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Bao Z, Chen Y, Li J, Cai J, Yang J, Zhai P, Zhao B, Wu X. 4D label-free quantitative proteomic analysis identifies CRABP1 as a novel candidate gene for litter size in rabbits†. Biol Reprod 2024; 111:110-122. [PMID: 38478424 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
In commercial rabbit breeding, litter size is a crucial reproductive trait. This trait directly determines the reproductive ability of female rabbits and is crucial for evaluating the production efficiency. We here compared differentially expressed proteins of in the ovary tissue from New Zealand female rabbits with high (H) and low (L) litter sizes by using 4D label-free quantitative proteomic technology and identified 92 differential proteins. The biological functions of these proteins were revealed through gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses. Most distributions of GO and KEGG were related to reproduction, growth development, and metabolism. Furthermore, a novel candidate gene cellular retinoic acid binding protein-1 (CRABP1), which was highly expressed in the L group, was selected for further biological function verification. The Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and flow cytometry analysis revealed that CRABP1 can promote granulosa cell (GC) apoptosis and inhibit GC proliferation. Furthermore, qRT-PCR and western blotting analysis revealed that CRABP1 regulates the genes (HSD17B1, Wnt-10b, FSHR, TAF4B, BMP15, and BMP6) and protein (Wnt-10b) associated with steroid hormone synthesis and follicle development. The PCR product direct sequencing method revealed single nucleotide polymorphisms in the core promoter region of CRABP1. Luciferase activity assays revealed that the transcriptional activity of the GG genotype was significantly higher than that of the TT or TG genotype. Different genotypes are accompanied by changes in transcription factors, which indicates that T-359G polymorphism can regulate CRABP1 expression. In general, we identified litter size-related genes and revealed the mechanism underlying the effect of CRABP1 on litter size. CRABP1 serves as a key factor in the reproductive capacity of rabbits and can act as a molecular biomarker for the breeding of New Zealand rabbits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyuan Bao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yang Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiali Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiawei Cai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Pin Zhai
- Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - Bohao Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xinsheng Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
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Jia X, Kang Z, Wang G, Zhang K, Fu X, Li C, Lai S, Chen SY. Long-read sequencing-based transcriptomic landscape in longissimus dorsi and transcriptome-wide association studies for growth traits of meat rabbits. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1320484. [PMID: 38318148 PMCID: PMC10839001 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1320484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Rabbits are an attractive meat livestock species that can efficiently convert human-indigestible plant biomass, and have been commonly used in biological and medical researches. Yet, transcriptomic landscape in muscle tissue and association between gene expression level and growth traits have not been specially studied in meat rabbits. In this study Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) long-read sequencing technology was used for comprehensively exploring transcriptomic landscape in Longissimus dorsi for 115 rabbits at 84 days of age, and transcriptome-wide association studies (TWAS) were performed for growth traits, including body weight at 84 days of age and average daily gain during three growth periods. The statistical analysis of TWAS was performed using a mixed linear model, in which polygenic effect was fitted as a random effect according to gene expression level-based relationships. A total of 18,842 genes and 42,010 transcripts were detected, among which 35% of genes and 47% of transcripts were novel in comparison with the reference genome annotation. Furthermore, 45% of genes were widely expressed among more than 90% of individuals. The proportions (±SE) of phenotype variance explained by genome-wide gene expression level ranged from 0.501 ± 0.216 to 0.956 ± 0.209, and the similar results were obtained when explained by transcript expression level. In contrast, neither gene nor transcript was detected by TWAS to be statistically significantly associated with these growth traits. In conclusion, these novel genes and transcripts that have been extensively profiled in a single muscle tissue using long-read sequencing technology will greatly improve our understanding on transcriptional diversity in rabbits. Our results with a relatively small sample size further revealed the important contribution of global gene expression to phenotypic variation on growth performance, but it seemed that no single gene has an outstanding effect; this knowledge is helpful to include intermediate omics data for implementing genetic evaluation of growth traits in meat rabbits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianbo Jia
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhe Kang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Guozhi Wang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- Sichuan Academy of Grassland Sciences, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiangchao Fu
- Sichuan Academy of Grassland Sciences, Chengdu, China
| | - Congyan Li
- Animal Breeding and Genetics Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Animal Science Academy, Chengdu, China
| | - Songjia Lai
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shi-Yi Chen
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
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Peiró R, Argente MJ, García ML. Changes in Body Reserves, Non-Esterified Fatty Acids, and Leptin during the Reproductive Lifespan of the Rabbit Female. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3213. [PMID: 37893936 PMCID: PMC10603740 DOI: 10.3390/ani13203213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this work is to study changes in body weight, perirenal fat thickness (PFT), and non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) and leptin concentrations throughout the reproductive life of the rabbit female and their correlations when a semi-intensive reproductive rhythm is applied. A total of 46 lactating females were used. Body weight, PFT, and NEFA and leptin concentration were recorded at 12 weeks of age, at first mating and delivery, and at second, third, and fourth mating, 12th d of gestation, and delivery. The highest body weight was detected on the 12th d of any gestation, around 4280 g, and the lowest weight was at delivery, around 4030 g. PFT increased until third mating. NEFA and leptin concentration showed a cyclical pattern throughout the reproductive lifespan of the females. NEFAs presented the highest concentration at delivery within each reproductive cycle and levels decreased over the course of the deliveries (0.423 mmol/L at first delivery, 0.406 mmol/L at second delivery, 0.371 mmol/L at third delivery, and 0.309 mmol/L at fourth delivery). Similar NEFA concentrations at mating and on the 12th d of gestation were obtained. Leptin showed the highest concentrations at mating within each reproductive cycle. Leptin decreased between mating and delivery in all reproductive cycles and it was close to 1 ng/mL HE. Low or null correlations were shown between body weight, PFT, and NEFA and leptin concentration at mating, 12th d of gestation, and delivery. In conclusion, females are able to maintain a semi-intensive reproductive rhythm across four parities weighing around 4 kg from first mating. Females had an increased perirenal fat thickness until third delivery, and their NEFA concentration was maximum at delivery and leptin concentration was maximum at mating. Body weight, PFT, and NEFA and leptin concentration should be measured during critical moments of reproductive life in order to determine body condition and energy mobilization, due to their low or null correlations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Peiró
- Instituto de Conservación y Mejora de la Agrodiversidad Valenciana (COMAV), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - María-José Argente
- Centro de Investigación e Innovación Agroalimentaria y Agroambiental (CIAGRO-UMH), Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche, Ctra. Beniel km 3.2, 03312 Alicante, Spain; (M.-J.A.); (M.-L.G.)
| | - María-Luz García
- Centro de Investigación e Innovación Agroalimentaria y Agroambiental (CIAGRO-UMH), Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche, Ctra. Beniel km 3.2, 03312 Alicante, Spain; (M.-J.A.); (M.-L.G.)
