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Hassanein EM, Szelényi Z, Szenci O. Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) and Its Agonists in Bovine Reproduction II: Diverse Applications during Insemination, Post-Insemination, Pregnancy, and Postpartum Periods. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1575. [PMID: 38891622 PMCID: PMC11171120 DOI: 10.3390/ani14111575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The administration of GnRH and its agonists benefits various aspects of bovine reproductive programs, encompassing physiological stages such as estrous synchronization, post-insemination, pregnancy, and the postpartum period. The positive impact of GnRH administration in overcoming challenges like repeat breeder cows, early embryonic loss prevention, and the management of cystic ovarian disease (COD) is thoroughly surveyed. Furthermore, this review focuses on the significance of GnRH administration during the postpartum period, its role in ovulation induction, and how it enhances the productivity of embryo transfer (ET) programs. An emerging feature of this field is introduced, focusing on nano-drug delivery systems for GnRH agonists, and the potential benefits that may arise from such advancements are highlighted. While this review offers valuable insights into various applications of GnRH in bovine reproduction, it emphasizes the crucial need for further research and development in this field to advance reproductive efficiency and health management in dairy cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman M. Hassanein
- Department of Obstetrics and Food Animal Medicine Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, H-2225 Üllő, Hungary; (E.M.H.); (Z.S.)
- Animal and Fish Production Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21545, Egypt
| | - Zoltán Szelényi
- Department of Obstetrics and Food Animal Medicine Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, H-2225 Üllő, Hungary; (E.M.H.); (Z.S.)
| | - Ottó Szenci
- Department of Obstetrics and Food Animal Medicine Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, H-2225 Üllő, Hungary; (E.M.H.); (Z.S.)
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2
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Rio Feltrin I, Guimarães da Silva A, Rocha CC, Ferraz PA, da Silva Rosa PM, Martins T, Coelho da Silveira J, Oliveira ML, Binelli M, Pugliesi G, Membrive CMB. Effects of 17β-estradiol on the uterine luteolytic cascade in bovine females at the end of diestrus. Theriogenology 2024; 213:1-10. [PMID: 37783065 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
In cattle, 17β-estradiol (E2) is essential for triggering luteolysis via the synthesis of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α). We aimed to evaluate the effects of E2-treatment on day 15 of the estrous cycle on the transcript abundance of genes involved in the PGF2α synthetic cascade. Nelore heifers (N = 50) were subjected to a hormonal protocol for the synchronization of ovulation. Between days 14 and 23 after estrus, the area (cm2) and blood perfusion (%) of the corpus luteum (CL) and progesterone (P4) plasma concentrations were evaluated daily. On day 15, the heifers were assigned to the Control (2 mL of pure sesame oil, N = 21) or Estradiol group (1 mg of E2 diluted in 2 mL of sesame oil, N = 23). After the treatments at 0 h, uterine biopsies were collected at times 1.5 h (C1.5h, N = 8 and E1.5h, N = 10) or 3 h (C3h, N = 8 and E3h, N = 11); and blood samples were obtained from 0, 3, 4, 6 and 7 h for the measurement of 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGF2α (PGFM) concentrations by ELISA. Transcript abundance was determined by RT-qPCR and protein abundance of ESRβ and OXTR was determined by Western Blotting. The Estradiol group showed greater (P < 0.05) concentrations of PGFM at 6 and 7 h compared to the Control group. A progressive decrease in plasma P4 concentrations characterized a hastened functional luteolysis, followed by structural luteolysis in the Estradiol group (P < 0.05). Among the treatment groups, no significant difference was detected for the abundance of PRKCα, PRKCβ, AKR1B1, PTGS2 and ESRα transcripts (P > 0.05). Estradiol treatment decreased the abundance of PLA2G4A, AKR1C4, and ESRβ both 1.5h and 3h after treatment (P < 0.05). The relative expression of PGR and OXTR was greater in E3h compared to the C3h (P > 0.05). Protein abundance did not differ between treatment groups at either experimental times (P > 0.05). Overall, E2 promoted an increase in PGFM concentrations and the hastening of functional and structural luteolysis in Nelore heifers through the upregulation of PGR and OXTR, demonstrating for the first time that the expression of these receptors within 3 h after E2 stimulus was associated with triggering luteolysis in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Rio Feltrin
- Department of Pharmacology and Biotechnology, São Paulo State University - UNESP, Botucatu, SP, Brazil.
| | | | | | - Priscila Assis Ferraz
- Department of Animal Reproduction, University of São Paulo - USP, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Paola Maria da Silva Rosa
- Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo - USP, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Thiago Martins
- Departament of Animal and Dairy Sciences and Brown Loam Experiment Station, Mississipi State University, Raymond, Mississipi, USA
| | - Juliano Coelho da Silveira
- Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo - USP, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Milena Lopes Oliveira
- Agrarian Sciences Center, State University of Maranhão Tocantins Region, Imperatriz, MA, Brazil
| | - Mario Binelli
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida - UF, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Guilherme Pugliesi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, University of São Paulo - USP, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
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Newton MG, Stenhouse C, Halloran KM, Sah N, Moses RM, He W, Wu G, Bazer FW. Regulation of synthesis of polyamines by progesterone, estradiol, and their receptors in uteri of cyclic ewes†. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:309-318. [PMID: 37418162 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Progesterone (P4), estradiol (E2), and expression of their receptors (PGR and ESR1, respectively) by cells of the uterus regulate reproductive performance of mammals through effects on secretion and transport of nutrients into the uterine lumen. This study investigated the effect of changes in P4, E2, PGR, and ESR1 on expression of enzymes for the synthesis and secretion of polyamines. Suffolk ewes (n = 13) were synchronized to estrus (Day 0) and then, on either Day 1 (early metestrus), Day 9 (early diestrus), or Day 14 (late diestrus) of the estrous cycle, maternal blood samples were collected, and ewes were euthanized before obtaining uterine samples and uterine flushings. Endometrial expression of MAT2B and SMS mRNAs increased in late diestrus (P < 0.05). Expression of ODC1 and SMOX mRNAs decreased from early metestrus to early diestrus, and expression of ASL mRNA was lower in late diestrus than in early metestrus (P < 0.05). Immunoreactive PAOX, SAT1, and SMS proteins were localized to uterine luminal, superficial glandular, and glandular epithelia, stromal cells, myometrium, and blood vessels. Concentrations of spermidine and spermine in maternal plasma decreased from early metestrus to early diestrus and decreased further in late diestrus (P < 0.05). The abundances of spermidine and spermine in uterine flushings were less in late diestrus than early metestrus (P < 0.05). These results indicate that synthesis and secretion of polyamines are affected by P4 and E2, as well as the expression of PGR and ESR1 in the endometria of cyclic ewes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makenzie G Newton
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Claire Stenhouse
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | | | - Nirvay Sah
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Robyn M Moses
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Wenliang He
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Guoyao Wu
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Fuller W Bazer
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
- Department of Animal Science, Kleberg Center, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
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4
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Santos A, Minela T, Branen J, Pursley JR. Time to increase in pregnancy-specific protein B following artificial insemination is a direct determinant of subsequent pregnancy loss in lactating dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:3734-3747. [PMID: 37028965 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-22553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
Increasing progesterone (P4) during early conceptus development may be crucial for establishment of pregnancy in dairy cattle. The objective of this study was to determine if human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) at various times after ovulation will increase serum P4 during elongation and increase the chances for, and reduce variability to, initial increase in pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) following artificial insemination (AI). Time to PSPB increase was defined as the first day of increase in concentrations of PSPB between d 18 and 28 after ovulation in cows with ≥12.5% increases for 3 consecutive days compared with baseline. Lactating cows (n = 368) synchronized to Double-Ovsynch (first service) or Ovsynch (second or greater service) received one of 4 treatments: no hCG (control), or 3,000 IU of hCG on d 2 (D2), 2 and 5 (D2+5), or 5 (D5) after ovulation. All cows were examined via ultrasound on d 5 and 10 postovulation to determine percentage of cows with hCG-induced accessory CL (aCL) and to quantify and measure all luteal structures. Samples for serum P4 were collected on d 0, 5, 19, and 20 postovulation. The P4 was increased in D2, D2+5, and D5 groups compared with control. The D2+5 and D5 treatments increased aCL and P4 compared with D2 and control. The D2 treatment increased P4 on d 5 after ovulation compared with control. Serum PSPB samples were collected daily from all cows on d 18 through 28 after ovulation for determination of d of PSPB increase. Pregnancy diagnoses were performed via ultrasound examination on d 35, 63, and 100 after ovulation and AI. The D5 treatment reduced percentage of cows with, and increased the time to, PSPB increase. Primiparous cows with ipsilateral aCL had reduced pregnancy loss before d 100 postovulation compared with cows with contralateral aCL. Cows that had PSPB increase >21 d postovulation had 4× greater chances of pregnancy loss compared with cows that had PSPB increase on d 20 or 21. The highest quartile of P4 on d 5, but not on d 19 and 20, was associated with reduced time to PSPB increase. Time to PSPB increase appears to be an important measurement to understand reasons for pregnancy loss in lactating dairy cows. Increasing P4 utilizing hCG after ovulation did not enhance early pregnancy or reduce pregnancy losses in lactating dairy cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Santos
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824
| | - T Minela
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824
| | - J Branen
- BioTracking Inc., Moscow, ID 83843
| | - J R Pursley
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824.
