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Liu J, Guo C, Fu J, Liu D, Liu G, Sun B, Deng M, Guo Y, Li Y. Identification and Functional Analysis of circRNAs during Goat Follicular Development. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7548. [PMID: 39062792 PMCID: PMC11277404 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147548] [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: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Litter size is a crucial quantitative trait in animals, closely linked to follicular development. Circular RNA (circRNA), a type of single-stranded closed-loop endogenous RNA with stable expression, plays pivotal roles in various biological processes, yet its function in goat follicular development remains unclear. In this study, we collected large (follicle diameter > 3 mm) and small (1 mm < follicle diameter < 3 mm) follicles from black goats in the Chuanzhong region for circRNA sequencing, with the aim of elucidating the functional circRNAs that influence follicle development in goats. Differential analysis revealed that 17 circRNAs were upregulated in large follicles, and 28 circRNAs were upregulated in small follicles. Functional enrichment analysis revealed significant enrichment of pathways related to reproduction, including cellular response to follicle-stimulating hormone stimulus, the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, the MAPK signaling pathway, and the Notch signaling pathway. Based on the ceRNA mechanism, 45 differentially expressed circRNAs were found to target and bind a total of 418 miRNAs, and an intercalation network including miR-324-3p (circRNA2497, circRNA5650), miR-202-5p (circRNA3333, circRNA5501), and miR-493-3p (circRNA4995, circRNA5508) was constructed. In addition, conservation analysis revealed that 2,239 circRNAs were conserved between goats and humans. Prediction of translation potential revealed that 154 circRNAs may potentially utilize both N6-methyladenosine (m6A) and internal ribosome entry site (IRES) translation mechanisms. Furthermore, the differential expression and circularization cleavage sites of five circRNAs were validated through RT-qPCR and DNA sequencing. Our study constructed a circRNA map in goat follicle development, offering a theoretical foundation for enhancing goat reproductive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Liu
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (J.L.); (C.G.); (B.S.); (M.D.); (Y.G.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poultry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Conghui Guo
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (J.L.); (C.G.); (B.S.); (M.D.); (Y.G.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poultry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Junjie Fu
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (J.L.); (C.G.); (B.S.); (M.D.); (Y.G.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poultry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Dewu Liu
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (J.L.); (C.G.); (B.S.); (M.D.); (Y.G.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poultry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Guangbin Liu
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (J.L.); (C.G.); (B.S.); (M.D.); (Y.G.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poultry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Baoli Sun
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (J.L.); (C.G.); (B.S.); (M.D.); (Y.G.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poultry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Ming Deng
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (J.L.); (C.G.); (B.S.); (M.D.); (Y.G.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poultry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yongqing Guo
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (J.L.); (C.G.); (B.S.); (M.D.); (Y.G.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poultry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yaokun Li
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (J.L.); (C.G.); (B.S.); (M.D.); (Y.G.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poultry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