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Agradi S, Sulce M, Menchetti L, Vigo D, Castrica M, Barbato O, Andoni E, Quattrone A, Munga A, Marongiu ML, Curone G, Brecchia G. Dietary supplementation with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids: Effects on reproductive and productive performance and meat quality in rabbit breeding. ANIMAL NUTRITION (ZHONGGUO XU MU SHOU YI XUE HUI) 2023; 14:70-78. [PMID: 37252331 PMCID: PMC10220468 DOI: 10.1016/j.aninu.2023.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Rabbit breeding has many critical aspects related to reproduction, production, and animal welfare, which reduce its profitability as well as consumer attractiveness. Dietary supplementation with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) seems to be a good nutritional strategy to improve several aspects of rabbit breeding, enhance animal welfare and produce a new functional food considered healthy for human consumption. For this reason, the main available scientific research regarding the physiological effects of n-3 PUFA rich products supplemented to the rabbit diet will be reviewed. In particular, consequences on the reproductive performances of both doe and buck, the productive parameters, and the meat quality will be analysed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Agradi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
| | - Majlind Sulce
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agricultural University of Tirana, Tirana, Albania
| | - Laura Menchetti
- School of Bioscience and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Daniele Vigo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
| | - Marta Castrica
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
| | - Olimpia Barbato
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Egon Andoni
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agricultural University of Tirana, Tirana, Albania
| | - Alda Quattrone
- School of Bioscience and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Albana Munga
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agricultural University of Tirana, Tirana, Albania
| | | | - Giulio Curone
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
| | - Gabriele Brecchia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
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Krunt O, Zita L, Kraus A, Moravcsíková Á, Frühauf Kolářová M, Bartoš L. Effects of Genotype and Housing System on Rabbit Does' Aggressive Behaviors and Injuries in Smallholding Conditions. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13081357. [PMID: 37106920 PMCID: PMC10135181 DOI: 10.3390/ani13081357] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of the study was to investigate the effects of housing (deep litter + concrete floor vs. deep litter + ground soil with the possibility to dig burrows), and genotype (Mecklenburg or Hyplus) on aggressive behaviour, social contacts, does' and kits' injuries, and progeny mortality. Twelve groups of six rabbit does (n = 72) were assigned to four treatments (two housing systems and two genotypes). Aggressive behaviour of does, number of injuries on does and kits, and postnatal kit mortality were recorded. The effects of housing and genotype were tested using multivariate GLMM Models. We found that the housing treatment in interaction with the genotype had a significant effect on aggressive behaviours in group housed does (F3,12 = 14.34, p = 0.0003), where the lowest incidence of aggression was in Mecklenburg does housed on ground soil. Reduced aggression was reflected in a lower number of injuries in does (F3,68 = 10.51, p < 0.0001), number of injuries in kits, and kit mortality (F3,1 = 4.59, p < 0.0001, F3,54 = 43.94, p < 0.0001). The results indicate that the proper combination of genotype and housing should be carefully considered for breeding to reduce aggression and injury in group housed does.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ondřej Krunt
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, Suchdol, 165 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lukáš Zita
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, Suchdol, 165 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Adam Kraus
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, Suchdol, 165 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ágnes Moravcsíková
- Department of Ethology and Companion Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, Suchdol, 165 00 Prague, Czech Republic
- Institute of Animal Science, Přátelství 815, 104 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martina Frühauf Kolářová
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, Suchdol, 165 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Luděk Bartoš
- Institute of Animal Science, Přátelství 815, 104 00 Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Game Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, Suchdol, 165 00 Prague, Czech Republic
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Bienboire-Frosini C, Marcet-Rius M, Orihuela A, Domínguez-Oliva A, Mora-Medina P, Olmos-Hernández A, Casas-Alvarado A, Mota-Rojas D. Mother-Young Bonding: Neurobiological Aspects and Maternal Biochemical Signaling in Altricial Domesticated Mammals. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13030532. [PMID: 36766424 PMCID: PMC9913798 DOI: 10.3390/ani13030532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Mother-young bonding is a type of early learning where the female and their newborn recognize each other through a series of neurobiological mechanisms and neurotransmitters that establish a behavioral preference for filial individuals. This process is essential to promote their welfare by providing maternal care, particularly in altricial species, animals that require extended parental care due to their limited neurodevelopment at birth. Olfactory, auditory, tactile, and visual stimuli trigger the neural integration of multimodal sensory and conditioned affective associations in mammals. This review aims to discuss the neurobiological aspects of bonding processes in altricial mammals, with a focus on the brain structures and neurotransmitters involved and how these influence the signaling during the first days of the life of newborns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Bienboire-Frosini
- Department of Molecular Biology and Chemical Communication, Research Institute in Semiochemistry and Applied Ethology (IRSEA), 84400 Apt, France
| | - Míriam Marcet-Rius
- Animal Behaviour and Welfare Department, Research Institute in Semiochemistry and Applied Ethology (IRSEA), 84400 Apt, France
| | - Agustín Orihuela
- Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Cuernavaca 62209, Mexico
| | - Adriana Domínguez-Oliva
- Neurophysiology, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assessment, DPAA, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Xochimilco Campus, Mexico City 04960, Mexico
| | - Patricia Mora-Medina
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Cuautitlán, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico (UNAM), Cuautitlán Izcalli 54740, Mexico
| | - Adriana Olmos-Hernández
- Division of Biotechnology—Bioterio and Experimental Surgery, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación-Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra (INR-LGII), Tlalpan, Mexico City 14389, Mexico
| | - Alejandro Casas-Alvarado
- Neurophysiology, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assessment, DPAA, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Xochimilco Campus, Mexico City 04960, Mexico
| | - Daniel Mota-Rojas
- Neurophysiology, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assessment, DPAA, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Xochimilco Campus, Mexico City 04960, Mexico
- Correspondence:
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El-Desoky NI, Hashem NM, Elkomy AG, Abo-Elezz ZR. Improving Rabbit Doe Metabolism and Whole Reproductive Cycle Outcomes via Fatty Acid-Rich Moringa oleifera Leaf Extract Supplementation in Free and Nano-Encapsulated Forms. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12060764. [PMID: 35327160 PMCID: PMC8944487 DOI: 10.3390/ani12060764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Under intensive rabbit production systems, due to the increased energy requirements of reproductive events, specifically pregnancy and lactation, rabbit does may confront several metabolic disorders as a result of energy imbalance. Moringa oleifera leaf ethanolic extract (ME) is one of the phytogenic extracts that has an impressive range of phytochemicals, specifically fatty acids (FAs). These phytochemicals may be biologically effective to support metabolism and reproductive functions of rabbit does during different reproductive cycle events. However, the high FAs content of ME makes them highly susceptible to lipid oxidation, diminishing their nutritional value and biological effects. In this study, we aimed to test the effects of FAs of ME either in a free-from or in a nano-encapsulated form on metabolism, immunity, milk production, milk composition, and reproductive performance of rabbit does during different physiological status (premating, mating, pregnancy, and lactation). The results showed that ME improved health, metabolism, immune functions, milk production and composition, and reproductive performance of rabbit does. These effects remained obvious even when a lower dose of ME was used in a nano-encapsulated form. Abstract The effects of free and nano-encapsulated ME supplementations on the metabolism, immunity, milk production and composition, and reproductive performance of rabbit does during premating, mating, pregnancy, and lactation were investigated. Multiparous rabbit does (n = 26 per group) received 50 mg of free ME (FME) daily, 25 mg of nano-encapsulated ME (HNME), or 10 mg of nano-encapsulated ME (LNME) per kilogram of body weight or were not supplemented (C) during a whole reproductive cycle. The ME contained 30 fatty acids with 54.27% total unsaturated fatty acids (USFAs). The fatty acid encapsulation efficiency of alginate nanoparticles was 70.46%. Compared with the C group, rabbits in all ME treatments had significantly increased body weight, feed intake, and glucose concentration and significantly decreased non-esterified free fatty acids and β-hydroxybutyrate concentrations. Rabbits supplemented with ME also had significantly increased white blood cell counts, phagocytic activity, lysozyme activity, and immunoglobulin G and decreased interleukin-1β concentrations. Moreover, ME supplementation significantly increased the concentrations of colostrum immunoglobulins, milk yield and energy content, and milk USFAs (omega-3 and 6). Rabbit does in the ME treatments had significantly higher conception and parturition rates and better litter characteristics than the C rabbit does. These results demonstrate the positive role of ME fatty acids on the health status and productive and reproductive performance of rabbit does at different physiological stages. Compared with the FME treatment, these parameters were further improved in rabbits that received nano-encapsulated ME at lower doses, illustrating how nano-encapsulation technology improves the bioavailability of ME.
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Villamayor PR, Gullón J, Yáñez U, Sánchez M, Sánchez-Quinteiro P, Martínez P, Quintela L. Assessment of Biostimulation Methods Based on Chemical Communication in Female Doe Reproduction. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:308. [PMID: 35158632 PMCID: PMC8833788 DOI: 10.3390/ani12030308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Biostimulation is an animal management practice that helps improve reproductive parameters by modulating animal sensory systems. Chemical signals, mostly known as pheromones, have a great potential in this regard. This study was conducted to determine the influence of short-term female rabbit exposure to different conditions, mainly pheromone-mediated, on reproductive parameters of inseminated does. Groups of 60 females/each were exposed to (1) female urine, (2) male urine, (3) seminal plasma and (4) female-female (F-F) separated, just before artificial insemination, and compared to a 'golden method' female-female interaction. The following reproductive parameters were analyzed for each group: receptivity (vulvar color), fertility (kindling rate), prolificacy and number of born alive and dead kits/litter. Our results showed that the biostimulation methods employed in this experiment did not significantly improve any of the analyzed parameters. However, female doe exposure to urine, especially to male urine, showed no significant higher fertility values (95.4%) when compared to the rest of the experimental conditions (on average 92.4%). Female-female interaction before artificial insemination, which is a common practice in rabbit farms, showed similar results as not establishing social interaction (F-F separated), which suggests that F-F interaction could be replaced by F-F separated, therefore avoiding unnecessary animal management and time cost. On the other hand, fertility ranges were lower for animals with a pale vulvar color whereas no differences were noticed among the other three colors which measure receptivity (pink, red, purple), thus suggesting that these three colors could be grouped together. Future studies should aim at determining potential chemical cues/pheromones released through bodily secretions that influence reproduction in rabbits, therefore contributing to animal welfare and to a natural image of animal production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula R. Villamayor
- Department of Genetics, Veterinary Faculty, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (USC), Avda Carballo Calero s/n, 27002 Lugo, Spain;
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Veterinary Clinic Science, Veterinary Faculty (USC), Avda Carballo Calero s/n, 27002 Lugo, Spain;
| | - Julián Gullón
- COGAL SL, Cuniculture Company, 36530 Rodeiro, Spain; (J.G.); (M.S.)
