day 200 CL of pregnancy but trichosanthin at 100 ng/mL did not affect (p > or = 0.05) secretion of progesterone in vitro by Day 14 CL of the estrous cycle or Day 200 CL of pregnancy at 4 or 8 h. Pregnancy specific protein B (PSPB) increased (p < or = 0.05) secretion of progesterone in vitro at 4 and 8 h by Day 14 CL of the estrous cycle and did not differ between incubation times (p > or = 0.05). PSPB increased secretion of progesterone at 4 h but not at 8 h (p > or = 0.05) by Day 200 CL of pregnancy. These data suggest that PGE2 or PSPB but not LH, 8-Epi-PGE1 or 8-Epi-PGE2 regulates luteal secretion of progesterone by bovine CL at mid-pregnancy. In addition, it is suggested that weights of bovine CL of pregnancy increase to compensate for a lack of placental secretion of progesterone.

Norgestomet implants prevent pregnancy in beef heifers on pasture

The efficacy of erodible norgestomet implants for preventing pregnancy in postpubertal heifers was evaluated in two experiments at five locations each. Heifers (n = 896) within each study location were stratified by weight and allotted randomly to receive an ear implant containing either 0, 24, 36, or 48 mg of norgestomet (d 0). Heifers were exposed to fertile bulls immediately after implantation for 75 d (d 0 to 74) in Exp. 1 (n = 476) or for 80 d (d 75 to 154) in Exp. 2 (n = 420). Weights were recorded on d 0 and 74 (Exp. 1 and 2) and d 154 (Exp. 2). Each heifer was palpated rectally for pregnancy at the end of each experiment. Pregnancy rates were higher (P < .01) for control heifers (0 mg implant) than for heifers that received 24, 36, or 48 mg of norgestomet. In Exp. 1, pregnancy rates were 96, 29, 6, and 4% for heifers that received 0, 24, 36, and 48 mg implants of norgestomet, respectively. In Exp. 2, pregnancy rates were 85, 36, 19, and 9% for heifers that received 0, 24, 36, and 48 mg implants of norgestomet, respectively. Estrous activity during the first 3 wk of bull exposure was reduced (P < .05) among heifers that received norgestomet implants compared to control heifers but was not completely abolished at any dosage in Exp. 1. During the first 75 d of Exp. 1 and 2, heifers treated with 36 or 48 mg norgestomet implants gained weight faster (P < .05) than control heifers. Combined across both experiments, ADG during the first 74 d were .53, .56, .59, and .60 kg/d for heifers treated with 0, 24, 36, and 48 mg implants of norgestomet, respectively. These data indicate that norgestomet implants increased rate of weight gain, reduced estrous activity, and reduced the occurrence of pregnancy in heifers on pasture.

Effect of forage:concentrate ratio on digestion and reproduction in primiparous beef heifers

We evaluated the effects of high- (HF) and moderate- (MF) forage diets on digestive and reproductive characteristics in beef heifers. Thirty primiparous beef heifers were allotted by weight and backfat thickness to receive either 80:20 (HF) or 50: 50 (MF) forage:concentrate ratio diets from parturition to at least 90 d postpartum. Alfalfa hay and wheat straw were the forage sources and barley was the concentrate source. Equal daily amounts of ME were provided to all heifers by restricting intake of the MF diet. Digestibility of DM was greater (P < .001) for MF compared with HF diets, whereas NDF digestibility was not different. Dry matter and NDF digested daily was lower (P < .001) for MF than for HF diets. Ruminal fluid pH was lower (P < .05) for MF diets; however, the acetate:propionate ratio was not different. Serum insulin concentrations were greater for MF diets for all hours (P < .001) and weeks (P < .05) of sampling. Changes in weight, backfat thickness, and body condition score at 90 d postpartum were not different between treatments. Calf gain to 30 d, however, was greater (P < .10) for the MF than for the HF treatment (25.5 vs 20.7 kg). Maximum size of the ovulatory follicle was greater (P < .10) for cows receiving the HF diet than for cows receiving the MF diet. However, other aspects of ovarian follicular growth and wave dynamics and the intervals from parturition to first and second ovulation, first estrus, first service, and conception were not different between treatments. Shifts in energy supply from forage to concentrate had minimal effect on digestion and reproduction in first-calf beef heifers in this study.

PGE1 or PGE2 not LH regulates secretion of progesterone in vitro by the 88-90 day ovine corpus luteum of pregnancy

Secretion of progesterone in vitro by mature day 8 ovine corpora lutea (CL) of the estrous cycle was increased linearly by ovine LH (1, 10 and 100 ng/ml) or prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) 1, 10 and 100 ng/ml) in a dose dependent manner (P < or = 0.05). Progesterone secretion in vitro by 88-90 day ovine CL of pregnancy was not affected P > or = 0.05 by LH (1, 10 and 100 ng/ml) while prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) 1, 10 and 100 ng/ml) increased (P < or = 0.05) secretion of progesterone in a dose dependent manner and PGE2 (1, 10 and 100 ng/ml) increased (P < or = 0.05) secretion of progesterone only at the 100 ng/ml dose. Day 8 ovine CL of the estrous cycle did not secrete (P > or = 0.05) detectable quantities of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) or prostaglandin E (PGE) while 88-90 day ovine CL of pregnancy secrete PGE (P < or = 0.05) but not PGF2 alpha (P > or = 0.05). Regulation of PGE secretion by 88-90 day ovine CL of pregnancy may be via pregnancy specific protein B (PSPB), which increased (P < or = 0.05) PGE and progesterone but not PGF2 alpha (P > or = 0.05) secretion. Secretion of progesterone by CL of 88-90 days of pregnancy was not affected by IGF1, IGF2, PAF-16, PAF-18, oxytocin, PGI2, PGD2 or leukotriene C4 (P > or = 0.05). It is concluded that PGE1 or PGE2 but not LH regulates secretion of progesterone in vitro by 88-90 day ovine CL of pregnancy. In addition, it is concluded that 88-90 day ovine CL of pregnancy secretes it's own luteotropin, which is PGE. Secretion of PGE by ovine CL of pregnancy may be regulated by PSPB.