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McLean MK, Geary TW, Zezeski AL, Smith MF, Spencer TE, Pohler KG, Reese ST, Perry GA. Impact of preovulatory estradiol concentrations on subsequent luteal function in beef cattle. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2022; 68:286-297. [PMID: 35394393 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2022.2038717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
It has been hypothesized that circulating concentrations of estradiol during the preovulatory period, can impact subsequent progesterone concentrations. Ovulation was synchronized in nonlactating beef cows (n = 53). Cows that exhibited estrus before gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-induced ovulation (d 0) had greater (p<.01) peak concentrations of estradiol compared with cows that did not express estrus (11.5 ± 0.8 vs. 6.2 ± 0.6 pg/mL), respectively, but there was no difference in ovulatory follicle size (p= .80) or interval from GnRH2 to ovulation (p=.23). Circulating concentrations of progesterone during luteal formation (d 3-7; p=.70 and p=.77) or mid-luteal phase (d 8-14; p=.39 and p=.12) were not affected by elevated periovulatory estradiol or an interaction with day. To investigate the direct influence of estradiol on luteal function, ovulation (d 0) was synchronized in nonlactating beef cows and cows were allocated to three groups (control, n = 5; vehicle injection, n = 4; or an estradiol antagonist (Fulvestrant; ICI 182,780), n = 4. Intrafollicular injection of vehicle (100 µL) or an estradiol antagonist (25 μg Fulvestrant in 100 µL) into the largest follicle occurred on d -2. Concentrations of estradiol increased (p<.0001) from d -2 to 0 but did not differ among groups (p>.50). Furthermore, plasma concentrations of progesterone on d 0 through 20 were not affected by treatment (p=.86). These results indicate that elevated preovulatory estradiol before ovulation was not required to prepare granulosa cells for luteinization or subsequent luteal progesterone secretion but did tend to impact luteal lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas W Geary
- USDA-ARS, Fort Keogh Livestock and Range Research Lab, Miles City, MT, USA
| | - Abby L Zezeski
- USDA-ARS, Fort Keogh Livestock and Range Research Lab, Miles City, MT, USA
| | | | | | - Ky G Pohler
- Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | | | - George A Perry
- Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center, Overton, TX, USA
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Oliveira ML, Mello BP, Gonella-Diaza AM, Scolari SC, Pugliesi G, Martins T, Feltrin IR, Sartori R, Canavessi AMO, Binelli M, Membrive CMB. Unravelling the role of 17β-estradiol on advancing uterine luteolytic cascade in cattle. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2022; 78:106653. [PMID: 34455235 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2021.106653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
In cattle, 17β-estradiol (E2) stimulates prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) synthesis, which causes luteolysis. Except for the well-established upregulation of oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR), molecular mechanisms of E2-induced PGF2α release in vivo remain unknown. We hypothesized that E2-induced PGF2α release requires de novo transcription of components of the PGF2α synthesis machinery. Beef cows (n = 52) were assigned to remain untreated (Control; n = 10), to receive 50% ethanol infusion intravenously (Placebo; n = 21), or 3 mg E2 in 50% ethanol infusion intravenously (Estradiol; n = 21) on day 15 (D15) after estrus. We collected a single endometrial biopsy per animal at the time of the treatment (0h; Control B0h group), 4 hours (4h; Placebo B4h group and Estradiol B4h group), or 7 hours (7h; Placebo B7h group and Estradiol B7h group) post-treatment. Compared to the Placebo group, the Estradiol group presented significantly greater 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGF2α concentrations between 4h and 7h and underwent earlier luteolysis. At 4h, the qPCR analysis showed a lower abundance of ESR1, ESR2 and aldo-keto reductase family 1 member B1 (AKR1B1) genes in the Estradiol B4h group, and a greater abundance of OXTR compared to the Placebo B4h group. Similarly, the E2 treatment significantly reduced the abundance of AKR1B1, and AKR1C4 in the Estradiol B7h group, compared to the placebo group. Overall, E2-induced PGF2α release and luteolysis involved an unexpected and transient downregulation of components of the PGF2α-synthesis cascade, except for OXTR, which was upregulated. Collectively, our data suggest that E2 connects newly-synthesized OXTR to pre-existing cellular machinery to synthesize PGF2α and cause luteal regression.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Oliveira
- Agrarian Sciences Center, State University of Maranhão Tocantine Region, 1300 Godofredo Viana St, Center, Imperatriz - MA, 65900-000, Brazil..
| | - B P Mello
- Department of Animal Reproduction, University of São Paulo, 225 Duque de Caxias Norte Ave, Pirassununga - SP, 13635900, Brazil
| | - A M Gonella-Diaza
- North Florida Research and Education Center, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, 3925 FL-71, Greenwood, FL 32443, USA
| | - S C Scolari
- Department of Animal Reproduction, University of São Paulo, 225 Duque de Caxias Norte Ave, Pirassununga - SP, 13635900, Brazil
| | - G Pugliesi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, University of São Paulo, 225 Duque de Caxias Norte Ave, Pirassununga - SP, 13635900, Brazil
| | - T Martins
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, 2250 Shealy Dr, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - I R Feltrin
- Department of Pharmacology and Biotechnology, São Paulo State University, Rubião Júnior District no number, Botucatu-SP, 18618-970, Brazil
| | - R Sartori
- Department of Animal Science, Luiz de Queiroz College of Agriculture, University of São Paulo, 11, Pádua Dias Ave, Piracicaba-SP, 13418900, Brazil
| | - A M O Canavessi
- Department of Animal Science, Luiz de Queiroz College of Agriculture, University of São Paulo, 11, Pádua Dias Ave, Piracicaba-SP, 13418900, Brazil
| | - M Binelli
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, 2250 Shealy Dr, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - C M B Membrive
- Department of Animal Sciences, São Paulo State University, 294-SP Commander João Ribeiro de Barros, 651 Road, Dracena-SP, 17900000, Brazil
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7
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Tippenhauer CM, Steinmetz I, Heuwieser W, Fricke PM, Lauber MR, Cabrera EM, Borchardt S. Effect of dose and timing of prostaglandin F 2α treatments during a 7-d Ovsynch protocol on progesterone concentration at the end of the protocol and pregnancy outcomes in lactating Holstein cows. Theriogenology 2020; 162:49-58. [PMID: 33444916 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of two prostaglandin F2α (PGF) treatments 24 h apart (500 μg of cloprostenol) and treatment with a double PGF dose on d 7 (1000 μg of cloprostenol) during a 7-d Ovsynch protocol on progesterone (P4) concentration and pregnancy per artificial insemination (P/AI) in lactating Holstein cows. We hypothesized that treatment leads to a decreased P4 concentration at the second GnRH treatment (G2) and an increase in P/AI compared to the traditional 7-d Ovsynch protocol. A secondary hypothesis was that the treatment effect is influenced by the presence of a corpus luteum (CL) at the first GnRH treatment (G1). Two experiments were conducted on 8 commercial dairy farms in Germany. Once a week, cows from both experiments were assigned in a consecutive manner to receive: (1) Ovsynch (control: GnRH; 7 d, PGF; 9 d, GnRH), (2) Ovsynch with a double PGF dose (GDPG: GnRH; 7 d, 2xPGF; 9 d, GnRH), or (3) Ovsynch with a second PGF treatment 24 h later (GPPG: GnRH; 7 d, PGF; 8 d, PGF; 32 h, GnRH). All cows received timed AI (TAI) approximately 16 h after G2. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed by transrectal palpation (38 ± 3 d after TAI, experiment 1) or transrectal ultrasonography (35 ± 7 d after TAI, experiment 2). Whereas farms from experiment 1 used a Presynch-Ovsynch protocol (PGF, 14 d later PGF, 12 d later GnRH, 7 d later PGF, 2 d later GnRH, and 16-18 h later TAI) to facilitate first postpartum TAI, no presynchronization protocol was used on farms from experiment 2. In experiment 1, we enrolled 1581 lactating dairy cows (60 experimental units) from 2 dairy farms. At G2, blood samples were collected from a subsample of cows (n = 491; 16 experimental units) to determine P4 concentration at G2. In experiment 2, we enrolled 1979 lactating dairy cows (252 experimental units) from 6 dairy farms. Transrectal ultrasonography was performed to determine the presence or absence of a CL at G1. In experiment 1, treatment affected P/AI (P = 0.01) and P/AI was greater for GDPG (38.2%) and GPPG (38.9%) than for control cows (29.8%). Both, GDPG and GPPG cows had decreased P4 concentration at G2 compared with control cows (P < 0.01). Whereas both treatments increased the percentage of cows with very low P4 concentration (0.00-0.09 ng/mL) at G2, only the GPPG treatment decreased the percentage of cows with high P4 concentration (≥0.6 ng/mL) at G2 compared to the control group. In experiment 2, P/AI was greater for GPPG (37.4%) than for control cows (31.0%; P = 0.03) and tended to be greater than for GDPG cows (31.8%; P = 0.05). Cows from the GDPG group had similar (P = 0.77) P/AI compared to the control group. Pregnancy per AI did not differ between cows with a CL at G1 and cows without a CL at G1 (34.1% vs. 32.6%; P = 0.50). There was no interaction between treatment and presence of a CL at G1 on P/AI (P = 0.61). Combining data from the 2 experiments but excluding cows from experiment 1 receiving presynchronization before first TAI (n = 2573; 312 experimental units), P/AI was greater for GPPG (40.3%; P < 0.01) than for control (31.8%) and GDPG cows (33.4%). Between GDPG and control cows, P/AI did not differ (P = 0.46). We conclude that overall the addition of a second PGF treatment on d 8 during a 7-d Ovsynch protocol increased P/AI compared to the traditional 7-d Ovsynch including a single PGF dose on d 7 and to a double PGF dose on d 7. Doubling the PGF dose on d 7 in a 7-d Ovsynch protocol did not affect P/AI. Use of a presynchronization protocol, however, seems to influence the effect of a dose frequency modification of PGF treatment in an Ovsynch protocol. Presynchronized cows receiving first postpartum TAI had similarly increased P/AI treated with a double PGF dose compared with treatment with a second PGF dose. Future studies need to elucidate whether the treatment effect is modified by presynchronization of the first postpartum TAI.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Tippenhauer
- Clinic for Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universitaet Berlin, Koenigsweg 65, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - I Steinmetz
- Clinic for Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universitaet Berlin, Koenigsweg 65, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - W Heuwieser
- Clinic for Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universitaet Berlin, Koenigsweg 65, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - P M Fricke
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin, Madison, 53706, United States
| | - M R Lauber
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin, Madison, 53706, United States
| | - E M Cabrera
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin, Madison, 53706, United States
| | - S Borchardt
- Clinic for Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universitaet Berlin, Koenigsweg 65, 14163, Berlin, Germany.