| | - Uxía Yáñez
- Unit of Reproduction, Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty (USC), Avda Carballo Calero s/n, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (U.Y.); (L.Q.)
| | - María Sánchez
- COGAL SL, Cuniculture Company, 36530 Rodeiro, Spain; (J.G.); (M.S.)
| | - Pablo Sánchez-Quinteiro
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Veterinary Clinic Science, Veterinary Faculty (USC), Avda Carballo Calero s/n, 27002 Lugo, Spain;
| | - Paulino Martínez
- Department of Genetics, Veterinary Faculty, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (USC), Avda Carballo Calero s/n, 27002 Lugo, Spain;
| | - Luis Quintela
- Unit of Reproduction, Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty (USC), Avda Carballo Calero s/n, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (U.Y.); (L.Q.)
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Mattioli S, Maranesi M, Castellini C, Dal Bosco A, Arias-Álvarez M, Lorenzo PL, Rebollar PG, García-García RM. Physiology and modulation factors of ovulation in rabbit reproduction management. WORLD RABBIT SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.4995/wrs.2021.13184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Rabbit is an induced ovulatory species, so ovulation takes place after mating. Traditionally, exogenous and synthetic hormonal factors (administered by intramuscular and intravaginal route) such as GnRH and analogues, or different physical procedures (i.e. stimulation by intravaginal cannula) have been used to induce ovulation in females when artificial insemination is applied in rabbit farms. Restriction and public rejection of the use of hormones is leading to the study of the seminal plasma components with potential action on ovulation induction. The aim of the present review is to collect and summarise the strategies used in recent years to trigger ovulation and improve rabbit fertility management with respect to more animal-friendly manipulation methods. Furthermore, special attention has been paid to the use of a semen component (as endogen molecule) such as beta nerve growth factor (β-NGF) in male and female rabbit reproductive physiology. This neurotrophin and its receptors (TrKA and p75NTR) are abundantly distributed in both male and female rabbit reproductive tracts, and it seems to have an important physiological role in sperm maturation and behaviour (velocity, apoptosis and capacitation), as well as a modulatory factor of ovulation. Endogen β-NGF is diluted in the seminal doses with the extenders; hence it could be considered an innovative and alternative strategy to avoid the current exogenous (by intramuscular route) and stressful hormonal treatments used in ovulation induction. Their addition in seminal dose could be more physiological and improve animal welfare in rabbit farms.
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10
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Rauterberg SL, Bill J, Kimm S, Kemper N, Fels M. Health, performance and soiling of breeding does and their kits kept in two different housing systems on a German rabbit farm. WORLD RABBIT SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.4995/wrs.2021.13266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
<p>The aim of the present study was to compare a new housing (NC) for rabbit does and their kits that complies with German welfare regulations with established wire mesh cages (CC) on a commercial rabbit farm. Rabbit does were single-housed from five days antepartum until weaning at 31 d postpartum either in large pens (80×80 cm with an open top) with slatted plastic flooring (11 mm slats and 11 mm gaps), nestbox, elevated platform (15% perforated) and different manipulable materials (NC) or in cages (70×50×30 cm) with wire mesh flooring (12×70 mm holes and 3 mm wire diameter), nestbox and one gnawing stick (CC). Skin lesions, weight development, fertility, morbidity, cleanliness and kit performance of 272 rabbit does in a total of six batches were investigated. While there was no difference in performance of their kits, rabbit does showed an impaired performance with less weight gain and less body weight at weaning, lower fertility, more injuries and a higher incidence of mastitis and diarrhoea at the end of the rearing period in NC housing compared to CC housing. Additionally, soiling of hind feet was higher in NC than in CC housing. Overall, the poor hygienic conditions may have affected the animals’ health and make an improvement in the new housing system necessary, especially with regard to the floor design.</p>
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Taghouti M, García J, Ibáñez MA, Macchiavelli RE, Nicodemus N. Relationship between Body Chemical Composition and Reproductive Traits in Rabbit Does. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11082299. [PMID: 34438759 PMCID: PMC8388528 DOI: 10.3390/ani11082299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary At the beginning of the productive life of rabbit does, there must be a balance between ensuring at least a minimal degree of bodily development to guarantee a successful reproductive life, and the minimization of the unproductive rearing period, but nowadays there is no clear recommendation about the optimal moment for the first artificial insemination (AI). A better body condition at the first AI (higher body protein, fat and energy), that indicates a higher degree of maturity of the rabbit doe, did not influence fertility at the first AI (that is usually very high), but improved it at the second AI (that is usually lower than the first one). The percentage of kits born alive at the first and at the second AI also were positively influenced by the body protein content at the first AI. We can conclude that the degree of maturity at the first AI is a key point to optimize the does reproductive success, with body fat and body protein content being relevant factors. Abstract The relationship among live weight, chemical body composition and energy content (at artificial insemination (AI) and three days before parturition), estimated by bioelectrical impedance with fertility rates and the percentage of kits born alive, was studied during the first three AI. The first AI was conducted at 16 weeks of age in 137 rabbit does that weighted 3.91 ± 0.46 kg. Their body chemical composition was 17.4 ± 0.50%, 16.1 ± 2.6%, 1067 ± 219 kJ/100 g body weight, for protein, fat and energy, respectively. An increase in body protein, fat and energy content at the first AI did not affect fertility at the first AI but improved it at the second AI (p ≤ 0.030). Moreover, an increase in body fat and energy content at the second AI improved fertility at the second AI (p ≤ 0.001). Fertility at the third AI was positively influenced by body protein at the third AI and the increase in body protein and fat between the second parturition and the third AI (p ≤ 0.030). The percentage of kits born alive at the first and at the second AI improved with the increase in body protein at the first AI (p ≤ 0.040). In conclusion, a minimal body protein and fat content is required at the first AI to optimize the reproductive performance in young does.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meriem Taghouti
- FeedInov CoLab, Integrated Production Systems, Quinta da Fonte Boa, 2005-048 Santarém, Portugal;
| | - Javier García
- Departamento de Producción Agraria, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería Agronómica, Agroalimentaria y de Biosistemas, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, C/Senda del Rey 18, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Miguel A. Ibáñez
- Departamento de Economía Agraria, Estadística y Gestión de Empresas, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería Agronómica, Agroalimentaria y de Biosistemas, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, C/Senda del Rey 18, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Raúl E. Macchiavelli
- Colegio de Ciencias Agrícolas, Universidad de Puerto Rico, Mayagüez 00681-9000, Puerto Rico;
| | - Nuria Nicodemus
- Departamento de Producción Agraria, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería Agronómica, Agroalimentaria y de Biosistemas, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, C/Senda del Rey 18, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-9106-71072
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Díaz Cano JV, Argente MJ, García ML. Effect of Postbiotic Based on Lactic Acid Bacteria on Semen Quality and Health of Male Rabbits. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:1007. [PMID: 33916715 PMCID: PMC8066811 DOI: 10.3390/ani11041007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of lactic acid bacteria-based postbiotic supplementation on semen characteristics and hematological and biochemical profiles in rabbits. A total of 28 males were randomly allocated into two groups. Males received a Control diet and Enriched diet supplemented with postbiotic for 15 weeks (4 weeks of adaptation period and 11 weeks of experimental period). Body weight, feed intake and semen characteristics were recorded weekly. Hematological profile was recorded at the beginning and end of the experiment and biochemical profile at 0, 5, 10 and 15 weeks. Bayesian methodology was used for the statistical analysis. Feed intake was higher in Control diet (125.2 g) than in the Enriched diet (118.6 g, p = 1.00). The percentages of abnormal spermatozoa were higher in Control diet than in Enriched diet (30% and 22%; p = 0.93) and the acrosome integrity percentage was lower (97% and 96%; p = 0.87). The hematological profile was within the range for healthy rabbits. The plasmatic level of alanine aminotransferase was higher in Control diet than Enriched diet at 5 and 10 weeks (p = 0.93 and p = 0.94, respectively) and alkaline phosphatase was similar in Control diet throughout the experiment, but decreased in Enriched diet (p = 0.97). No difference was found in kidney parameters (uric nitrogen and creatinine). Enriched diet showed higher total protein and globulin than Control diet (p = 0.99). Phosphorus was lower (p = 0.92) in Control diet than in Enriched diet. In conclusion, the addition of the postbiotic based on lactic acid bacteria seems to improve the quality of the semen and the liver profile in rabbits.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - María-José Argente
- Centro de Investigación e Innovación Agroalimentaria y Agroambiental (CIAGRO-UMH), Miguel Hernández University, 03312 Orihuela, Spain;
| | - María-Luz García
- Centro de Investigación e Innovación Agroalimentaria y Agroambiental (CIAGRO-UMH), Miguel Hernández University, 03312 Orihuela, Spain;
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Bakeer MR, Saleh SY, Gazia N, Abdelrahman HA, Elolimy A, Abdelatty AM. Effect of dietary pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) seed oil supplementation on reproductive performance and serum antioxidant capacity in male and nulliparous female V-Line rabbits. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/1828051x.2021.1889406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Manal Ramadan Bakeer
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Physiology, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Sohair Youssef Saleh