Artificial insemination, hybridization and pregnancy detection in sika deer ()

Artificial insemination (AI) was performed on sika hinds (Cervus nippon ) receiving various dosages of pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG; Year 1: 0, 50 and 100 IU; Year 2: 100 and 150 IU) and using semen collected from elk and 1 2 elk x 1 2 sika stags. The time from synchronization device removal (CIDR vs norgestomet) to estrus was determined through observations of mounting activity. Methods for pregnancy detection, serum progesterone (P4), estrone sulfate (E1S), pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) and ultrasonography, following AI (Year 1: AI, Days 28 and 48 after AI; Year 2: AI, Days 42, 53 and 100 after AI) and a 90-d natural breeding season were investigated. From available production data, body weights were compared among sika and 1 4 elk x 3 4 sika hybrids relative to age. Pregnancy rates tended (P < 0.10) to differ relative to PMSG treatment and sire; administration of 0 IU PMSG resulted in fewer hinds becoming pregnant to AI than 50 or 100 IU of PMSG. Hinds receiving 100 IU of PMSG had higher (P < 0.05) pregnancy rates than hinds receiving 150 IU PMSG. Time to standing estrus did not differ (P > 0.10) between the CIDR and norgestomet groups. Pregnancy rates 50 d after a 90-d breeding season were similar (P > 0.10) between ultrasound (70.9%) and PSPB (61.6%). Serum P4 after 90 d in breeding groups and 50 d after stag removal were higher (P < 0.05) for pregnant than open hinds. Pregnancy rates (Year 1) 48 d after AI were similar (P > 0.10) between ultrasound (49.0%) and PSPB (37.3%). Serum P4 28 and 48 d after AI were higher (P < 0.05) for pregnant than open hinds. Serum E1S was higher (P < 0.01) for pregnant than open hinds 48 d after AI. Pregnancy rates (Year 2) 100 d after AI did not differ (P > 0.10) between ultrasound and PSPB (66.7%). Serum P4 was higher (P < 0.03) in pregnant than open hinds at 42, 53 and 100 d after AI. At 100 d after AI, pregnant hinds had higher (P < 0.002) serum E1S than open hinds. At 6 to 8 and 11 to 13 mo of age, 1 4 elk x 3 4 sika males tended (P < 0.08) to be heavier than sika males, while 1 4 elk x 3 4 sika females were heavier (P < 0.05) than sika females at all ages. In summary, this study documents the use of AI and methods for pregnancy detection in sika hinds as well as preliminary information regarding the production of elk-x-sika hybrids.

Bovine luteal cell production in vitro of prostaglandin E2, oxytocin and progesterone in response to pregnancy-specific protein B and prostaglandin F2 alpha

A study was conducted to determine the effects of pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) and prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) on bovine luteal cell progesterone, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and oxytocin production in vitro. Corpora lutea were enucleated from multiparous cows with normal oestrous cycles during the mid-luteal (days 10-12; n = 5) or late-luteal (days 17-18; n = 5) stage. Mixed large and small cells (1.5 x 10(5) cells per well) were incubated in 500 microliters modified Ham's F-12 medium. Cells were incubated for 18 h before treatments were added. Cells were treated with PSPB (0, 2.5, 5.0 micrograms) and PGF2 alpha (0, 100, 200 ng) in a 3 x 3 factorial arrangement. After treatments were added, media samples were collected at 6 and 12 h. During the 18 h pretreatment incubation, progesterone, PGE2 and oxytocin production was similar between the prospective treatment groups. Progesterone production was greater (P < 0.001) by mid-stage than by late-stage cells. In addition, progesterone decreased (P < 0.001) as incubation time increased. Progesterone production was not affected by PGF2 alpha, but PSPB increased (P < 0.02) progesterone at the 5.0 micrograms dose. Late-stage luteal cells produced more (P < 0.001) PGE2 than did mid-stage cells; PGE2 production decreased (P < 0.001) with increased incubation time. Luteal PGE2 production increased in response to PSPB treatment (P < 0.01) and PGF2 alpha treatment (P < 0.001). Luteal oxytocin production was greater (P < 0.01) by mid-stage compared with late-stage cells. Oxytocin production decreased (P < 0.001) with incubation time in mid-stage cells, but in late-stage cells oxytocin production was similar over time. Neither PSPB nor PGF2 alpha had an effect on oxytocin. These results indicate that PSPB does not affect luteal oxytocin, but does increase progesterone and PGE2 production. In addition, PGF2 alpha increases luteal PGE2, but does not affect progesterone or oxytocin production. These data do not show an interaction between PSPB and PGF2 alpha in regulating bovine luteal cell endocrine function.