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8
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Smith MF, Geisert RD, Parrish JJ. Reproduction in domestic ruminants during the past 50 yr: discovery to application. J Anim Sci 2018; 96:2952-2970. [PMID: 29684167 PMCID: PMC6095338 DOI: 10.1093/jas/sky139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The study of reproductive physiology in domestic ruminants has progressed from the whole animal to the molecular level in an amazingly short period of time. The volume of information on this subject is enormous; therefore, we have focused on domestic ruminants, with an emphasis on cattle. To date, artificial insemination (AI) is perhaps the most powerful technique that reproductive physiologists and geneticists have provided the livestock industry for genetic improvement. Early efforts to establish AI as a tool were initiated in Russia around 1899 and since that time major advances in methods of semen collection, evaluation of male fertility, cryopreservation of sperm, sex-sorted semen, and estrous cycle control have occurred. The preceding advances not only led to the widespread use of AI, but also contributed to our fundamental understanding of ovulation control, timing of insemination, gamete biology, and cryopreservation. In regards to anestrus, our understanding of the concept of neuroendocrine control of the pituitary gland and the role of steroid feedback led to the Gonadostat Theory, which proposes that onset of puberty is due to a decrease in the negative feedback of gonadal steroids over time. Subsequent studies in prepuberal and postpartum sheep and cattle established that a short luteal phase frequently precedes the first normal length cycle that is accompanied by estrous expression. This observation led to the common practice of treating prepuberal heifers and anestrous postpartum cows with a short-term progestin treatment (e.g., Controlled Internal Drug Release) to induce normal estrous cycles. In domestic ruminants, fertilization rate is high (85% to 95%); however, significant embryonic mortality before or around the time of maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP) reduces the pregnancy rate to a single breeding. Significant effort has been directed at determining the time of MRP, the signal for MRP, as well as elucidating the physiological, cellular, and molecular dialogue between the conceptus and uterine environment. Advancements have now led us to the ability to edit the genome to alleviate disease and possibly improve production traits. In summary, major advancements in our understanding of reproductive biology have stemmed from efforts to establish the AI and embryo transfer technique and reduce the negative impact of anestrus and embryonic mortality in domestic ruminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael F Smith
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO
| | - Rodney D Geisert
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO
| | - John J Parrish
- Department of Animal Science, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
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9
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Fermin LM, Pain SJ, Morel PCH, Gedye KR, Kenyon PR, Blair HT. Effect of exogenous progesterone on embryo size and ewe uterine gene expression in an ovine 'dam size' model of maternal constraint. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 30:766-778. [PMID: 29157356 DOI: 10.1071/rd17096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Progesterone (P4), acting via its receptor, regulates uterine function and histotroph production, which are crucial to embryo growth. This study aimed to examine exogenous P4 effects on embryo size and differential endometrial gene expression at Day 19 of gestation using a 'dam size' sheep model of maternal constraint. Purebred Suffolk (S, genotypically large) embryos were transferred into recipient groups of Cheviot (C, genotypically small) or Suffolk ewes that had, or had not, been pre-treated with P4 from Days 0 to 6 of pregnancy. At Day 19S embryos were collected from four experimental groups: P4 pretreated S ewes (SP4; n=5), untreated S ewes (SnP4; n=15), P4 pretreated C ewes (CP4; n=7) and untreated C ewes (CnP4; n=21). Day-19 embryos from CP4 ewes were larger (P<0.05) than those from CnP4 ewes and similar in size (P>0.05) to embryos from SnP4 and SP4 ewes. Expression of mucin 1 (MUC1) and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2) was upregulated in uterine horns ipsilateral to the corpus luteum from CP4 ewes. Prostaglandin receptor (PGR), MUC1 and PTGS2 expression was upregulated, whilst cathepsin L (CTSL) and radical S-adenosyl methionine domain-containing 2 (RSAD2) expression was downregulated in the ipsilateral horn of SP4 ewes. This suggests that pretreating ewes with exogenous P4 may alleviate early pregnancy maternal constraint via mechanisms that alter uterine function. However, further research is required to investigate the timing of P4 administration and its impact on conception rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisanne M Fermin
- Institute of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
| | - Sarah J Pain
- Institute of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
| | - Patrick C H Morel
- Institute of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
| | - Kristene R Gedye
- Institute of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
| | - Paul R Kenyon
- Institute of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
| | - Hugh T Blair
- Institute of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
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Hansen TR, Sinedino LDP, Spencer TE. Paracrine and endocrine actions of interferon tau (IFNT). Reproduction 2017; 154:F45-F59. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Revised: 08/18/2017] [Accepted: 09/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
This review focuses on the paracrine and endocrine actions of interferon tau (IFNT) during pregnancy recognition and establishment in ruminants. Pregnancy recognition involves the suppression of the endometrial luteolytic mechanism by the conceptus to maintain progesterone production by the corpus luteum (CL). The paracrine antiluteolytic effects of conceptus-derived IFNT inhibit upregulation of oxytocin receptors in the endometrial epithelia of the uterus, thereby preventing the production of luteolytic prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2α) pulses. In the endometrium, IFNT induces or upregulates a large number of classical IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs) and regulates expression of many other genes in a cell-specific manner that are likely important for conceptus elongation, implantation and establishment of pregnancy. Further, IFNT has endocrine effects on extrauterine cells and tissues. In sheep, IFNT induces luteal resistance to PGF2α, thereby ensuring survival of the CL for maintenance of pregnancy. The ISGs induced in circulating peripheral blood mononuclear cells by IFNT may also be useful as an indicator of pregnancy status in cattle. An increased knowledge of IFNT and ISGs is important to improve the reproductive efficiency in ruminants.
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de Ruijter-Villani M, van Tol HTA, Stout TAE. Effect of pregnancy on endometrial expression of luteolytic pathway components in the mare. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 27:834-45. [PMID: 24679480 DOI: 10.1071/rd13381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2013] [Accepted: 01/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial oxytocin receptors (OXTR) and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2) are central components of the luteolytic pathway in cyclic mares, and their suppression is thought to be critical to luteal maintenance during early pregnancy. We examined the effect of pregnancy on endometrial expression of potential regulators of prostaglandin (PG) F2α secretion in mares. Expression of the nuclear progesterone receptor and oestrogen receptor ERα was high during oestrus, and depressed when progesterone was elevated; the opposite applied to the membrane progesterone receptor. PTGS2 was upregulated on Day 14 of dioestrus, but not pregnancy. Although OXTR mRNA expression was not elevated on Day 14 of dioestrus, protein abundance was; this increase in OXTR protein was absent on Day 14 of pregnancy. Intriguingly, gene and protein expression for PTGS2 and OXTR increased markedly between Days 14 and 21 of pregnancy suggesting that, although initial avoidance of luteolysis during pregnancy involves their suppression, this is a transient measure that delays rather than abolishes luteolytic pathway generation. The only oxytocin-PGF2α feedback loop component downregulated on both Days 14 and 21 of pregnancy was the PGF2α receptor we propose that downregulation of the PGF2α receptor uncouples the oxytocin-PGF2α feedback loop, thereby preventing generation of the large PGF2α pulses required for luteolysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M de Ruijter-Villani
- Department of Equine Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 112, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - H T A van Tol
- Department of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 104, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - T A E Stout
- Department of Equine Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 112, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Dilipkumar Verma A, Panigrahi M, Bhushan B, Baba NA, Sulabh S, Sadam A, Parida S, Sonwane AA, Narayanan K. Relative expression of oxytocin receptor gene in buffalo endometrium in late luteal phase and pregnancy stages. JOURNAL OF APPLIED ANIMAL RESEARCH 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/09712119.2016.1277531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Manjit Panigrahi
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, UP, India
| | - Bharat Bhushan
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, UP, India
| | - Naseer Ahmad Baba
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, UP, India
| | - Sourabh Sulabh
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, UP, India
| | - Abdul Sadam
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, UP, India
| | - Subhashree Parida
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, UP, India
| | - Arvind A. Sonwane
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, UP, India
| | - Krisnaswami Narayanan
- Division of Animal Reproduction, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, UP, India
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Say E, Çoban S, Nak Y, Nak D, Kara U, White S, Kasimanickam V, Kasimanickam R. Fertility of Holstein heifers after two doses of PGF2α in 5-day CO-Synch progesterone-based synchronization protocol. Theriogenology 2016; 86:988-993. [PMID: 27125698 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2015] [Revised: 01/03/2016] [Accepted: 03/17/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the study was to determine the effect of three different PGF2α (PGF) treatments in the 5-day CO-Synch progesterone-based synchronization protocol on artificial insemination (AI) pregnancy rate (PR) in Holstein heifers in Turkey and the United States. We hypothesized that two doses of PGF administered concurrently or 6 hours apart would result in greater AI pregnancy compared with a single dose of PGF on Day 5 at controlled internal drug release (CIDR) removal. In Turkey, Holstein heifers (n = 450) from one farm in the province of Adana and another farm in the province of Bursa were included. In the US, Holstein heifers (n = 483) from two locations in the state of Idaho were included. Heifers within locations were randomly allocated to one of three protocol groups: 1PGF-received 25 mg IM of dinoprost at CIDR removal; 2Co-PGF-received 50 mg IM of dinoprost at CIDR removal, and 2PGF-received 25 mg IM of dinoprost at CIDR removal and an additional 25 mg IM of dinoprost 6 hours later. All heifers received a CIDR (1.38 g of progesterone) and GnRH (10 μg IM of Buserelin [Turkey] or gonadorelin hydrochloride [US]) on Day 0. The CIDRs were removed on Day 5, and each heifer was given PGF according to the assigned treatments. On Day 7, each heifer was given another dose of GnRH and concurrently inseminated at 56 hours after CIDR removal. Heifers in both experiments were examined for pregnancy status between 35 and 45 days after AI. Overall, controlling for age, the heifers in the 2PGF group had greater AI-PR (61.7% [192/311]) than heifers in 2Co-PGF (48.2% [149/309]; P < 0.001) or 1PGF (53.7% [168/313]; P < 0.05) groups. No difference was observed between 2Co-PGF and 1PGF groups (P > 0.1). In Turkey, the heifers in the 2PGF group had a greater AI-PR (60% [90/150]) than 2Co-PGF (45.3% (68/150); P < 0.01] group. No difference was observed between 2PGF and 1PGF (55.3% [83/150]) groups (P > 0.1). There was a trend for AI pregnancy between 1PGF and 2Co-PGF groups (P = 0.08). In the United States, the heifers in the 2PGF group had a greater AI-PR (63.4% [102/161]) than the heifers in 2PGF (50.9 [81/159]; P < 0.05) or 1PGF (52.1% [85/163]; P < 0.05) groups. Heifers that were 15- and 16-month old achieved greater AI-PR than 17- and 18-month-old heifers (59.2 [342/578] vs. 47.0% [168/355]; P < 0.01). In conclusion, administration of 2PGF at 6 hours apart on Day 5 at CIDR removal in a 5-day CO-Synch + CIDR protocol resulted in greater AI pregnancy. A greater number of 15- and 16-month-old heifers became pregnant compared with 17- and 18-month-old heifers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erkan Say
- Eastern Mediterranean Agriculture Research Institute, Yüreğir, Adana, Turkey
| | - Serdal Çoban
- Eastern Mediterranean Agriculture Research Institute, Yüreğir, Adana, Turkey
| | - Yavuz Nak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Uludag University, Gorukle, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Deniz Nak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Uludag University, Gorukle, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Uğur Kara
- Eastern Mediterranean Agriculture Research Institute, Yüreğir, Adana, Turkey
| | - Stephanie White
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Vanmathy Kasimanickam
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Ramanathan Kasimanickam
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA.