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Physiology, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Nabila Gazia
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Animal and Poultry Nutrition, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Hisham Ahmed Abdelrahman
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Hygiene and Management, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Elolimy
- Department of Animal Production, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Alzahraa Muhammad Abdelatty
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Nutrition and Clinical Nutrition, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
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Agea I, García MDLL, Blasco A, Massányi P, Capcarová M, Argente MJ. Correlated Response to Selection for Litter Size Residual Variability in Rabbits’ Body Condition. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10122447. [PMID: 33371228 PMCID: PMC7767153 DOI: 10.3390/ani10122447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A divergent selection experiment for residual variance of litter size at birth was carried out in rabbits during twelve generations. Residual variance of litter size was estimated as the within-doe variance of litter size after pre-correction for year and season as well as parity and lactation status effects. The aim of this work was to study the correlated response to selection for litter size residual variability in body condition from mating to weaning. Body condition is related directly to an animal’s fat deposits. Perirenal fat is the main fat deposit in rabbits. Individual body weight (IBW) and perirenal fat thickness (PFT) were used to measure body condition at second mating, delivery, 10 days after delivery, and weaning. Litter size of the first three parities was analyzed. Both lines decreased body condition between mating to delivery; however, the decrease in body condition at delivery was lower in the low line, despite this line having higher litter size at birth (+0.54 kits, p = 0.93). The increment of body condition between delivery and early lactation was slightly higher in the low line. On the other hand, body condition affected success of females’ receptivity and fertility at the third mating, e.g., receptive females showed a higher IBW and PFT than unreceptive ones (+129 g and +0.28 mm, respectively), and fertile females had a higher IBW and PFT than unfertile ones (+82 g and +0.28 mm, respectively). In conclusion, the does selected for reducing litter size variability showed a better deal with situations of high-energy demand, such as delivery and lactation, than those selected for increasing litter size variability, which would agree with the better health and welfare condition in the low line.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iván Agea
- Departamento de Tecnología Agroalimentaria, Escuela Politécnica Superior de Orihuela, Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche, Ctra. de Beniel km 3.2, 03312 Orihuela, Spain; (I.A.); (M.d.l.L.G.)
| | - María de la Luz García
- Departamento de Tecnología Agroalimentaria, Escuela Politécnica Superior de Orihuela, Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche, Ctra. de Beniel km 3.2, 03312 Orihuela, Spain; (I.A.); (M.d.l.L.G.)
| | - Agustín Blasco
- Institute for Animal Science and Technology, Universitat Politècnica de València, P.O. Box 22012, 46022 València, Spain;
| | - Peter Massányi
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia; (P.M.); (M.C.)
| | - Marcela Capcarová
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia; (P.M.); (M.C.)
| | - María-José Argente
- Departamento de Tecnología Agroalimentaria, Escuela Politécnica Superior de Orihuela, Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche, Ctra. de Beniel km 3.2, 03312 Orihuela, Spain; (I.A.); (M.d.l.L.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-966-749-708
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Rosell JM, de la Fuente LF, Carbajo MT, Fernández XM. Reproductive Diseases in Farmed Rabbit Does. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10101873. [PMID: 33066475 PMCID: PMC7602256 DOI: 10.3390/ani10101873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The domestic rabbit doe can have several reproductive diseases, including infertility. These were causes for consultations from rabbit producers. This led us to study the reproductive diseases of farmed does. To do this, we relied on visits to rabbitries, made since 1994. Low fertility, which in our case we considered less than 70% pregnancies (85.5% was the average observed on farms), plus an abortion rate equal to or greater than 2% of inseminated does, were the most frequent problems. Then, we scheduled work from 2014, through pregnancy checks with abdominal palpation. We recorded the results for each rebred lactating doe examined, along with data on her body and sanitary condition, and parity order. We found an effect of low body condition or diseases, such as mastitis, on infertility. Age also had an effect: first parity does were less fertile. Therefore, before servicing a doe, it is necessary to evaluate its condition, as well as various management practices (reproductive rhythm) or environmental factors (lighting). Abstract In this study, we determined the occurrence of reproductive diseases in does on 1373 visited farms in Spain and Portugal, between 1994 and 2019. The retrospective information obtained was entered in a database classified as follows: apparent infertility (≤70% pregnancy rate), abortions (≥2% of serviced does), high fetal death risk at parturition (≥10%) or dystocia, amongst others. Infertility was the reason for 181 visits. The median of prevalence of apparent infertility in these cases was 35% (minimum to maximum: 25–90%) and the mean, 37.4%. We performed a prospective study to determine risk factors at the individual and farm level, with a second database corresponding to 2014–2019. We carried out pregnancy checks, assessed sanitary status and body condition, and recorded the age of 17,297 rebred lactating does on 142 farms. The median size of the farms was 800 does, and the examined cohorts, 350 does. Predisposing risk factors for infertility were observed: e.g., mastitis had an effect. During the 5-year study, we made a third database with the results from 190,508 does palpated by producers in a subset of 134 farms. In this case, the median of the prevalence of apparent infertility was 14.5% (minimum to maximum: 4.1–50%), which could be considered baseline occurrence when monitoring the theriogenology of rabbit doe farms. Reproductive rhythm was an enabling risk factor: does serviced ≤25 d postpartum were less fertile than at ≥32 d. We made a database with the body condition score (BCS) on a linear scale from 1 (emaciated) to 9 (obese). The pregnancy rate (PR) of underweight and borderline does (4/9) was 73.1%. The PR of overweight and borderline does (6/9) was 82.6% and those classified with a mean BCS (5/9): PR = 79.3%. We may infer that the optimum BCS for reproduction is 6/9, rather than 5/9. Some changes in female rabbit health and husbandry to improve reproductive performance and welfare are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Maria Rosell
- Cunivet Service, P.O. Box 518, 43080 Tarragona, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-606-165-321
| | - Luis Fernando de la Fuente
- Departamento de Producción Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Avda. Profesor Pedro Cármenes s/n, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain;
| | - María Teresa Carbajo
- Departamento de Medicina, Cirugía y Anatomía Veterinaria, Facultad de Veterinaria, Avda. Profesor Pedro Cármenes s/n, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain;
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Pollesel M, Tassinari M, Frabetti A, Fornasini D, Cavallini D. Effect of does parity order on litter homogeneity parameters. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/1828051x.2020.1827990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Pollesel
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Veterinarie, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marco Tassinari
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Veterinarie, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | | | - Damiano Cavallini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Veterinarie, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Saxmose Nielsen S, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Depner K, Drewe JA, Garin-Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Gortázar Schmidt C, Michel V, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Roberts HC, Sihvonen LH, Spoolder H, Stahl K, Velarde Calvo A, Viltrop A, Buijs S, Edwards S, Candiani D, Mosbach-Schulz O, Van der Stede Y, Winckler C. Health and welfare of rabbits farmed in different production systems. EFSA J 2020; 18:e05944. [PMID: 32626497 PMCID: PMC7008839 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2020.5944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The AGRI committee of the European Parliament requested EFSA to assess the welfare of rabbits farmed in different production systems, including organic production, and to update its 2005 scientific opinion about the health and welfare of rabbits kept for meat production. Considering reproducing does, kits and growing rabbits, this scientific opinion focusses on six different housing systems, namely conventional cages, structurally enriched cages, elevated pens, floor pens, outdoor/partially outdoor systems and organic systems. To compare the level of welfare in the different housing systems and rabbit categories, welfare impact scores for 20 welfare consequences identified from the literature were calculated, taking their occurrence, duration and severity into account. Based on the overall welfare impact score (sum of scores for the single welfare consequences), obtained via a 2‐step expert knowledge elicitation process, the welfare of reproducing does is likely (certainty 66–90%) to be lower in conventional cages compared to the five other housing systems. In addition, it is likely to extremely likely (certainty 66–99%) that the welfare of kits is lower in outdoor systems compared to the other systems and that the welfare is higher in elevated pens than in the other systems. Finally, it is likely to extremely likely (certainty 66–99%) that the welfare of growing rabbits is lower in conventional cages compared to the other systems and that the welfare is higher in elevated pens than in the other systems. Ranking of the welfare consequences allowed an analysis of the main welfare consequences within each system and rabbit category. It was concluded that for reproducing does, as well as growing rabbits, welfare consequences related to behavioural restrictions were more prominent in conventional cages, elevated pens and enriched cages, whereas those related to health problems were more important in floor pens, outdoor and organic systems. Housing in organic rabbit farming is diverse, which can result in different welfare consequences, but the overall welfare impact scores suggest that welfare in organic systems is generally good.