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DUMNIEM N, TAECHAMAETEEKUL P, SUWIMONTEERABUTR J, TUMMARUK P. Supplementing a carbohydrate-rich diet from late lactation to insemination increased glucose and insulin levels in weaned sows, leading to improved subsequent piglet birth weight. J Vet Med Sci 2024; 86:636-644. [PMID: 38631872 PMCID: PMC11187600 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.24-0002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Premating maternal nutrition is crucial for postweaning follicle growth, thereby influencing piglet birth weight in subsequent litters. The present study investigated the impact of supplementing a carbohydrate-rich premating diet in sows on metabolic hormones, subsequent piglet birth weight and reproductive performance. Sows were distributed into three groups, control (n=42) received standard diets; treatment I (n=41) received the same diets supplemented with 500 g of a carbohydrate-rich premating diet from weaning until insemination; treatment II (n=42) received the same diets supplemented with 500 g of a carbohydrate-rich premating diet from 7 days before weaning until insemination. Blood samples were taken from sows around weaning to measure serum insulin-like growth factor-1 and insulin, and blood glucose after feeding. The study found that sows on a carbohydrate-rich diet (treatment II) had higher postprandial glucose (P<0.05) and insulin levels (P=0.06) than others. This diet did not affect overall reproductive performance, but it did increase piglet birth weight and reduce the number of low-birth weight piglets compared to the control (P<0.001) and treatment I groups (P<0.05). Supplementing a carbohydrate-rich premating diet for 7 days before weaning until insemination enhanced postprandial glucose and insulin concentrations in weaned sows. This dietary intervention led to improved subsequent piglet birth weight and reduced the proportion of low-birth weight piglets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natchanon DUMNIEM
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction,
Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Preechaphon TAECHAMAETEEKUL
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction,
Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Junpen SUWIMONTEERABUTR
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction,
Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre of Excellence in Swine Reproduction, Chulalongkorn
University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Padet TUMMARUK
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction,
Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre of Excellence in Swine Reproduction, Chulalongkorn
University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Osotsi JM, Balogh P, Novotnine-Danko G. Characterization of Removal Reasons for Nurse Sows and the Associated Removal Due to Their Extended Lactation Length in Hyperprolific Farrow-Wean Herds. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1607. [PMID: 38891654 PMCID: PMC11171024 DOI: 10.3390/ani14111607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to characterize and quantify reasons for the removal of nurse sows and identify the removal associated with their extended lactation length (ELL). A total of 100,756 removed nurse sows within a period of 2016-2022 from 53 sow herds in the Midwest USA were analyzed. Reproductive failure was the most common removal reason (χ2 = 8748.421, p < 0.001) affecting P1, P2, and P3 nurse sows. Failure to conceive and absence of estrus were the main causes of reproductive failure (χ2 = 352.480, p < 0.001) affecting P1 and P2 nurse sows and P1 and P5 nurse sows, respectively. When P2 and P6 nurse sows had an ELL of 0-7 d, they faced a high chance (χ2 = 13.312, p = 0.021) of removal due to conception failure and failure to return to heat, respectively. When P2 and P5 nurse sows had an ELL of 8-14 d, they were highly vulnerable (χ2 = 59.847, p < 0.001) to removal due to failure to conceive and showing heat, respectively. Finally, when ELL was at 15-21 days, P4 and P5 nurse sows were more likely (χ2 = 41.751, p < 0.001) to be removed due to failure to express heat, whereas at the same time, P2 and P3 nurse sows experienced the same removal threat due to failing to conceive. These results could help producers manage nurse sow systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joab Malanda Osotsi
- Department of Animal Science, Institute of Animal Science, Biotechnology and Natural Conservation, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences and Environmental Management, University of Debrecen, Boszormenyi Street 138, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
- Doctoral School of Animal Science, University of Debrecen, Boszormenyi Street 138, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Peter Balogh
- Non-Independent Department of Statistics and Methodology, Institute of Statistics and Methodology, Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Debrecen, Boszormenyi Street 138, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
- HUN-REN-DE High-Tech Technologies for Sustainable Management Research Group, University of Debrecen, Boszormenyi Street 138, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Gabriella Novotnine-Danko
- Department of Animal Science, Institute of Animal Science, Biotechnology and Natural Conservation, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences and Environmental Management, University of Debrecen, Boszormenyi Street 138, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