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Spencer TE, Hansen TR. Implantation and Establishment of Pregnancy in Ruminants. REGULATION OF IMPLANTATION AND ESTABLISHMENT OF PREGNANCY IN MAMMALS 2015; 216:105-35. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-15856-3_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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15
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Bazer FW, Song G, Thatcher WW. Roles of conceptus secretory proteins in establishment and maintenance of pregnancy in ruminants. ASIAN-AUSTRALASIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCES 2014; 25:1-16. [PMID: 25049471 PMCID: PMC4092924 DOI: 10.5713/ajas.2011.r.08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Reproduction in ruminant species is a highly complex biological process requiring a dialogue between the developing conceptus (embryo-fetus and associated placental membranes) and maternal uterus which must be established during the peri-implantation period for pregnancy recognition signaling and regulation of gene expression by uterine epithelial and stromal cells. The uterus provide a microenvironment in which molecules secreted by uterine epithelia and transported into the uterine lumen represent histotroph, also known as the secretome, that are required for growth and development of the conceptus and receptivity of the uterus to implantation by the elongating conceptus. Pregnancy recognition signaling as related to sustaining the functional lifespan of the corpora lutea, is required to sustain the functional life-span of corpora lutea for production of progesterone which is essential for uterine functions supportive of implantation and placentation required for successful outcomes of pregnancy. It is within the peri-implantation period that most embryonic deaths occur in ruminants due to deficiencies attributed to uterine functions or failure of the conceptus to develop appropriately, signal pregnancy recognition and/or undergo implantation and placentation. The endocrine status of the pregnant ruminant and her nutritional status are critical for successful establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. The challenge is to understand the complexity of key mechanisms that are characteristic of successful reproduction in humans and animals and to use that knowledge to enhance fertility and reproductive health of ruminant species in livestock enterprises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuller W Bazer
- Department of Animal Science and Center for Animal Biotechnology and Genomics, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843-2471, USA ; WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, 599 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 151-921, Korea
| | - Gwonhwa Song
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, 599 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 151-921, Korea
| | - William W Thatcher
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611-0691, USA
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Rantala MH, Mutikainen M, Schuler G, Katila T, Taponen J. Endometrial expression of progesterone, estrogen, and oxytocin receptors and of 20α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and cyclooxygenase II 2 and 5 days after ovulation in induced short and normal estrous cycles in dairy cows. Theriogenology 2014; 81:1181-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2013] [Revised: 12/30/2013] [Accepted: 01/16/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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17
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Mlynarczuk J, Wrobel M, Kotwica J. The orphan nuclear receptor SF-1 is involved in the effect of PCBs, DDT, and DDE on the secretion of steroid hormones and oxytocin from bovine luteal cells during the estrous cycle in vitro. Theriogenology 2014; 81:877-86. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2013] [Revised: 01/19/2014] [Accepted: 01/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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18
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Młynarczuk J, Wróbel MH, Kotwica J. Adverse influence of coumestrol on secretory function of bovine luteal cells in the first trimester of pregnancy. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2013; 28:411-418. [PMID: 21656645 DOI: 10.1002/tox.20735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2010] [Revised: 04/22/2011] [Accepted: 04/30/2011] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Coumestrol is one of a few biologically active substances present in leguminous plants, which are widely used as fodder for ruminants. Depending on the doses, coumestrol acts on the reproductive processes as an estrogen-like factor or antiestrogen to evoke a decrease in ovulation frequency, elongation of estrous cycle duration. The aim of the current investigations was to study the influence of coumestrol on secretory function of luteal cells obtained from first trimester of pregnant cows. Luteal cells (2.5 × 10(5) /mL) from 3rd to 5th, 6th to 8th, and 9th to 12th week of pregnancy were preincubated for 24 h and incubated with coumestrol (1 × 10(-6) M) for successive 48 h and the medium concentrations of progesterone (P4), oxytocin (OT), prostaglandin (PG) E2 and F2α were determined. Moreover, the expression of mRNA for neurophysin-I/oxytocin (NP-I/OT; precursor of OT) and peptidyl-glycine-α-amidating mono-oxygenase (PGA, an enzyme responsible for post-translational OT synthesis) was determined after 8 h of treatment. Coumestrol did not affect P4 secretion but increased the secretion of OT from the cells collected at all stages of gestation studied. Hence, the ratio of P4 to OT was markedly decreased. Simultaneously, coumestrol increased the expression of NP-I/OT mRNA during 9th to 12th weeks of pregnancy, and mRNA for PGA during 3rd to 5th and 9th to 12th weeks of gestation. Furthermore, coumestrol decreased PGE2 secretion from luteal cells in all studied stages of pregnancy, while it affected PGF2α metabolite (PGFM) concentration only from week 3 to 5 of pregnancy. Obtained results suggest that coumestrol impairs secretory function of the corpus luteum (CL) and this way it can affect the maintenance of pregnancy in the cow.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Młynarczuk
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
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19
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Wolfenson D, Bartol FF, Badinga L, Barros CM, Marple DN, Cummins K, Wolfe D, Lucy MC, Spencer TE, Thatcher WW. Secretion of PGF2alpha and oxytocin during hyperthermia in cyclic and pregnant heifers. Theriogenology 2012; 39:1129-41. [PMID: 16727282 DOI: 10.1016/0093-691x(93)90012-t] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/1992] [Accepted: 10/20/1992] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The effects of acute heat stress (HS) and oxytocin (OT) injection on plasma concentrations of PGF2alpha and OT were examined in cyclic (C; n = 15) and pregnant (P; n = 11) dairy heifers. On Day 17 of synchronized estrous cycles, animals were randomly assigned to either thermoneutral (TN; 20 degrees C, 20% RH) or HS (42 degrees C, 60% RH) chambers. The jugular vein of each heifer was cannulated and blood samples collected hourly for 4 h, then every 15 min for an additional 3 h. Oxytocin (100 IU) was injected (IV) 5 h after the start of blood collection. Plasma samples were assayed subsequently for concentrations of 13,14-dihydro-15-keto PGF2alpha (PGFM) and OT. During the 7-h experiment, body temperature of HS heifers reached 41.2 degrees C as compared to 38.5 degrees C in control heifers. Plasma concentrations of PGFM increased (P<0.05) and peaked 30 min after OT injection in C (890 pg/ml) and P (540 pg/ml) heifers. In C heifers, heat stress failed to alter PGFM concentrations either before or after OT injection. In the P group, PGFM concentrations following OT injection tended to be higher in HS heifers were further TN heifers (peak values of 690 vs. 410 pg/ml). Pregnant TN and HS heifers were further classified as responders or non-responders to OT challenge according to a cutoff value for PGFM of 193 pg/ml (overall mean of C heifers minus 1 SD). Five of six HS and one of five TN pregnant heifers were classified as responders (P<0.06). Oxytocin concentrations in plasma prior to injection of exogenous OT were not affected by HS or pregnancy status. It is concluded that in C heifers, acute HS in vivo does not cause any further rise in PGF2alpha secretion. However, in P heifers, HS appears to antagonize suppressive effects of the embryo on uterine secretion of PGF2alpha, as indicated by the larger proportion of P heifers responding to OT challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Wolfenson
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture Hebrew University, Rehovot 76100, Israel
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Shabankareh HK, Seyedhashemi SB, Torki M, Kelidari H, Abdolmohammadi A. Effects of repeated administration of hCG on follicular and luteal characteristics and serum progesterone concentrations in eCG-superovulated Sanjabi ewes. Trop Anim Health Prod 2012; 44:1865-71. [DOI: 10.1007/s11250-012-0149-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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McCracken JA, Custer EE, Schreiber DT, Tsang PCW, Keator CS, Arosh JA. A new in vivo model for luteolysis using systemic pulsatile infusions of PGF(2α). Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2012; 97:90-6. [PMID: 22300963 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2012.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2011] [Revised: 12/06/2011] [Accepted: 01/12/2012] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
A new in vivo model for studying luteolysis was developed in sheep to provide a convenient method for collecting corpora lutea for molecular, biochemical, and histological analysis during a procedure that mimics natural luteolysis. It was found that the infusion of prostaglandin F(2α) (PGF(2α)) at 20 μg/min/h into the systemic circulation during the mid luteal phase of the cycle allowed sufficient PGF(2α) to escape across the lungs and thus mimic the transient 40% decline in the concentration of progesterone in peripheral plasma seen at the onset of natural luteolysis in sheep. Additional 1h-long systemic infusions of PGF(2α), given at physiological intervals, indicated that two infusions were not sufficient to induce luteolysis. However, an early onset of luteolysis and estrus was induced in one out of three sheep with three infusions, two out of three sheep with four infusions, and three out of three sheep with five infusions. Reducing the duration of each systemic infusion of PGF(2α) from 1h to 30 min failed to induce luteolysis and estrus even after six systemic infusions indicating that, not only are the amplitude and frequency of PGF(2α) pulses essential for luteolysis, but the actual duration of each pulse is also critical. We conclude that a minimum of five systemic pulses of PGF(2α), given in an appropriate amount and at a physiological frequency and duration, are required to mimic luteolysis consistently in all sheep. The five pulse regimen thus provides a new accurate in vivo model for studying molecular mechanisms of luteolysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A McCracken
- Department of Animal Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269-4040, USA.
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Pugliesi G, Beg MA, Carvalho GR, Ginther OJ. Induction of PGFM pulses and luteolysis by sequential estradiol-17β treatments in heifers. Theriogenology 2011; 77:492-506. [PMID: 22119513 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2011] [Revised: 08/09/2011] [Accepted: 08/10/2011] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
The effects of sequential induction of PGFM pulses by estradiol-17β (E2) on prominence of PGFM pulses and progesterone (P4) concentration were studied in heifers. Three treatments of vehicle (n = 12) or E2 (n = 12) at doses of 0.05 or 0.1 mg were given at 12-h intervals beginning on Day 15 postovulation. Blood samples were collected every 12 h from Days 13-24 and hourly for 12 h after the first and third treatments. On Day 15, all heifers were in preluteolysis and on Day 16 were in preluteolysis in the vehicle-treated heifers (n = 11) and either preluteolysis (n = 4) or luteolysis (n = 8) in the E2-treated heifers. Peak concentration of induced PGFM pulses during preluteolysis on Day 15 was greater (P < 0.04) than for pulses during preluteolysis on Day 16. The interval from ovulation to the beginning of luteolysis was shorter (P < 0.04) in the E2-treated heifers than in the vehicle-treated heifers. An E2-induced PGFM pulse was less prominent (P < 0.008) in heifers in temporal association with a transient resurgence in P4 than in heifers with a progressive P4 decrease. The hypothesis that repeated E2 exposure stimulates increasing prominence of PGFM pulses was not supported. Instead, repeated exposure reduced the prominence of PGFM pulses, in contrast to the stimulation from the first E2 treatment. Reduced prominence of a PGF(2α) pulse during luteolysis can lead to a transient resurgence in P4 concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Pugliesi
- Eutheria Foundation, Cross Plains, Wisconsin, USA