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Effect of litter size on prepartum metabolic and amino acidic profile in rabbit does. Animal 2020; 14:2109-2115. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731120000981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
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Correlated response to selection for litter size environmental variability in rabbits' resilience. Animal 2019; 13:2348-2355. [PMID: 30806348 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731119000302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Resilience is the ability of an animal to return soon to its initial productivity after facing diverse environmental challenges. This trait is directly related to animal welfare and it plays a key role in fluctuations of livestock productivity. A divergent selection experiment for environmental variance of litter size has been performed successfully in rabbits over ten generations. The objective of this study was to analyse resilience indicators of stress and disease in the divergent lines of this experiment. The high line showed a lower survival rate at birth than the low line (-4.1%). After correcting by litter size, the difference was -3.2%. Involuntary culling rate was higher in the high than in the low line (+12.4%). Before vaccination against viral haemorrhagic disease or myxomatosis, concentration of lymphocytes, C-reactive protein (CRP), complement C3, serum bilirubin, triglycerides and cholesterol were higher in the high line than in the low line (difference between lines +4.5%, +5.6 µg/ml, +4.6 mg/ml, +7.9 mmol/l, +0.3 mmol/l and +0.4 mmol/l). Immunological and biochemical responses to the two vaccines were similar. After vaccination, the percentage of lymphocytes and CRP concentration were higher in the low line than in the high one (difference between lines +4.0% and +13.1 µg/ml). The low line also showed a higher increment in bilirubin and triglycerides than the high line (+14.2 v. +8.7 mmol/l for bilirubin and +0.11 v. +0.01 mmol/l for triglycerides); these results would agree with the protective role of bilirubin and triglycerides against the larger inflammatory response found in this line. In relation to stress, the high line had higher basal concentration of cortisol than the low line (+0.2ng/ml); the difference between lines increased more than threefold after the injection of ACTH 1 to 24, the increase being greater in the high line (+0.9 ng/ml) than in the low line (+0.4 ng/ml). Selection for divergent environmental variability of litter size leads to dams with different culling rate for reproductive causes and different kits' neonatal survival. These associations suggest that the observed fitness differences are related to differences in the inflammatory response and the corticotrope response to stress, which are two important components of physiological adaptation to environmental aggressions.
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Hoy S. A new parameter describing fertility in rabbits at the farm level: the kit index. Arch Anim Breed 2018; 61:463-467. [PMID: 32175454 PMCID: PMC7065404 DOI: 10.5194/aab-61-463-2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The kit index (KI) combines the kindling rate (KR) and the average litter
size (LS) per group of does, per breeding round, per year, or per farm and represents
the number of total or live-born kits per 100 inseminated does. The KR is the percentage of kindlings per number of inseminated does.
Mathematically, the KI is the product of the KR multiplied by the average
LS. The KI was calculated on the basis of 12 730 inseminated does and
89 864 live-born kits from one rabbit farm during a 25-month period from 2015 to 2017.
The average KR was 70.1±9.1 % with a minimum (per
breeding round) of 35.4 % and a maximum of 90.8 %. The average LS of total
kits born was 9.16±0.91, whilst the average litter size of live-born kits was 8.87±0.90. The KI of total kits born was calculated to be 649± 121 kits per 100
inseminated does (min of 332, max of 971), while the KI of live-born kits
ranged between 326 and 944 kits per 100 inseminated does (mean of 626±122). The KI is a normally distributed parameter with respect to both the total kits born and the live-born
kits per 100 inseminated does. All three parameters (KR, LS, and KI) were
characterized by large variations from week to week with a tendency toward a
reduction in the summer months. No difference was found between the two housing
units, but large differences were found between the two genetic strains used on the
given farm. Therefore, it can be concluded that the KI is able to characterize the complex
fertility situation on the given rabbit farm. The KI can be used to demonstrate
and to solve problems regarding artificial insemination, in addition to general issues with
insemination management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steffen Hoy
- Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Justus Liebig University, Senckenbergstraße 3, 35390 Giessen, Germany
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Karimi K, Sargolzaei M, Plastow GS, Wang Z, Miar Y. Genetic and phenotypic parameters for litter size, survival rate, gestation length, and litter weight traits in American mink. J Anim Sci 2018; 96:2596-2606. [PMID: 29726960 DOI: 10.1093/jas/sky178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The economic efficiency of mink production is greatly influenced by reproductive performance. Therefore, the objective of this study was to estimate phenotypic and genetic parameters for reproduction traits including total number of kits born (TB), number of live kits at birth (LB), number of live kits at weaning (LW), survival rate at birth (SB), survival rate at weaning (SW), gestation length (GL), average kit weight per litter at birth (AWB), average kit weight per litter at week 3 (AW3), and average kit weight per litter at weaning (AWW) in American mink. Data included records of 3,046 litters collected by the Canadian Centre for Fur Animal Research at Dalhousie Faculty of Agriculture between 2002 and 2016. Significance (P < 0.05) of fixed effects (year, number of matings, color type, age of dam, origin of dam, sex ratio, and number of live kits) and random effects of permanent environment were determined using univariate repeatability models. A significant effect of permanent environment was only found for survival rate traits (P < 0.05). Subsequently, genetic and phenotypic parameters for all traits were estimated by fitting a set of bivariate models using ASREML 4.0. Heritabilities (± SE) were estimated to be 0.07 ± 0.03 for TB, 0.07 ± 0.02 for LB, 0.09 ± 0.04 for LW, 0.13 ± 0.03 for SB, 0.10 ± 0.02 for SW, 0.29 ± 0.03 for GL, 0.28 ± 0.05 for AWB, 0.19 ± 0.04 for AW3, and 0.10 ± 0.04 for AWW. Moderate positive genetic correlation was observed between AWB with SB (0.66 ± 0.10) and SW (0.61 ± 0.13). Furthermore, genetic correlations of LB with SW and AWB were 0.55 ± 0.16 and 0.53 ± 0.18, respectively. On the other hand, negative and moderate genetic correlations were observed between GL and survival rates at birth (-0.43 ± 0.14) and at weaning (-0.37 ± 0.15). These results indicated that selection for higher litter weights at birth can effectively improve survival rate and number of live kits in mink farms. It was suggested to incorporate litter weight traits as a selection criterion to increase maternal ability in mink breeding programs. Unfavorable genetic trends were observed for the studied traits indicating that phenotypic selection with low selection intensity had not been an efficient method to improve them over the last 10 yr. It was recommended to use genetic or genomic evaluation methods for mink selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karim Karimi
- Department of Animal Science and Aquaculture, Dalhousie University, Truro, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Mehdi Sargolzaei
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada.,Semex Alliance, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Graham Stuart Plastow
- Livestock Gentec, Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Zhiquan Wang
- Livestock Gentec, Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Younes Miar
- Department of Animal Science and Aquaculture, Dalhousie University, Truro, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Rosell JM, de la Fuente LF. Mastitis on Rabbit Farms: Prevalence and Risk Factors. Animals (Basel) 2018; 8:E98. [PMID: 29925797 PMCID: PMC6025392 DOI: 10.3390/ani8060098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2018] [Revised: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
In this cross-sectional study, prevalence of clinical mastitis (PCM) and farm-specific risk factors were determined on 531 doe rabbit farms in Spain and Portugal, from January 2001 through March 2017. The information was obtained by carrying out 2367 visits and doing physical examinations of 144,455 lactating does, sorted in 2635 cohorts. Overall mean PCM was 4.05% (CI95% [3.87⁻4.22]), (minimum to maximum: 0⁻36.00% PCM). This study suggests that PCM was influenced by the variable number of batches (a batch was a group of does served the same day), per maternity barn (p < 0.0001). The duo system (does being moved to clean disinfected barns for parturition), was also an enabling risk factor for CM. The day of service or lactation stage also affected PCM. Lastly, there was an effect of the breeds or lines (p < 0.0001); mean PCM ranged between 1.29% and 7.09%. A subset of data obtained from 200 farms visited during January 2012⁻March 2017, was recorded to describe the use of antimicrobials against mastitis. Changes in host, husbandry, environment, and biosecurity practices, are highlighted to provide health and welfare benefits for breeding rabbits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan M Rosell
- Cunivet Service. P.O. Box 518, 43080 Tarragona, Spain.