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McCall MA. Pig Models in Retinal Research and Retinal Disease. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2024; 14:a041296. [PMID: 37553210 PMCID: PMC10982707 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
The pig has been used as a large animal model in biomedical research for many years and its use continues to increase because induced mutations phenocopy several inherited human diseases. In addition, they are continuous breeders, can be propagated by artificial insemination, have large litter sizes (on the order of mice), and can be genetically manipulated using all of the techniques that are currently available in mice. The pioneering work of Petters and colleagues set the stage for the use of the pig as a model of inherited retinal disease. In the last 10 years, the pig has become a model of choice where specific disease-causing mutations that are not phenocopied in rodents need to be studied and therapeutic approaches explored. The pig is not only used for retinal eye disease but also for the study of the cornea and lens. This review attempts to show how broad the use of the pig has become and how it has contributed to the assessment of treatments for eye disease. In the last 10 years, there have been several reviews that included the use of the pig in biomedical research (see body of the review) that included information about retinal disease. None directly discuss the use of the pig as an animal model for retinal diseases, including inherited diseases, where a single genetic mutation has been identified or for multifactorial diseases such as glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. Although the pig is used to explore diseases of the cornea and lens, this review focuses on how and why the pig, as a large animal model, is useful for research in neural retinal disease and its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maureen A McCall
- Departments of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences and Anatomical Sciences & Neurobiology, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
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Ye H, Soede NM, Kemp B, Wang J, Fleuren M, Laurenssen B, Bouwman E, Langendijk P. Lactation body condition loss impaired conceptus development and plasma progesterone concentration at day 8 post-ovulation in primiparous sows. Theriogenology 2024; 218:174-182. [PMID: 38330861 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
The current study investigated effects of dietary amino acid (AA) availability on lactational body condition loss and metabolic status, in relation to reproductive parameters after weaning up to Day 8 post-ovulation. Primiparous sows (n = 35) were allocated to one of two lactation diets containing either low crude protein (CP, 140 g/kg) with a low percentage (8%) of slow protein in total protein (LL, n = 18) or high CP (180 g/kg) with a high (16%) percentage of slow protein (HH, n = 17). The HH diet was expected to improve AA utilization by supplying more AA, in a more gradual fashion. The diets did not affect sow body condition loss during lactation, while the HH diet tended to increase litter weight gain during the week 3 of lactation (Δ = 1.3 kg, P = 0.09). On Day 14 post-farrowing, HH diet led to higher plasma urea both pre-feeding and post-feeding (Δ = 2.3 mmol/L, P < 0.01, Δ = 2.4 mmol/L, P < 0.01, respectively), whilst plasma creatinine, NEFA and IGF-1 were similar. No dietary effects on reproductive parameters were found, however several relationships were found between body condition and reproductive parameters. Sows with higher body weight on Day 1 or Day 21 post-farrowing had greater follicle size on Day 3 post-weaning (β = 0.03 mm/kg, P < 0.01, β = 0.04 mm/kg, P < 0.01, respectively). At Day 8 post-ovulation, plasma progesterone concentration was negatively related to loin muscle loss (β = -0.67 ng/ml · mm-1, P = 0.02), backfat loss (β = -2.33 ng/ml · mm-1, P = 0.02), and estimated body fat loss (β = -0.67 ng/ml · mm-1, P = 0.02). Both plasma progesterone and the number of corpora lutea were positively related to the energy balance during lactation (β = 0.03 ng/ml · ME MJ-1, P = 0.01, β = 0.01 CL/ME MJ, P = 0.02, respectively). The conceptus size at Day 8 post-ovulation was negatively related to body weight loss (β = -0.01 mm/kg, P = 0.01), estimated body fat loss (β = -0.02 mm/kg, P = 0.03) and estimated body protein loss (β = -0.06 mm/kg, P = 0.04), and was positively related to the energy balance during lactation (β = 5.2*10-4 mm/ME MJ, P = 0.01). In conclusion, body protein and fat losses during lactation reduced subsequent plasma progesterone concentration and conceptus development at Day 8 post-ovulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Ye
- Adaptation Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, P.O. Box 338, 6700, AH, the Netherlands; State key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 00193, China
| | - Nicoline M Soede
- Adaptation Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, P.O. Box 338, 6700, AH, the Netherlands.