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Mlynarczuk J, Wrobel MH, Kotwica J. Effect of environmental pollutants on oxytocin synthesis and secretion from corpus luteum and on contractions of uterus from pregnant cows. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2010; 247:243-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2010.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2010] [Revised: 07/02/2010] [Accepted: 07/06/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Lee J, McCracken JA, Banu SK, Rodriguez R, Nithy TK, Arosh JA. Transport of prostaglandin F(2alpha) pulses from the uterus to the ovary at the time of luteolysis in ruminants is regulated by prostaglandin transporter-mediated mechanisms. Endocrinology 2010; 151:3326-35. [PMID: 20410207 DOI: 10.1210/en.2009-0948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In ruminants, prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF(2alpha)) is the uterine luteolytic hormone. During luteolysis, PGF(2alpha) is synthesized and released from the endometrium in a pulsatile pattern. The unique structure of the vascular utero-ovarian plexus (UOP) allows transport of luteolytic PGF(2alpha) pulses directly from the uterus to the ovary, thus bypassing the systemic circulation. However, the underlying molecular mechanism is not known. The objective of the present study was to determine a role for PG transporter protein (PGT) in the compartmental transport of PGF(2alpha) from uterus to ovary through the UOP at the time of luteolysis using the sheep as a ruminant model. [(3)H]PGF(2alpha), with or without a PGT inhibitor, was infused into UOP, and PGF(2alpha) transport and PGT protein expression were determined. Results indicate that PGT protein is expressed in tunica intima, tunica media, and tunica adventitia of the utero-ovarian vein and the ovarian artery of the UOP, and the expression levels are higher on d 10-15 compared with d 3-6 of the estrous cycle. Pharmacological inhibition of PGT prevented transport of exogenous [(3)H]PGF(2alpha) as well as oxytocin-induced endogenous luteolytic PGF(2alpha) pulse up to 80% from uterine venous blood into ovarian arterial blood through the UOP at the time of luteolysis in sheep. Taken together, these results indicate that at the time of luteolysis, transport of PGF(2alpha) from uterus to ovary through the UOP is regulated by PGT-mediated mechanisms. These findings also suggest that impaired PGT-mediated transport of PGF(2alpha) from the utero-ovarian vein into the ovarian artery could adversely influence luteolysis and thus affect fertility in ruminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- JeHoon Lee
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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Whittier WD, Kasimanickam RK, Currin JF, Schramm HH, Vlcek M. Effect of timing of second prostaglandin F 2 alpha administration in a 5-day, progesterone-based CO-Synch protocol on AI pregnancy rates in beef cows. Theriogenology 2010; 74:1002-9. [PMID: 20580078 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.04.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2009] [Revised: 04/20/2010] [Accepted: 04/25/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The objective was to compare the timed AI pregnancy rate of Angus-cross beef cows synchronized with a 5-d CO-Synch + CIDR (a progesterone-releasing intravaginal insert) protocol and given two doses of PGF(2 alpha) (PGF), with the first dose in conjunction with CIDR withdrawal on Day 5, and the second dose given either early or late relative to the first dose. All cows (N = 1782) at 16 locations received 100 microg of GnRH + CIDR on Day 0. Cows received 25 mg of PGF concurrent with removal of the CIDR on Day 5, and were randomly allocated within locations to receive a second PGF either early (N = 881; from 0.5 to 3.9 h) or late (N = 901; from 4.5 to 8.15 h) relative to the first PGF treatment. On Day 8 (72 h after CIDR removal), all cows were inseminated and concurrently given 100 microg of GnRH. Cows were fitted with a pressure-sensitive mount detection device (Kamar) at CIDR removal. Cows were observed twice daily through Day 7 and at the time of AI on Day 8 for estrus and Kamar status (estrus - red, partial and lost Kamar versus no estrus - white Kamar) was recorded. Accounting for location, season, AI sire, cow observed in estrus or not at or before timed AI, and treatment by cows observed in estrus interaction, timed AI pregnancy rates were greater for the late (6.45 +/- 0.03 h) than the early (2.25 +/- 0.05 h) interval, 57.2 vs. 52.7%, respectively (P < 0.05). In conclusion, cows that received the second PGF late after the first PGF on the day of CIDR removal in a 5 d CO-Synch + CIDR synchronization protocol had significantly higher timed AI pregnancy rates than those receiving the second PGF early after the first PGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- W D Whittier
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061
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BETTERIDGE KJ, RENARD A, GOFF AK. Uterine prostaglandin release relative to embryo collection, transfer procedures and maintenance of the corpus luteum. Equine Vet J 2010. [DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.1985.tb04587.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Ginther OJ, Shrestha HK, Fuenzalida MJ, Shahiduzzaman AKM, Beg MA. Characteristics of pulses of 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin f2alpha before, during, and after spontaneous luteolysis and temporal intrapulse relationships with progesterone concentrations in cattle. Biol Reprod 2010; 82:1049-56. [PMID: 20147732 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.109.081976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulses of the prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF) metabolite 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGF (PGFM) were compared among heifers that were in the preluteolytic, luteolytic, and postluteolytic periods (n = 7 or 8 heifers/period). Hourly blood sampling was done in 18-h sessions 15, 16, or 17 days after ovulation. Hourly sampling and statistical identification of a PGFM pulse allowed novel comparisons of PGFM pulses among the three periods. Each period had a similar number of PGFM pulses (2.3 +/- 0.2). The pulses were more prominent during the luteolytic period than during the other periods, as indicated by significantly greater concentration for the peak and amplitude between nadir and peak. Significantly more fluctuations that did not meet the definition of a pulse occurred at the beginning of the preluteolytic period and end of the postluteolytic period than during the luteolytic period. The same nadir ended a pulse and began the next pulse in 85% of adjacent pulses. Seven heifers were selected objectively, based on a progesterone concentration >5 ng/ml at Hour -3 (Hour 0 = peak of PGFM pulse) and a progressive decrease in progesterone from Hours -3 to 0. Progesterone increased (P < 0.03) between Hours 0 and 1, remained at a mean plateau at Hours 1 and 2, and then decreased. Results support the hypothesis of a transient intrapulse rebound in progesterone during an individual PGFM pulse, but only during the first portion of luteolysis. These findings should be considered in future proposals on the mechanisms involved in the effects of PGF on progesterone concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- O J Ginther
- Eutheria Foundation, Cross Plains, Wisconsin, USA.
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Araujo RR, Ginther O, Ferreira JC, Palhão MM, Beg MA, Wiltbank MC. Role of follicular estradiol-17beta in timing of luteolysis in heifers. Biol Reprod 2009; 81:426-37. [PMID: 19264702 PMCID: PMC2849814 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.073825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2008] [Revised: 10/21/2008] [Accepted: 02/24/2009] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypothesis was tested that estradiol (E2) from the ovarian follicles controls time of luteolysis. Time of luteolysis was evaluated by multiple measures of corpus luteum (CL) structure (area, volume) and function (progesterone [P4], luteal blood flow). The hypothesis for experiment 1 was that repeated ablation of follicles would reduce circulating E2 and delay luteolysis. Heifers were randomly assigned on Day 9 (Day 0 = ovulation) to three groups. All follicles >or=4 mm were ablated on Day 9 (group FA9; n = 6); Days 9-15 (group FA15; n = 6); or Days 9-21 (group FA21; n = 7). As expected, follicular ablation delayed (P < 0.001) the rise in circulating E2 and peak E2 concentrations (FA9, Day 17.6 +/- 0.7; FA15, Day 20.3 +/- 0.3; FA21, Day 24.9 +/- 0.3). Luteolysis (based on each measure) was delayed (P < 0.005) by repeated ablation of follicles, with earlier luteolysis (based on P4 decrease) in FA9 (Day 15.2 +/- 0.8) than FA15 (Day 16.5 +/- 0.4), and a further delay in FA21 (Day 18.3 +/- 0.5). The hypothesis of experiment 2 was that exogenous treatment with E2 would stimulate prostaglandin F(2alpha) (PGF) secretion and prevent the delay in luteolysis associated with follicular ablations. Follicles >or=4 mm were ablated from Day 9 to Day 17 (n = 15). Heifers were treated on Days 13 and 15 with 1.0 mg of estradiol benzoate (FAE2; n = 7) or vehicle (FAV; n = 8). Treatment with E2 induced PGF secretion (detected by PGF metabolite) and induced earlier (P < 0.02) luteolysis in FAE2 than in FAV, whether determined by circulating P4 or by area, volume, or blood flow of CL. In summary, ablation of follicles (>or=4 mm) delayed and treatment with E2 hastened luteolysis in heifers with ablated follicles. Thus, these results are consistent with an essential role for follicle E2 in timing of luteolysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reno R. Araujo
- Department of Dairy Science, Department of Pathobiological Sciences, and Endocrinology-Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
- Eutheria Foundation, Cross Plains, Wisconsin
| | - O.J. Ginther
- Department of Dairy Science, Department of Pathobiological Sciences, and Endocrinology-Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
- Eutheria Foundation, Cross Plains, Wisconsin
| | | | | | - Mohd A. Beg
- Department of Dairy Science, Department of Pathobiological Sciences, and Endocrinology-Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
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The effect of the spring management system on blood metabolites and luteal function of ewes on Mediterranean mountain areas. Small Rumin Res 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2009.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Ginther OJ, Siddiqui MAR, Beg MA. Progesterone responses to intravenous and intrauterine infusions of prostaglandin F2α in mares. Reprod Fertil Dev 2009; 21:688-95. [DOI: 10.1071/rd09019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2009] [Accepted: 04/02/2009] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypotheses were tested that prostaglandin F2α (PGF) travels from the uterus to the ovaries via a systemic route in mares, as opposed to a local route in ruminants, and that one pulse of PGF produces only partial luteolysis. Intravenous (i.v.) and intrauterine (i.u.) infusions of PGF were performed 8 days after ovulation at a constant rate for 2 h. Plasma concentrations of PGF were assessed by assay of 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGF2α (PGFM). Total doses administered were as follows: 0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.5 and 1.0 mg, i.v., PGF and 0 and 0.5 mg, i.u., PGF (n = 4 mares per group). In addition, PGFM concentrations were determined for natural pulses from samples collected each hour during luteolysis (n = 5). Progesterone was similarly reduced by 4 days after treatment in the 0.5 mg i.v., 0.5 mg i.u. and 0.0 mg i.u. groups. The area under the PGFM curve in the 0.1 mg i.v. group was similar to the area for natural PGFM pulses. Progesterone decreased to a similar concentration by 12 h in the 0.1, 0.5 and 1.0 mg i.v. groups, but thereafter was greater (P < 0.05) in the 0.1 mg i.v. group. Progesterone concentrations reached <2 ng mL–1 6 days after treatment in the 0.05 and 0.1 mg i.v. groups and 2 days after treatment in the 0.5 and 1.0 mg i.v. groups. The results support the hypotheses of a systemic uteroluteal route for PGF transfer and that one pulse produces only partial luteolysis in mares.
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Kaneko K, Kawakami S. The roles of PGF(2alpha) and PGE(2) in regression of the corpus luteum after intrauterine infusion of Arcanobacterium pyogenes in cows. Theriogenology 2008; 71:858-63. [PMID: 19095297 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2008.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2008] [Revised: 10/02/2008] [Accepted: 10/19/2008] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
To study the effect of bacteria in the uterus on the fate of the corpus luteum (CL), Arcanobacterium pyogenes was inoculated into the uteri of cows on Day 3 (Day 0=day of spontaneous ovulation). Plasma concentrations of 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGF(2alpha) (PGFM), 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGE(2) (PGEM) and progesterone (P(4)) were determined. In five cows, the developing CL regressed and first-wave dominant follicles, which normally become atretic, ovulated (Group OV) after bacterial inoculation. In another five cows (Group NOV) and five control cows, the developing CL did not regress and first-wave dominant follicles did not ovulate. In Group OV, PGFM concentrations increased by 126.2pg/mL (from 36.8+/-7.8pg/mL on Day 3 to 163+/-37.2pg/mL on Day 6), with an increase ratio of 5.8-fold. Conversely, in Group NOV, PGFM had a greater increase of 198.4pg/mL (from 128.2+/-27.8pg/mL on Day 3 to 326.6+/-115.1pg/mL on Day 5), but the increase ratio was only 2.3-fold. Although PGEM tended to increase in both groups, raw increases and increase ratios were small. Bacterial inoculation into the uterus stimulated the release of prostaglandins and affected the fate of the CL; in that regard, the CL was affected more by PGF(2alpha) than by PGE(2), and the increase ratio of PGF(2alpha) was more important than the raw increase.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Kaneko
- Department of Veterinary Obstetrics and Gynecology, Azabu University, 1-17-71, Fuchinobe, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 229-8501, Japan.