| | - L Fernando de la Fuente
- Department de Producción Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Avda. Profesor Pedro Cármenes s/n, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain.
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Menchetti L, Barbato O, Filipescu IE, Traina G, Leonardi L, Polisca A, Troisi A, Guelfi G, Piro F, Brecchia G. Effects of local lipopolysaccharide administration on the expression of Toll-like receptor 4 and pro-inflammatory cytokines in uterus and oviduct of rabbit does. Theriogenology 2018; 107:162-174. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.10.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2017] [Revised: 10/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Garreau H, Larzul C, Tudela F, Ruesche J, Ducrocq V, Fortun-Lamothe L. Energy balance and body reserves in rabbit females selected for longevity. WORLD RABBIT SCIENCE 2017. [DOI: 10.4995/wrs.2017.5216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
<p>The aim of this study was to compare the energy balance and dynamic of body reserves in rabbit females divergently selected for longevity. One hundred and twenty-nine females from a high longevity line (HL) and 131 females of a low longevity line (LL) were studied from the 1<sup>st</sup> to the 3<sup>rd</sup> kindling. Litter size and weight and female body weight were measured at kindling (1<sup>st</sup>, 2<sup>nd</sup> and 3<sup>rd</sup>), insemination (2<sup>nd</sup> and 3<sup>rd</sup>) and at weaning (1<sup>st</sup> and 2<sup>nd</sup>). The total body electric conductivity (TOBEC) method was used to estimate the body reserves in all females at artificial insemination and at weaning, and at kindling in females that achieved parturition. Energy balance between the 11<sup>th</sup> and the 21<sup>th</sup> d of lactation was also calculated for these females. No significant difference was found for fertility or for the number of offspring born alive and weaned. However, the total number of offspring born was higher in the LL line than in the HL line at the 2<sup>nd</sup> parturition (+1.12±0.46 g; P<0.05). Consequently, the number of stillborn offspring was higher in the LL line. LL females were 4% heavier than HL females at the first parturition (P<0.05), but then HL females had a higher live weight gain than LL females from the 1st parturition to the 2<sup>nd</sup> artificial insemination (+107.0±29 g; P=0.049), leading to a similar weight between the lines at the 2<sup>nd</sup> artificial insemination. There was no significant difference between lines for estimated energy used for growth between the 11<sup>th</sup> and the 21<sup>th</sup> d of lactation, or for estimated milk production (2365±30 g in HL line vs. 2398±30 g in LL line), estimated using the weight gain of the kits between the 11<sup>th</sup> and 21<sup>st</sup> d of lactation, for feed intake measured during this period (351±5 g/d in HL line vs. 359±5 g/d in LL line) or for energy balance (–6.11±0.3 MJ in HL line vs. –6.30±0.3 MJ in LL line). However, body energy content was higher in HL females than in LL (+2.72±0.64 MJ; P=0.001). In conclusion, selection for higher functional longevity results in a better ability of females to use body reserves in their early reproductive life.</p>
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Theau.Clément M, Guardia S, Davoust C, Galliot P, Souchet C, Bignon L, Fortun-Lamothe L. Performance and sustainability of two alternative rabbit breeding systems. WORLD RABBIT SCIENCE 2016. [DOI: 10.4995/wrs.2016.5154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
<p>The aim of this study was to evaluate 2 alternative breeding systems that differ from the current system in terms of reproduction rhythm, age of females at first insemination and the age of kits at weaning and at slaughter. We measured the performance of 332 females and their offspring over 4 consecutive cycles, as well as the sustainability of the systems. We compared an intensive (group I: reproduction rhythm [RR]=35 d; first insemination [AI<sub>1</sub>]=20.6 wk of age; weaning age [WA]=32 d; slaughter age [WS]=63 d) an extensive (group E: RR=49 d; AI<sub>1</sub>=16.6 wk; WA=30 d; WS=70 d) and a semi-intensive system (group S: RR=42 d; AI<sub>1</sub>=19.6 wk; WA=35 d; WS=70 d) considered as the control system. Sustainability was evaluated using a multicriteria assessment method that takes 14 economic, environmental and social criteria into account, for which 3 to 5 indicators were expressed as the relative score [–1; –0.5; 0; +0.5; +1] for alternative systems compared to the control system. The productivity measured at 28 d (3.5, 4.2 and 4.6 kg/AI, for groups I, S and E, respectively), at 63 d post-partum (30, 38 and 42 kg/female for 4 cycles, respectively), and the total body energy measured 3 d after the 1st and at the 4th insemination (45.4, 46.8 and 49.5 MJ, respectively), were significantly increased when the reproductive rhythm decreased (P<0.001). Before and after weaning, kit mortality decreased when the reproduction rhythm decreased (11.4, 7.3, and 1.9% and 18.3, 15.3 and 10.6% for groups I, S and E, respectively, P<0.05). Carcass quality (weight and dressing percentage) was lower in I than in the S and E groups (P<0.001). On this basis, the yearly productivity per doe at weaning could be estimated at 79, 83, and 78 kg for groups I, S and E, respectively. Consequently, the productivity per reproductive cycle increases with the extensification of the breeding system. Nevertheless, compared with the current French system (S), simultaneous changes in several breeding practices could lead to new coherent and functional systems capable of improving various aspects of sustainability.</p>
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Theau.Clément M, Galliot P, Souchet C, Bignon L, Fortun-Lamothe L. Adaptive capacity of female rabbits submitted to a change in breeding practices. WORLD RABBIT SCIENCE 2016. [DOI: 10.4995/wrs.2016.5155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to test the consequences of a change in breeding practices on 219 multiparous rabbit does over 2 reproductive cycles (5th and 6th insemination). Three rabbit breeding systems were defined I: intensive, S: semi-intensive and E: extensive), which varied for the females in terms of reproductive rhythm (RR: 35, 42 and 49 d, respectively) and age at first insemination (20.6, 19.6 and 16.6 wk, respectively), and for kits in terms of age at weaning (32, 35 and 30 d, respectively) and age at slaughter (63, 70 and 70 d, respectively). Females were submitted to one of the 3 systems from the 1st to the 4th artificial insemination (AI), and to another system from the 5th to the 6th AI, before returning to the initial system at the 7th AI. Consequently, they were allocated to 4 groups: I-S-I, S-I-S, S-E-S and E-S-E. Because of poor reproductive performance in the I system and despite a high growth of kits before weaning due to a more energetic diet for does, a sudden change from an I system to an S system significantly increased productivity at 28 d, from 3.37 to 5.04 kg/AI. Conversely, in the S and E systems, the females were not very sensitive to an intensification (groups S-I-S and E-S-E) or an extensification (S-E-S) of the breeding system, leading to similar productivity at 63 d (14.4 and 14.3 kg/AI, 14.4 and 13.5 kg/AI, 16.5 and 16.2 kg/AI, respectively, for groups S-I-S, E-S-E and S-E-S). The consequences of a return to the initial system deserve to be tested over a longer period.