| | - Bas Kemp
- Adaptation Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, P.O. Box 338, 6700, AH, the Netherlands
| | - Junjun Wang
- State key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 00193, China
| | - Marleen Fleuren
- Trouw Nutrition R&D, Stationsstraat, 773811, MH, Amersfoort, the Netherlands
| | - Bjorge Laurenssen
- Adaptation Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, P.O. Box 338, 6700, AH, the Netherlands
| | - Emmy Bouwman
- Trouw Nutrition R&D, Stationsstraat, 773811, MH, Amersfoort, the Netherlands
| | - Pieter Langendijk
- Adaptation Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, P.O. Box 338, 6700, AH, the Netherlands; Trouw Nutrition R&D, Stationsstraat, 773811, MH, Amersfoort, the Netherlands
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Cai S, Chen M, Xue B, Zhu Z, Wang X, Li J, Wang H, Zeng X, Qiao S, Zeng X. Retinoic acid enhances ovarian steroidogenesis by regulating granulosa cell proliferation and MESP2/STAR/CYP11A1 pathway. J Adv Res 2024; 58:163-173. [PMID: 37315842 PMCID: PMC10982869 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2023.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ovarian steroidogenesis not only affects the embryonic development and pregnancy outcome, but also associates with many diseases in mammals and women. Exploring the nutrients and mechanisms influencing ovarian steroidogenesis is critical to maintaining the optimal reproductive performance, as well as guaranteeing body health. OBJECTIVES This research aimed to explore the effect of retinol metabolism on ovarian steroidogenesis and the underlying mechanisms. METHODS Comparative transcriptomic analysis of ovaries from normal and low reproductive performance sows were performed to identify the main causes leading to low fertility. The metabolites regulating steroid hormones synthesis were investigated in ovarian granulosa cells. Gene interference, overexpression, dual-luciferase reporter assays, chromatin immunoprecipitation and transcriptome analysis were further conducted to explore the underlying mechanisms of Aldh1a1 mediating ovarian steroidogenesis. RESULTS Transcriptome analysis of ovaries from normal and low reproductive performance sows showed the significant differences in both retinol metabolism and steroid hormones synthesis, indicating retinol metabolism probably influenced steroid hormones synthesis. The related metabolite retinoic acid was furtherly proven a highly active and potent substance strengthening estrogen and progesterone synthesis in ovarian granulosa cells. For the first time, we revealed that retinoic acid synthesis in porcine and human ovarian granulosa cells was dominated by Aldh1a1, and required the assistance of Aldh1a2. Importantly, we demonstrated that Aldh1a1 enhanced the proliferation of ovarian granulosa cells by activating PI3K-Akt-hedgehog signaling pathways. In addition, Aldh1a1 regulated the expression of transcription factor MESP2, which targeted the transcription of Star and Cyp11a1 through binding to corresponding promoter regions. CONCLUSION Our data identified Aldh1a1 modulates ovarian steroidogenesis through enhancing granulosa cell proliferation and MESP2/STAR/CYP11A1 pathway. These findings provide valuable clues for improving ovarian health in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China; Beijing Biofeed Additive Key Laboratory, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Meixia Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China; Beijing Biofeed Additive Key Laboratory, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China; Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, PR China
| | - Bangxin Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China; Beijing Biofeed Additive Key Laboratory, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Zhekun Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China; Beijing Biofeed Additive Key Laboratory, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Xinyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China; Beijing Biofeed Additive Key Laboratory, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Jie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Huakai Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China; Beijing Biofeed Additive Key Laboratory, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Xiangzhou Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China; Beijing Biofeed Additive Key Laboratory, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Shiyan Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China; Beijing Biofeed Additive Key Laboratory, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Xiangfang Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China; Beijing Biofeed Additive Key Laboratory, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China.
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Liu M, Chen J, Zhang C, Liu S, Chao X, Yang H, Muhammad A, Zhou B, Ao W, Schinckel AP. Deciphering Estrus Expression in Gilts: The Role of Alternative Polyadenylation and LincRNAs in Reproductive Transcriptomics. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:791. [PMID: 38473176 DOI: 10.3390/ani14050791] [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: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The fertility rate and litter size of female pigs are critically affected by the expression of estrus. The objective of this study was to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms of estrus expression by analyzing the differential expression of genes and long intergenic non-coding RNAs (lincRNA), as well as the utilization of alternative polyadenylation (APA) sites, in the vulva and vagina during the estrus and diestrus stages of Large White and indigenous Chinese Mi gilts. Our study revealed that the number of differentially expressed genes (DEG) in the vulva was less than that in the vagina, and the DEGs in the vulva were enriched in pathways such as "neural" pathways and steroid hormone responses, including the "Calcium signaling pathway" and "Oxytocin signaling pathway". The DEGs in the vagina were enriched in the "Metabolic pathways" and "VEGF signaling pathway". Furthermore, 27 and 21 differentially expressed lincRNAs (DEL), whose target genes were enriched in the "Endocrine resistance" pathway, were identified