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Ginther OJ, Araujo RR, Palhão MP, Rodrigues BL, Beg MA. Necessity of sequential pulses of prostaglandin F2alpha for complete physiologic luteolysis in cattle. Biol Reprod 2008; 80:641-8. [PMID: 19073999 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.072769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The luteolytic effects of exogenous prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF) that did and did not simulate natural 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGF (PGFM) pulses were studied during mid-diestrus in 42 Holstein heifers. Plasma concentrations of PGF were assessed by assay of PGFM. In experiment 1, a single intrauterine injection of 4.0 mg of PGF into the uterine horn ipsilateral to the corpus luteum resulted in a precipitous progesterone decline, whereas sequential injections of 0.25 or 1.0 mg every 12 h resulted in a stepwise decrease (P < 0.05) following each injection. A progesterone increase occurred during the first 5 min before the luteolytic decrease but only for the 4.0-mg dose. From the results of experiment 2, a 2-h intrauterine infusion of a total of 0.5 mg of PGF was judged to best simulate a natural PGFM pulse. In experiment 3, simulation of sequential pulses at 12-h intervals resulted in a continuous precipitous decrease in progesterone to <1 ng/ml by the beginning of the fourth simulated pulse. In contrast, a single simulated pulse resulted in a 6-h progesterone decrease to a constant concentration for 3 days after treatment, followed by a return to control concentrations. The mean +/- SEM interval between the pretreatment and posttreatment ovulations was shorter (P < 0.05) in the group with sequential simulated pulses (14 +/- 1 day) than in the group with a single pulse (21 +/- 1 day). Results indicated that excessive PGF doses may stimulate nonphysiologic progesterone responses and supported the hypothesis that sequential PGF pulses are required to stimulate natural luteolysis in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- O J Ginther
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, [corrected] USA. [corrected]
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Shirasuna K, Yamamoto D, Morota K, Shimizu T, Matsui M, Miyamoto A. Prostaglandin F 2 alpha stimulates endothelial nitric oxide synthase depending on the existence of bovine granulosa cells: analysis by co-culture system of endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells and granulosa cells. Reprod Domest Anim 2008; 43:592-8. [PMID: 18507797 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2007.00957.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Prostaglandin F(2 alpha) (PGF(2 alpha)) induces luteolysis in the mid but not in the early luteal phase; despite this, both the early and the mid corpus luteum (CL) have PGF(2 alpha) receptor (FPr). We previously indicated that the luteal blood flow surrounding the CL drastically increases prior to a decrease of progesterone (P) in the cows, suggesting that an acute increase of luteal blood flow may be an early sign of luteolysis in response to PGF(2 alpha) and that this may be induced by a vasorelaxant nitric oxide (NO). The aim of this study was to investigate the luteal stage-dependent and the site-restricted effect of PGF(2 alpha) and NO on the mRNA expressions and P secretion. To mimic the local luteal region both of peripheral and central areas of the CL, we utilized co-cultures using bovine aorta endothelial cells (EC), smooth muscle cells (SMC) and luteinizing granulosa cells (GC) or fully-luteinized GC. PGF(2 alpha) stimulated the expression of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) mRNA at 0.5 h in mix-cultures of EC and SMC with fully-luteinized GC but not with luteinizing GC. The expression of eNOS mRNA in EC was increased by PGF(2 alpha) at 1 h only when EC was cultured together with fully-luteinized GC but not with luteinizing GC. In all co-cultures, PGF(2 alpha) did not affect the mRNA expression of FPr. Treatment of NO donor inhibited P secretion at 0.5 h. In conclusion, the present study suggests that the coexistence of the mature luteal cells (fully-luteinized GC) with EC/SMC may be crucial for acquiring functional NO synthesis induced by PGF(2 alpha).
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Affiliation(s)
- K Shirasuna
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
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Krzymowski T, Stefańczyk-Krzymowska S. The role of the endometrium in endocrine regulation of the animal oestrous cycle. Reprod Domest Anim 2008; 43:80-91. [PMID: 18199263 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2007.00859.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A critical analysis of the results of research in the function of the endometrium was carried out and a view point presented. The role of the endometrium in endocrine regulation of the oestrus cycle can be summarized as follows: 1. The transfer of prostaglandin F(2alpha) (PGF(2alpha)) from the uterus to an ovary, which causes luteolysis, occurs mainly via the lymphatic pathways. 2. The system of retrograde transfer of PGs enables PGF(2alpha) and PGE(2) to reach the myometrium and endometrium with arterial blood at high concentration. In the luteal phase, PGF(2alpha), together with the increasing concentration of progesterone, constricts the arterial vessels of the uterus; in the follicular phase and in early pregnancy, PGE(2) together with oestrogen and embryonic signals, relaxes the arterial vessels. In addition, this system protects the corpus luteum from premature luteolysis during the cycle and luteolysis during early pregnancy. 3. In days 10-12 of the cycle, the blood flow in the uterus decreases by 60-70% in pigs and around 90% in sheep. This causes ischaemia and local hypoxia confirmed by the presence of hypoxia inducible factor and thus remodelling of the endometrium commences. 4. The pulsatile elevations in PGF(2alpha) concentration occurring in the blood flowing out of the uterus during the period of luteolysis and the next few days, do not result from increased PGF(2alpha) synthesis as suggested in numerous studies. They are the effect of excretion of PGF(2alpha) and its metabolites together with lymph and venous blood and tissue fluids in which prostaglandin accumulates.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Krzymowski
- Department of Local Physiological Regulations, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
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Shirasuna K, Watanabe S, Yamamoto D, Hayashi M, Nagai K, Miyamoto A. Bovine endothelial cells interact with fully-luteinized, but not luteinizing, granulosa cells in the mRNA expression of endothelin-1 system in response to prostaglandin F(2alpha). Reprod Domest Anim 2008; 42:637-42. [PMID: 17976072 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2006.00835.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The corpus luteum (CL) undergoes regression by prostaglandin (PG)F(2alpha) from uterus and endothelin-1 (ET-1) plays an important role during luteolysis as a local mediator of PGF(2alpha) in the cow. Endothelial cells (EC) and luteal cells are main cell types making up the CL and their interactions are vital for CL function. We aimed to examine the relevance of interactions between EC and luteal cells on stimulation of genes which involved ET-1 synthesis by PGF(2alpha). We further focused the impact of maturity of luteal cells on the stimulation of the genes. To make a microenvironment which resembles the CL, we used bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAEC) and luteinizing or fully-luteinized granulosa cells (GC) and evaluated the effect of PGF(2alpha) on the expression for mRNA of ET-1 system by using real-time RT-PCR. PGF(2alpha) stimulated the expression of preproET-1 and endothelin converting enzyme-1 mRNA only in the co-cultures of BAEC with fully-luteinized GC, but not with luteinizing GC. The data suggest that interactions between BAEC and fully-luteinized GC enhance the capability of BAEC to produce ET-1 in response to PGF(2alpha). This mechanism may contribute to the local induction of luteolytic action of PGF(2alpha) which is dependent on the age/maturation of the CL.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Shirasuna
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
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36
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SHIRASUNA K, MATSUI M, SHIMIZU T, MIYAMOTO A. Local mechanisms for luteolysis in the cow: Novel roles of vasoactive substances in the luteolytic cascade within the corpus luteum. Anim Sci J 2007. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1740-0929.2007.00463.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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37
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Powell SA, Smith BB, Timm KI, Menino AR. Expression of estrogen receptors α and β in the corpus luteum and uterus from non-pregnant and pregnant llamas. Mol Reprod Dev 2007; 74:1043-52. [PMID: 17219432 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Because estrogen may be involved in maternal recognition of pregnancy and embryonic migration in llamas, expression of estrogen receptor subtypes alpha (ERalpha) and beta (ERbeta) was evaluated in corpus luteum (CL), endometrium, and uterus using relative RT-PCR. Tissues were recovered from sterile-mated (SM) and pregnant (PG) females during Days 7-11 and 7-13 (Day 0 = day of mating), respectively, and follicular phase and juvenile females. Luteal expression of ERalpha and beta was similar (P > 0.10) in SM and PG females and within Days 7-11, however, expression of ERalpha in ovarian tissue from follicular phase females was greater (P < 0.05) than Days 7 and 9 CL. Uterus expressed less ERalpha and beta compared to endometrium (P = 0.07 and P < 0.01, respectively). Expression of ERalpha was greater (P < 0.05) in Day 7 and follicular phase uteri than Days 9 and 11, Day 13 PG and juvenile uteri. Uterine ERbeta expression was greater (P = 0.09) in PG versus SM females and in mated compared to follicular phase females (P < 0.05). Endometrial expression of ERalpha and beta did not differ (P > 0.10) between SM and PG females or by day. The presence of luteal ER during this period may mean a role for estradiol in maternal recognition of pregnancy. Observed increases in uterine ER expression with no changes in endometrium suggest expression increased in myometrium and/or perimetrium. Upregulation of myometrial ERbeta in PG females may be involved in supporting uterine migration of the embryo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan A Powell
- Department of Animal Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331-6702, USA
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Gabai G, Mollo A, Marinelli L, Badan M, Bono G. Endocrine and Ovarian Responses to Prolonged Adrenal Stimulation at the Time of Induced Corpus Luteum Regression. Reprod Domest Anim 2006; 41:485-93. [PMID: 17107506 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2006.00697.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The endocrine and ovarian responses to prolonged adrenal stimulation at the time of corpus luteum (CL) regression were studied in non-lactating non-pregnant Friesian cows. Cows were synchronized with two cloprostenol (PG) injections 11 days apart (second PG referred as time 0). Experiment 1 was carried out on five animals in two phases with a resting period in between. Between -48 and 84 h, animals received 12 injections of either saline (CTR) or adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) agonist (Synacthen; SYN) every 12 h. Cortisol (C), progesterone (P4), oestradiol (E2) and LH were analysed in the blood samples collected every 8-12 h between days -3 and 4. Pulsatile LH release was studied 4 h before and 4 h after naloxone administration beginning at 96 h. Experiment 2 was carried out on four cows in a cross-over experimental design (two phases, with a resting period in between). Treatments were performed by administering either saline (CTR) or Synacthen (SYN) every 12 h between -36 and 24 h. The concentrations of C, P4 and E2 were measured in blood plasma every 4-12 h from days -3 to 3, then every day from days 5 to 9. In both experiments, ovaries were examined by ultrasonography every 1-3 days. ACTH administration induced a significant increase (p < 0.001) of plasma C lasting for 7 days (experiment 1), and for 3-4 days (experiment 2). Plasma C returned to baseline levels within 6 days (expt 1) or 36 h (expt 2) after treatment interruption. During the SYN phase, LH pre-ovulatory surge was not detectable. During the CTR phase, naloxone administration induced a significant increase (p < 0.05) of average LH concentrations that was not evident during the SYN phase. The dominant follicle development was retarded and mean plasma E2 concentrations were significantly lower during the SYN phase (p < 0.01). Luteolysis was completed within 2 days. However, P4 decline between 0 and 4 h was slower (p < 0.01) during the SYN phase. Our results indicate that, under prolonged adrenal stimulation, follicular development is delayed and LH release is impaired, which are independent of CL function.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Gabai
- Dipartimento di Scienze Sperimentali Veterinarie, Università di Padova, Legnaro (PD), Italy.