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Read T, Combes S, Gidenne T, Destombes N, Bébin K, Balmisse E, Fortun-Lamothe L. Influence of feeding strategy and diet for reproductive rabbit does on intake, performances, and health of young and females before and after weaning1. J Anim Sci 2016; 94:4848-4859. [DOI: 10.2527/jas.2016-0678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Nyameasem JK, Adu EK, Amoah KO, Hagan BA. The effect of male proximity on vaginal patency, estrous cycle length and feed intake of female grasscutters. Trop Anim Health Prod 2015; 48:445-9. [PMID: 26676245 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-015-0972-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 12/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
This study was conducted to investigate the influence of male proximity on vaginal patency, estrous cycle length and feed intake of nulliparous and pluriparous grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus) does. Twelve non-pregnant and non-lactating adult female (six nulliparous and six pluriparous) grasscutters and six proven male grasscutters were used for the study in a 2 × 2 factorial design. The factors were the type of contact between the sexes (no visual contact v. visual contact) and parity (nulliparous v. pluriparous). The condition of the vaginal membrane, which was monitored daily, was used as an indicator of the reproductive status of the experimental females. The findings of the study showed significant effect (P < 0.001) of male presence on feed intake. Visual contact between breeding pairs significantly (P < 0.05) increased the rate of vaginal opening (11 ± 3.3 % v. 22 ± 3.3 %) and significantly (P < 0.001) reduced the length of estrous cycling in the grasscutters (58 ± 5 days v. 20 ± 5 days). However, the duration of vaginal patency was not (P > 0.05) affected by the contact type. Parity had a significant (P < 0.05) effect on the duration of vaginal patency with pluriparous does recording longer duration compared to nulliparous does (76 ± 12 h v. 38 ± 12 h), but not on feed intake (P > 0.05). The study has revealed that housing breeding grasscutters such that females have visual contact with males could increase rate of vaginal patency and reduce the length of the estrous cycle in both pluriparous and nulliparous grasscutter does. This practice however compromises feed intake of the females.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kwame Owusu Amoah
- CSIR-Animal Research Institute, P.O. Box AH 20, Achimota, Accra, Ghana
| | - Bernard Ato Hagan
- CSIR-Animal Research Institute, P.O. Box AH 20, Achimota, Accra, Ghana
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Lorenzo PL, García-García RM, Árias-Álvarez M, Rebollar PG. Reproductive and nutritional management on ovarian response and embryo quality on rabbit does. Reprod Domest Anim 2015; 49 Suppl 4:49-55. [PMID: 25277432 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2014] [Accepted: 05/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Rabbit does in modern rabbitries are under intensive reproductive rhythms. Females are high milk producers with high energetic expenses due to the extensive overlap between lactation and gestation. This situation leads to a negative energy balance with a mobilization of body fat especially in primiparous rabbit does. Poor body condition and poor health status severely affect the reproductive features (fertility rate and lifespan of the doe as well as ovarian physiology). This paper reviews some reproductive and nutritional approaches used in the last years to improve the reproductive performance of rabbit females, mainly focusing on the influence on ovarian response and embryo quality and with emphasis on epigenetic modifications in pre-implantation embryos and offspring consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- P L Lorenzo
- Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Menchetti L, Brecchia G, Cardinali R, Polisca A, Boiti C. Food restriction during pregnancy: effects on body condition and productive performance of primiparous rabbit does. WORLD RABBIT SCIENCE 2015. [DOI: 10.4995/wrs.2015.1703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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Huneau-Salaün A, Bougeard S, Balaine L, Eono F, Le Bouquin S, Chavin C. Husbandry factors and health conditions influencing the productivity of French rabbit farms. WORLD RABBIT SCIENCE 2015. [DOI: 10.4995/wrs.2015.3076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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32
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Metabolic and biochemical changes in plasma of the periparturient rabbit does with different litter size. Animal 2015; 9:614-21. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731114002675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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33
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Induction of ovulation in rabbits by adding Lecirelin to the seminal dose: in vitro and in vivo effects of different excipients. Anim Reprod Sci 2014; 150:44-9. [PMID: 25242368 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2014.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Revised: 07/22/2014] [Accepted: 08/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluates the effect of Lecirelin (Dalmarelin(®), Fatro, Italy) diluted in different excipients (benzilic alcohol, benzoic acid and paraben) added to a seminal dose on LH concentrations, progesterone concentrations and ovarian status in rabbits. The in vitro effect on spermatozoa was also tested. A total of 100 multiparous female rabbits were divided into 5 groups, which at the moment of AI, received 0.2 mL (5 μg/dose) intramuscular (im) inoculation of Lecirelin (control) or the same Lecirelin dose administered intravaginally (iv) with the seminal dose alone (Lecirelin group) or with benzilic alcohol (Lecirelin BA group), benzoic acid (Lecirelin BAc group) or parabens (Lecirelin PA group) as an excipient. After 7 days, 10 rabbits per group were euthanized to analyze their ovarian status. In the control group, a high LH peak was detected 30 min post AI, while in the iv groups a slight increase in LH occurred after 120 min. The ovulation and fertility rate was similar in control and Lecirelin groups, while the lowest fertility rate was detected in the Lecirelin BA group. In a second experiment, the semen samples collected from male rabbits were diluted in TALP (control) or mixed with the 5 μg of Lecirelin solutions used in the first experiment. The highest percentage of capacitated sperm (68.3%) was recorded in the Lecirelin PA. The lowest percentages were observed in the Lecirelin BA and BAc groups. In conclusion, the iv administration of Lecirelin represents an alternative method for simplifying rabbit insemination procedures.
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Argente MJ, García MDLL, Birlanga V, Muelas R. Relationship between cortisol and acute phase protein concentrations in female rabbits. Vet J 2014; 202:172-5. [PMID: 25175722 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2014.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2013] [Revised: 07/07/2014] [Accepted: 07/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Rabbit meat production in Europe is usually based on a semi-intensive system, in which lactation and gestation overlap. The demands of lactation and pregnancy are likely to be relatively stressful for female rabbits and may compromise the immune system and reproductive performance. The present study was designed to characterise circulating levels of cortisol, haptoglobin (Hp), C-reactive protein (CRP), and serum amyloid A (SAA) in non-lactating and lactating female rabbits at first and second mating, and to determine whether any relationship exists between these biomarkers and litter size. Serum cortisol concentrations were at their greatest (mean ± SEM = 39.5 ± 3.9 nmol/L) in animals at the end of lactation. However, after weaning, cortisol concentrations were not significantly different compared to nulliparous females (19.9 ± 3.6 vs. 16.3 ± 2.2 nmol/L, respectively). The highest concentrations of circulating Hp (0.14 ± 0.01 g/L) were seen in early lactating primiparous females, and lower in nulliparous females and in rabbits after weaning. In contrast, nulliparous female rabbits showed the highest plasma CRP values (13.1 ± 1.1 mg/L). No significant differences were found for SAA. Nulliparous females had smaller litter sizes than early lactating and non-lactating primiparous female rabbits. CRP and SAA showed a positive correlation (r = +0.24, P = 0.011) and were negatively related to litter size (r = -0.23, P = 0.017 and P = 0.032, respectively). Cortisol and Hp were not related to CRP, SAA, nor to litter size. These results suggest a closer association between the mechanisms that regulate release of CRP and SAA, compared to those that regulate Hp production. Thus, lactation is associated with changes in several stress biomarkers. CRP and SAA might be more useful for evaluating animal welfare and for predicting subsequent reproductive performance of female rabbits.
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Affiliation(s)
- María-José Argente
- Departamento de Tecnología Agroalimentaria, Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche, Ctra de Beniel km 3.2, 03312 Orihuela, Spain.
| | - María de la Luz García
- Departamento de Tecnología Agroalimentaria, Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche, Ctra de Beniel km 3.2, 03312 Orihuela, Spain
| | - Virginia Birlanga
- Departamento de Tecnología Agroalimentaria, Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche, Ctra de Beniel km 3.2, 03312 Orihuela, Spain
| | - Raquel Muelas
- Departamento de Tecnología Agroalimentaria, Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche, Ctra de Beniel km 3.2, 03312 Orihuela, Spain
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Eiben C, Gódor-Surmann K, Kustos K. Effect of a transitory controlled nursing on days 9–11 or a 24-h fast on the production of free-nursing rabbits. Livest Sci 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2013.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Zotte AD, Paci G. Influence of rabbit sire genetic origin, season of birth and parity order on doe and litter performance in an organic production system. ASIAN-AUSTRALASIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCES 2013; 26:43-9. [PMID: 25049704 PMCID: PMC4093054 DOI: 10.5713/ajas.2012.12401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2012] [Revised: 10/08/2012] [Accepted: 09/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to compare both the performance of litters derived from two sire genetic origins (SGO), Vienna Blue (VB) and Burgundy Fawn (BF), along successive seasons of birth (SB; winter, spring, summer and autumn), and doe reproductive performance in an organic production system. A total of fifty-eight does consisting of a mixture of crosses of several medium-large size breeds at different parity order (P, 1 = nulliparous; 2 = primiparous; ≥3 = multiparous) and twelve males (6 VB and 6 BF) were housed indoors at environmental conditions that followed seasonality. An extensive reproductive rhythm was used and kits were weaned at 46±6 d of age. Doe reproductive performance and the data of 105 litters (55 from VB and 50 from BF SGO) were recorded throughout the SB. No statistically significant differences related to SGO effect were observed. As regards parity order, multiparous does showed higher live weights (LW) (p<0.05), total born (p<0.01), total born alive (p<0.05) per delivery, and litter weight of born alive (p<0.05), but lower milk output at 21st d than primiparous does (p<0.05). The extensive reproductive rhythm mainly increased litter performance at birth in multiparous does but was not sufficient to permit a complete recovery of body reserves lost during lactation. Autumn SB negatively affected doe LW variation between deliveries. The number of pups born and born alive per delivery (p<0.05) and litter size at 21 d of age and at weaning (p<0.01) were lower during hot SB. Due to the lower litter size of pups born in summer and autumn, their individual weight at 21st d of age and daily individual growth rate 0 to 21 d were higher than those of pups born in winter (p<0.001). Litter performance at 21st d of age and individual pup pre-weaning growth rate were poorer for those born in spring than in other seasons due to the harmful effects of increased environmental temperatures. SB affected most of the performance traits of does and young rabbits reared under the organic farming system. The rabbits seemed better suited to organic rearing conditions during winter than in other seasons. The worst results overall were obtained in the spring SB, whereas the hot SB negatively affected both doe energy balance and prolificacy. In conclusion, the pups of the 2 SGO showed good pre-weaning performance and seemed suited to the organic rabbit production system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Dalle Zotte
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Agripolis, 35020 Legnaro (PD), Italy
| | - Gisella Paci
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Agripolis, 35020 Legnaro (PD), Italy
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Daoud NM, Mahrous KF, Ezzo OH. Feed restriction as a biostimulant of the production of oocyte, their quality and GDF-9 gene expression in rabbit oocytes. Anim Reprod Sci 2012; 136:121-7. [PMID: 23084759 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2012.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2011] [Revised: 09/19/2012] [Accepted: 09/23/2012] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The use of short-term feed restriction (R) without or with subsequent refeeding (F) as biostimulant of rabbit fertility was examined in this study. A total of 40 mature, non-pregnant, non-lactating New Zealand white female rabbits were allocated to five treatments. The rabbits were individually caged and fed a complete pelleted diet (16.7% CP; 13.1 CF; 2490kcalDE/kg). Rabbits on the control (C) treatment received 150g/d of the diet. Two groups of 8 rabbits received 70% of the control daily feed intake (105g/d; moderate restriction; M) and the other two groups received 50% of the control feed intake (75g/d; severe restriction; S) for 21d. At the end of this period, one group each of M and S fed rabbits were slaughtered for oocyte recovery. Rabbits in the remaining three groups (C, MF and SF) were retained for a further 8d before slaughter and fed the control level of the diet during this period. The effects on body weight, oocyte number and quality, GDF-9 gene expression in oocytes, and changes in serum levels of leptin and IGF-1 were recorded. Initial mean body weights were not significantly different ranging from 2.50±0.33kg (S) to 2.58±0.24kg (C). After 3wk on treatment the C rabbits were significantly heavier (2.65±0.32kg; P<0.05) than rabbits on the M (2.26±0.33kg) or S (2.10±0.33kg) treatments. Following 8d of refeeding, the remaining group of S treated rabbits (SF) were still significantly lighter (2.40±0.21kg; P<0.05) than C (2.71±0.31kg) with MF rabbits having an intermediate weight (2.50±0.20kg). The number of mature grade A oocytes recovered per ovary was significantly lower for control (3.3±0.35) than the refed treatments (MF 4.0±0.30; SF 4.5±0.39; P<0.05). Semi-quantitative PCR analysis of GDF-9 expression showed that control mature grade A oocytes had significantly lower levels of expression (1.27±0.20; P<0.05) than those of refed rabbits (MF 1.60±0.10; SF 1.39±0.01). Leptin and IGF-1 values for refed rabbits were significantly higher (P<0.05) than at the end of feed restriction and the start point. It was concluded that this biostimulant method has the potential to improve the fertility of rabbits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niveen M Daoud
- Animal Reproduction & A. I, Department, National Research Center, Dokki, Tahrir Street, Egypt.
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Garcia-Garcia RM. Integrative control of energy balance and reproduction in females. ISRN VETERINARY SCIENCE 2012; 2012:121389. [PMID: 23762577 PMCID: PMC3671732 DOI: 10.5402/2012/121389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2012] [Accepted: 09/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
There is a strong association between nutrition and reproduction. Chronic dietary energy deficits as well as energy surpluses can impair reproductive capacity. Metabolic status impacts reproductive function at systemic level, modulating the hypothalamic GnRH neuronal network and/or the pituitary gonadotropin secretion through several hormones and neuropeptides, and at the ovarian level, acting through the regulation of follicle growth and steroidogenesis by means of the growth hormone-IGF-insulin system and local ovarian mediators. In the past years, several hormones and neuropeptides have been emerging as important mediators between energy balance and reproduction. The present review goes over the main sites implicated in the control of energy balance linked to reproductive success and summarizes the most important metabolic and neuroendocrine signals that participate in reproductive events with special emphasis on the role of recently discovered neuroendocrine peptides. Also, a little overview about the effects of maternal nutrition, affecting offspring reproduction, has been presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- R M Garcia-Garcia
- Physiology Department (Animal Physiology), Complutense University, Avenida Puerta de Hierro S/N, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Garcia-Garcia RM, Sakr OG, Arias-Alvarez M, Velasco B, Lorenzo PL, Rebollar PG. Metabolic and reproductive status are not improved from 11 to 25 day post-partum in non-weaned primiparous rabbit does. Anim Reprod Sci 2012; 131:100-6. [PMID: 22445611 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2012.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2011] [Revised: 01/14/2012] [Accepted: 02/28/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of present work was to analyze the body reserves and ovarian features of lactating primiparous rabbit does under extensive reproductive management (artificial insemination (AI) at 25 days post-partum (dpp)) compared with the common insemination rhythm at 11 dpp. A total of 48 primiparous Californian×New Zealand White rabbit does suckling 8 kits were used to assess liveweight, estimated body composition, serum metabolic and endocrine parameters (oestradiol and progesterone concentrations) and ovarian features like follicle population and atresia rate, and oocyte maturation. Rabbit does were randomly allocated in two experimental groups: (a) lactating does euthanized at early post-partum period (11 dpp) according to a semi-intensive rhythm (n=24), and (b) lactating does euthanized at later post-partum period (25 dpp) according to a more extensive rhythm (n=24). Liveweight, body energy content, lipid depots and serum non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) concentrations decreased from parturition to post-partum period (P<0.05). In addition, serum protein and glucose concentrations increased in the post-partum period (P<0.05). Similar oestradiol and progesterone levels were found in rhythms as well as similar follicle population and nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation rates measured as metaphase II and cortical granule migration, respectively in both post-partum times. However, the number of preovulatory follicles on the ovarian surface was lower (P<0.05) and the atresia rate tended to be higher with a lower percentage of healthy follicles (P<0.1) in ovaries from females of extensive group. In conclusion, the body reserves, serum metabolic parameters and oocyte quality of primiparous non-weaned rabbits does at the late post-partum time (25 days) were not improved. Thus this reproductive management did not present any advantages compared to earlier post-partum (11 days) reproductive rhythm.
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