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Watanabe S, Shirasuna K, Matsui M, Yamamoto D, Berisha B, Schams D, Miyamoto A. Effect of intraluteal injection of endothelin type A receptor antagonist on PGF2alpha-induced luteolysis in the cow. J Reprod Dev 2006; 52:551-9. [PMID: 16757881 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.18018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a luteolytic mediator in the bovine corpus luteum (CL), and its action appears to be via endothelin type A receptor (ETR-A). Thus, the aim of the present study was to determine the effect of ETR-A antagonist on PGF2alpha-induced luteolysis in the cow. Cows on days 10-12 of the estrous cycle were subjected to five intraluteal injections of the ETR-A antagonist LU 135252 in saline or only saline at -0.5, 2, 4, 6, and 8 h after PGF2alpha administration (=0 h). Serial luteal biopsies were conducted to determine the expression of mRNA in the luteal tissue. There were no significant differences in the decrease in plasma progesterone (P) concentrations and the mRNA expressions of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein and 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/Delta5, Delta4-isomerase between the ETR-A antagonist-treated group and the control group. However, the start of the decline in CL volume and blood flow area surrounding the CL was delayed for almost two days in the ETR-A antagonist-treated group compared to the control group. The mRNA expression of preproET-1 and endothelin type B receptor increased in both groups, while the ETR-A mRNA remained unchanged. In addition, caspase-3 mRNA expression increased significantly at 24 h in the control group only and its level was higher than that of the ETR-A antagonist-treated group. Thus, the present study suggests that ET-1 regulates structural luteolysis via ETR-A by controlling blood vessel contraction in the CL of the cow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sho Watanabe
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Japan
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Mann GE, Lamming GE. Timing of prostaglandin F(2alpha) release episodes and oxytocin receptor development during luteolysis in the cow. Anim Reprod Sci 2006; 93:328-36. [PMID: 16533579 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2005.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2005] [Revised: 08/04/2005] [Accepted: 08/12/2005] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The timing of PGF(2alpha) release and the timing and extent of the rise in endometrial oxytocin receptors was determined in relation to the timing of the progesterone fall during luteolysis in cycling cows. In cows undergoing luteolysis (n = 6), measurement of PGF(2alpha) metabolite in hourly plasma samples collected during daily 10 h sampling periods identified a total of 2.2+/-0.5 PGF(2alpha) release episodes per animal, each of 4.0+/-0.4 h duration. In cows in which luteolysis was not observed (n = 4) no PGF(2alpha) release episodes were identified. In a further three cows in which additional repeated uterine biopsies were collected on days 15, 17, 19, 21 and 23, endometrial oxytocin receptors were initially undetectable (<15 fmol/mg protein) but had increased to 120+/-19 fmol/mg protein prior to the initiation of PGF(2alpha) release episodes. Receptor concentrations then continued to increase reaching peak concentrations of 651+/-142 after luteolysis had been completed.
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Affiliation(s)
- G E Mann
- University of Nottingham, School of Biosciences, Division of Animal Physiology, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough LE12 5RD, UK.
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41
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Fleming JGW, Spencer TE, Safe SH, Bazer FW. Estrogen regulates transcription of the ovine oxytocin receptor gene through GC-rich SP1 promoter elements. Endocrinology 2006; 147:899-911. [PMID: 16254027 DOI: 10.1210/en.2005-1120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Establishment of pregnancy in ruminants results from paracrine signaling by interferon tau (IFNT) from the conceptus to uterine endometrial luminal epithelia (LE) that prevents release of luteolytic prostaglandin F(2alpha) pulses. In cyclic and pregnant ewes, progesterone down-regulates progesterone receptor (PGR) gene expression in LE. In cyclic ewes, loss of PGR allows for increases in estrogen receptor alpha (ESR1) and then oxytocin receptor (OXTR) gene expression followed by oxytocin-induced prostaglandin F(2alpha) pulses. In pregnant ewes, IFNT inhibits transcription of the ESR1 gene, which presumably inhibits OXTR gene transcription. Alternatively, IFNT may directly inhibit OXTR gene transcription. The 5' promoter/enhancer region of the ovine OXTR gene was cloned and found to contain predicted binding sites for activator protein 1, SP1, and PGR, but not for ESR1. Deletion analysis showed that the basal promoter activity was dependent on the region from -144 to -4 bp that contained only SP1 sites. IFNT did not affect activity of the OXTR promoter. In cells transfected with ESR1, E2, and ICI 182,780 increased promoter activity due to GC-rich SP1 binding sites at positions -104 and -64. Mutation analyses showed that the proximal SP1 sites mediated ESR1 action as well as basal activity of the promoter. In response to progesterone, progesterone receptor B also increased OXTR promoter activity. SP1 protein was constitutively expressed and abundant in the LE of the ovine uterus. These results support the hypothesis that the antiluteolytic effects of IFNT are mediated by direct inhibition or silencing of ESR1 gene transcription, thereby precluding ESR1/SP1 from stimulating OXTR gene transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joann G W Fleming
- Center for Animal Biotechnology and Genomics, Texas A&M University, College Station, 77843-2471, USA
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42
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Mechsner S, Bartley J, Loddenkemper C, Salomon DS, Starzinski-Powitz A, Ebert AD. Oxytocin receptor expression in smooth muscle cells of peritoneal endometriotic lesions and ovarian endometriotic cysts. Fertil Steril 2005; 83 Suppl 1:1220-31. [PMID: 15831296 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2004.11.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2004] [Revised: 11/03/2004] [Accepted: 11/03/2004] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the expression of oxytocin receptor (OTR) in peritoneal and ovarian endometriotic lesions. DESIGN Retrospective nonrandomized study. SETTING University hospital endometriosis research center. PATIENT(S) Premenopausal women with histologically confirmed endometriosis were selected. Peritoneal endometriotic lesions (n = 120); ovarian endometriotic cysts (n = 40); peritoneal biopsies, distant from the endometriotic lesion (n = 55); and unaffected peritoneal biopsies from patients without endometriosis (n = 11) were obtained. Hysterectomy specimens from patients without endometriosis and/or adenomyosis were used for controls (n = 10). INTERVENTION(S) Histopathological examination of peritoneal and ovarian specimens for OTR expression and identification of smooth muscle cells by immunohistochemistry staining with antibodies against OTR and smooth muscle actin. In addition, Western blot analysis, double-immunofluorescence, and in vitro studies with primary cell cultures have been performed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Comparison of the immunoreactive score of the OTR and smooth muscle actin expression with the smooth muscle content in peritoneum with and without endometriosis. RESULT(S) In the epithelial cells of endometriotic lesions, we could demonstrate a high OTR expression. The stromal cells were OTR negative with the exception of some single cells. By using a monoclonal anti-smooth muscle actin antibody, these cells could be identified as intrastromal OTR-positive smooth muscle cells. The peritoneum of women with endometriosis shows a significantly higher smooth muscle content than the peritoneum of women without endometriosis. There were no significant differences between the smooth muscle content of active or inactive lesions and the stage of disease. CONCLUSION(S) Oxytocin receptor is expressed in smooth muscle cells and epithelial cells of peritoneal endometriotic lesions and ovarian endometriotic cysts. The inhibition of OTR by specific inhibitors might be a useful approach for the treatment of endometriosis-associated pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia Mechsner
- Endometriosis Research Center Berlin, Department of Gynecology, Charité, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12200 Berlin, Germany
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Ozaki T, Takahashi K, Kanasaki H, Iida K, Miyazaki K. Expression of the type I interferon receptor and the interferon-induced Mx protein in human endometrium during the menstrual cycle. Fertil Steril 2005; 83:163-70. [PMID: 15652903 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2004.06.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2004] [Revised: 06/01/2004] [Accepted: 06/01/2004] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the expression of the type I interferon receptor (IFNAR) and interferon-induced Mx protein (Mx) in normal human endometrium throughout the menstrual cycle. DESIGN Prospective study. SETTING Medical university in Japan. PATIENT(S) Thirty-seven normal endometrial tissues from fertile women who had undergone hysterectomies for reasons other than endometrial disease. INTERVENTION(S) IFNAR-1, IFNAR-2, MxA, and MxB gene expression was analyzed by reverse transcription-real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Moreover, localization of IFNAR-1 and IFNAR-2 were studied by immunohistochemistry. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Expression of IFNAR-1, IFNAR-2, MxA, and MxB. RESULT(S) Expression of IFNAR-2 gene was significantly increased in the menstrual and midsecretory phase as compared with in the proliferative phase. Immunohistochemistry for IFNAR-1 and IFNAR-2 revealed weak staining of glandular epithelium and weak staining of stromal cells during the proliferative phase. However, an intense immunohistochemical staining of IFNAR-2 was observed on the surface and basement membrane of glands in the secretory phase. There was no statistical difference between MxA and MxB gene expression throughout the menstrual cycle. CONCLUSION(S) Our results suggest that IFNAR and Mx are expressed in the human endometrium and that the expression of IFNAR is cyclically changed during the menstrual cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoya Ozaki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seirei Hamamatsu General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
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44
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Shirasuna K, Asaoka H, Acosta TJ, Wijayagunawardane MPB, Ohtani M, Hayashi M, Matsui M, Miyamoto A. Real-Time Relationships in Intraluteal Release among Prostaglandin F2α, Endothelin-1, and Angiotensin II During Spontaneous Luteolysis in the Cow1. Biol Reprod 2004; 71:1706-11. [PMID: 15269098 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.104.030270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well known that prostaglandin F(2alpha) (PGF(2alpha)) is a physiological luteolysine, and that its pulsatile release from the endometrium is a luteolytic signal in many species. There is now clear evidence that the vasoactive peptides endothelin-1 (ET-1) and angiotensin II (Ang II) interact with PGF(2alpha) in the luteolytic cascade during PGF(2alpha)-induced luteolysis in the cow. Thus, we investigated the local secretion of PGF(2alpha), ET-1, and Ang II in the corpus luteum (CL) and their real-time relationships during spontaneous luteolysis in the cow. For this purpose, an in vivo microdialysis system (MDS) implanted in the CL was utilized to observe local secretion changes within the CL microenvironment. Each CL of cyclic Holstein cows (n = 6) was surgically implanted with MDS capillary membranes (18 lines/6 cows) on Day 15 (estrus = Day 0) of the estrous cycle. The concentrations of PGF(2alpha), ET-1, Ang II, and progesterone (P) in the MDS samples were determined by enzyme immunoassays. The intraluteal PGF(2alpha) secretion slightly increased from 12 h after the onset of luteolysis (0 h) and drastically increased (by about 300%) from 24 h. Intraluteal ET-1 secretion increased from 12 h. Intraluteal Ang II secretion was elevated from 0 h and was maintained at high levels (about 180%) toward estrus. In each MDS lines (in the same microenvironment) within the regressing CL, the local releasing profiles of PGF(2alpha), ET-1, and Ang II CL positively correlated with each other (P < 0.05) at high proportions in 18 MDS lines (PGF(2alpha) vs. ET-1, 44.4%; PGF(2alpha) vs. Ang II, 55.6%; ET-1 vs. Ang II, 38.9%). In contrast, there was no clear relationship among these substances released into different MDS lines implanted in the same CL (with different microenvironments). In conclusion, we propose that the increase of PGF(2alpha), ET-1, and Ang II within the CL during luteolysis is a common phenomenon for both PGF(2alpha)-induced and spontaneous luteolysis. Moreover, this study illustrated the in vivo relationships in intraluteal release among PGF(2alpha), ET-1, and Ang II during spontaneous luteolysis in the cow. The data suggest that these vasoactive substances may interact with each other in a local positive feedback manner to activate their secretion in the regressing CL, thus accelerating and completing luteolysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koumei Shirasuna
- Department of Agricultural and Life Science, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Japan
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45
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Krzymowski T, Stefańczyk-Krzymowska S. The oestrous cycle and early pregnancy – a new concept of local endocrine regulation. Vet J 2004; 168:285-96. [PMID: 15501146 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2003.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/07/2003] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Facts discovered in recent decades have compelled us to revise long-established views on the physiological regulation of cyclic adjustments to the reproductive system in preparation for pregnancy in females. Evidence has been presented to show that changes in the uterine blood supply induced by the oestrogen/progesterone ratio in the blood and cytokines are important in the regulation of the secretory function of the endometrium. Progressive reduction in uterine blood flow during the luteal phase of the oestrous cycle causes regressive changes in endometrial cells and release of prostaglandin (PG) F(2 alpha), resulting in initiation of luteolysis. Retrograde transfer of PGF(2 alpha) in the area of the mesometrium vasculature is an important element in the mechanism protecting the corpora lutea against luteolysis before day 12 of the porcine oestrous cycle and during early pregnancy and pseudopregnancy. Results of many studies presented in this review indicate that PGF(2 alpha) pulses in uterine venous blood during the follicular phase of the oestrous cycle may not be due to PGF(2 alpha) secretion by endometrial cells, but occur due to remodeling of the endometrium and pulsatile exretion of PGF(2 alpha) in accordance with rhythmic uterine contractions caused by oxytocin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadeusz Krzymowski
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Pathophysiology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, Olsztyn 10-747, Poland
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46
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Shirasuna K, Asaoka H, Acosta TJ, Wijayagunawardane MPB, Ohtani M, Hayashi KG, Matsui M, Miyamoto A. Real-time dynamics of prostaglandin F2α release from uterus and corpus luteum during spontaneous luteolysis in the cow. Reproduction 2004; 128:189-95. [PMID: 15280558 DOI: 10.1530/rep.1.00183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Prostaglandin (PG) F2α released from the uterus in a pulsatile fashion is essential to induce regression of the corpus luteum (CL) in the cow. In addition to the uterus, the CL has also been recognized as a site of PGF2α production. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the detailed dynamics of the releasing profile of CL-derived PGF2α together with uterus-derived PGF2α during spontaneous luteolysis in the cow. Non-lactating Holstein cows (n = 6) were surgically implanted with a microdialysis system (MDS) on day 15 (oestrus = day 0) of the oestrous cycle. Simultaneously, catheters were implanted to collect ovarian venous plasma ipsilateral to the CL as well as jugular venous plasma. The concentrations of PGF2α, 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGF2α (PGFM) and progesterone in the MDS and plasma samples were determined by enzyme immunoassays. The intra-luteal PGF2α secretion slightly increased after the onset of luteolysis (0 h) and drastically increased from 24 h, and was maintained at high levels towards the following oestrus. Furthermore, PGF2α was released from the CL into the ovarian vein in a pulsatile manner during spontaneous luteolysis. Also, the fact that intra-luteal secretion of PGF2α and PGFM showed a positive correlation indicates the existence of a local metabolic pathway for PGF2α in the CL. In conclusion, the present study clarified the real-time dynamics of uterus-derived PGF2α and CL-derived PGF2α during spontaneous luteolysis in the cow, and gives the first in vivo evidence that the CL releases PGF2α during spontaneous luteolysis in the cow. Although the physiological relevance of CL-derived PGF2α appears to be restricted to a local role as an autocrine/paracrine factor in the CL, overall results support the concept that the local release of PGF2α within the regressing CL amplifies the luteolytic action of PGF2α from the uterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koumei Shirasuna
- Department of Agricultural and Life Science, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Japan
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47
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Spencer TE, Burghardt RC, Johnson GA, Bazer FW. Conceptus signals for establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. Anim Reprod Sci 2004; 82-83:537-50. [PMID: 15271478 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2004.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Establishment and maintenance of pregnancy results from signaling by the conceptus (embryo/fetus and associated extraembryonic membranes) and requires progesterone produced by the corpus luteum. In most mammals, hormones produced by the trophoblast maintain progesterone production by acting directly or indirectly to maintain the corpus luteum. In domestic animals (ruminants and pigs), hormones from the trophoblast are antiluteolytic in that they act on the endometrium to prevent uterine release of luteolytic prostaglandin F2alpha. In cyclic and pregnant sheep, progesterone negatively autoregulates progesterone receptor gene expression in the endometrial luminal and superficial glandular epithelium. In cyclic sheep, loss of the progesterone receptor is closely followed by increases in epithelial estrogen receptors and then oxytocin receptors, allowing oxytocin to induce uterine release of luteolytic prostaglandin F2alpha pulses. In pregnant sheep, the conceptus trophoblast produces interferon tau that acts on the endometrium to inhibit transcription of the estrogen receptor alpha gene directly and the oxytocin receptor gene indirectly to abrogate development of the endometrial luteolytic mechanism. Subsequently, sequential, overlapping actions of progesterone, interferon tau, placental lactogen, and growth hormone comprise a hormonal servomechanism that regulates endometrial gland morphogenesis and terminal differentiated function to maintain pregnancy in sheep. In pigs, the conceptus trophoblast produces estrogen that alters the direction of prostaglandin F2alpha secretion from an endocrine to exocrine direction, thereby sequestering luteolytic prostaglandin F2alpha within the uterine lumen. Conceptus estrogen also increases expression of fibroblast growth factor 7 in the endometrial lumenal epithelium that, in turn, stimulates proliferation and differentiated functions of the trophectoderm, which expresses the fibroblast growth factor 7 receptor. Strategic manipulation of these physiological mechanisms may improve uterine capacity, conceptus survival, and reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- T E Spencer
- Department of Animal Science, Center for Animal Biotechnology and Genomics, Texas A and M University, College Station, TX 77843-2471, USA.
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48
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Mann GE, Lamming GE, Scholey D, Hunter M, Pettibone DJ. Attenuation of PGF2alpha release in ewes infused with the oxytocin antagonist L-368,899. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2003; 25:255-62. [PMID: 14550509 DOI: 10.1016/s0739-7240(03)00063-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
We have investigated the effects of systemic administration of the oxytocin antagonist (OTA) L-368,899 on luteolytic PGF(2alpha) release in ewes. In the first study, carried out in four ovariectomized ewes primed with progesterone to induce responsiveness to oxytocin, 3-h i.v. infusions of 3, 10 and 30 microg/kg/min OTA, carried out on days 12, 14, 16 and 18 in a Latin Square design, resulted in a significant attenuation of the oxytocin induced increase in PGFM concentration at all doses (OTA 139+/-8.3% of pre-oxytocin baseline; control 206.8+/-18.7%; P<0.005). In a further study, continuous infusion of cyclic ewes (n=6) with 10 microg/kg/min OTA from day 13 to day 17 of the cycle resulted in a reduction in both the frequency (OTA 1.0+/-0.4/ewe; control 2.2+/-0.2/ewe; P<0.05) and amplitude (OTA 31.8+/-11.0 pg/ml; control 68.8+/-10.4 pg/ml; P<0.05) of endogenous PGFM episodes compared to control ewes (n=5) measured during daily 8-h sampling windows on days 14-17. This reduction in PGFM concentrations was accompanied by a modest extension in the day of luteolysis (progesterone <0.5 ng/ml) to day 17.5+/-0.4 in the OTA treated group compared with day 16.4+/-0.5 in the control group (P=0.07). The results demonstrate that treatment with OTA caused a significant reduction in episodes of increased PGFM concentration during the period of luteolysis and may provide an approach by which to reduce early pregnancy failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- G E Mann
- Division of Animal Physiology, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, LE12 5RD, UK.
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49
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Kombé A, Sirois J, Goff AK. Prolonged progesterone treatment of endometrial epithelial cells modifies the effect of estradiol on their sensitivity to oxytocin. Steroids 2003; 68:651-8. [PMID: 12957670 DOI: 10.1016/s0039-128x(03)00094-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), and oxytocin (OT) are important for the initiation of luteolysis in ruminants but the mechanisms involved are still poorly understood. The objective of this study was to determine if duration of exposure of bovine endometrial epithelial cells to P4 affected the response of the cells to E2. Endometrial epithelial cells, from cows at Days 1-3 of the estrous cycle, were cultured for 10, 17, and 21 days in the presence or absence of P4 (100 ng ml(-1)). After culture, each group of cells was incubated for a further 6, 12, 24 or 48 h with or without E2 (100 pg ml(-1)) and then incubated for 6 h with different doses of OT (2, 20, and 200 ng ml(-1)). E2 enhanced OT-stimulated PGF2 alpha secretion in cells cultured with P4 for 17 or 21 days, with a maximum effect after 24-h exposure, but not in cells cultured with P4 for 10 days. To determine the mechanism of action of E2, COX-1 and COX-2 were measured by Western blotting and OTR number was measured by saturation analysis. OT increased COX-2 (P<0.05), but there was no significant effect of E2 on the expression of either COX-1 or COX-2. E2 did, however, increase (P<0.001) the OTR number in cells cultured with P4 for 21 days, whereas it inhibited OTR in cells cultured for 10 days. These data show that E2 can stimulate PGF2 alpha secretion by increasing OTR expression in bovine endometrial cells in vitro, but only after exposure to P4.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kombé
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction Animale, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 Rue Sicotte, St-Hyacinthe, Que., Canada J2S 7C6
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50
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Kieborz-Loos KR, Garverick HA, Keisler DH, Hamilton SA, Salfen BE, Youngquist RS, Smith MF. Oxytocin-induced secretion of prostaglandin F2alpha in postpartum beef cows: effects of progesterone and estradiol-17beta treatment. J Anim Sci 2003; 81:1830-6. [PMID: 12854821 DOI: 10.2527/2003.8171830x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to determine the effect of progesterone or progesterone + estradiol-17beta on oxytocin-induced prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha) secretion in postpartum beef cows. Thirty-four anestrous postpartum beef cows were ovariectomized (d 32 [Groups 1 to 3] or d 23 [Groups 4 to 6] postpartum [d 0 = parturition]) and allotted to six treatments (Group 1; negative control) to simulate short (Groups 2 through 5) or normal (Group 6) length estrous cycles. Steroid treatments for the respective groups were as follows: Group 1) no estradiol-17beta or progesterone treatment (n = 8; negative control); Group 2) progesterone (d 34 to 40; n = 6); Group 3) estradiol-17beta (d 32 to 33) and progesterone (d 34 to 40; n = 6); Group 4) progesterone (d 23 to 29), no estradiol-17beta (d 32 to 33), and progesterone (d 34 to 40; n = 5); Group 5) progesterone (d 23 to 29), estradiol-17beta (d 32 to 33), and progesterone (d 34 to 40; n = 5); and Group 6) progesterone (d 23 to 29), estradiol-17beta (d 32 to 33), and progesterone (d 34 to 50; n = 4; positive control). Oxytocin (100 IU) was injected (i.v.) at the end of each treatment to test the ability of the postpartum uterus to secrete PGF2alpha as measured by a stable metabolite of PGF2alpha, 15keto-13,14 dihydro-PGF2alpha (PGFM). Peak concentrations ofPGFM (P < 0.08) and total PGFM secreted (area under the curve; P < 0.05) were increased on d 6 following first (Group 2) or second (Group 4) exposure to progesterone and were similar to peak concentrations and total PGFM secreted 16 d following a simulated normal estrous cycle (Group 6). Administration of estradiol-17beta before first progesterone exposure (Group 3) did not reduce peak concentrations of PGFM or total PGFM secreted relative to the preceding groups. Peak concentrations of PGFM (P < 0.08) and total PGFM secreted (P < 0.05) were reduced following a second progesterone exposure, provided that cows were pretreated with estradiol-17beta (Group 5). In summary, oxytocin-induced release of PGFM was inhibited on d 6 following second exposure to progesterone only when cows were pretreated with estradiol-17beta. Therefore, estradiol-17beta and progesterone were both associated with the timing of PGF2, secretion in postpartum cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- K R Kieborz-Loos
- Animal Sciences Department, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211, USA
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