in the vulva and vagina, respectively. Additionally, we observed that 63 and 618 transcripts of the 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) were lengthened during estrus in the vulva and vagina, respectively. Interestingly, the genes undergoing APA events in the vulva exhibited species-specific enrichment in neural or steroid-related pathways, whereas those in the vagina were enriched in apoptosis or autophagy-related pathways. Further bioinformatic analysis of these lengthened 3'-UTRs revealed the presence of multiple miRNAs binding sites and cytoplasmic polyadenylation element (CPE) regulatory aspects. In particular, we identified more than 10 CPEs in the validated lengthened 3'-UTRs of the NFIX, PCNX4, CEP162 and ABHD2 genes using RT-qPCR. These findings demonstrated the involvement of APA and lincRNAs in the regulation of estrus expression in female pigs, providing new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying estrus expression in pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzheng Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Jiahao Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Chunlei Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Shuhan Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Xiaohuan Chao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Huan Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Asim Muhammad
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Bo Zhou
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Weiping Ao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar 843300, China
| | - Allan P Schinckel
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2054, USA
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Weaver AC, Kind KL, Kelly JM, Herde P, van Wettere WHJ. Effect of split weaning on follicle development and oocyte quality in multiparous sows. Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 262:107434. [PMID: 38368653 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Increasing piglet weaning age while maintaining the reproductive efficiency of the breeding herd depends on being able to stimulate sows to ovulate during lactation without reducing subsequent pregnancy rates and litter sizes. Embryo survival is affected by the quality of the oocytes shed at ovulation, and oocyte quality is profoundly impacted by the follicular environment in which the oocyte matures. This study determined the effect of reducing suckled litter size from 11 to 7 piglets on day 18 of lactation on the ovarian follicular environment and oocyte developmental competence at day 21 of lactation. Thirty-nine, Large White X Landrace sows (parity 3.2 ± 0.2; mean ± SEM; range 2-6) had their litter size either maintained at 11 piglets (control); or reduced to seven piglets on day 18 of lactation (split wean (SW)). Sows were slaughtered on day 21 of lactation and ovaries were collected for analysis of follicular fluid composition and in vitro blastocyst development rates. There was no effect of split weaning on fertilisation rate and development to blastocyst stage; however, a greater proportion of blastocysts from control sows were classified as early blastocyst stage. Furthermore, follicular fluid concentrations of oestradiol were higher in SW sows. Together, these results indicate split weaning prior to mating in lactation alters the ovarian follicular environment and while blastocyst development rates were unaffected, embryos from control sows may be of poorer quality as indicated by a delay in development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice C Weaver
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy Campus, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia.
| | - Karen L Kind
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy Campus, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Jennifer M Kelly
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, Turretfield Research Centre, Rosedale, SA 5350 Australia
| | - Paul Herde
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, Pig and Poultry Production Institute, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia
| | - William He J van Wettere
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy Campus, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia
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Sharifuzzaman M, Mun HS, Ampode KMB, Lagua EB, Park HR, Kim YH, Hasan MK, Yang CJ. Technological Tools and Artificial Intelligence in Estrus Detection of Sows-A Comprehensive Review. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:471. [PMID: 38338113 PMCID: PMC10854728 DOI: 10.3390/ani14030471] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
In animal farming, timely estrus detection and prediction of the best moment for insemination is crucial. Traditional sow estrus detection depends on the expertise of a farm attendant which can be inconsistent, time-consuming, and labor-intensive. Attempts and trials in developing and implementing technological tools to detect estrus have been explored by researchers. The objective of this review is to assess the automatic methods of estrus recognition in operation for sows and point out their strong and weak points to assist in developing new and improved detection systems. Real-time methods using body and vulvar temperature, posture recognition, and activity measurements show higher precision. Incorporating artificial intelligence with multiple estrus-related parameters is expected to enhance accuracy. Further development of new systems relies mostly upon the improved algorithm and accurate data provided. Future systems should be designed to minimize the misclassification rate, so better detection is achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Sharifuzzaman
- Animal Nutrition and Feed Science Laboratory, Department of Animal Science and Technology, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Republic of Korea; (M.S.); (H.-S.M.); (K.M.B.A.); (E.B.L.); (H.-R.P.); (M.K.H.)
- Department of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University, Gopalganj 8100, Bangladesh
| | - Hong-Seok Mun
- Animal Nutrition and Feed Science Laboratory, Department of Animal Science and Technology, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Republic of Korea; (M.S.); (H.-S.M.); (K.M.B.A.); (E.B.L.); (H.-R.P.); (M.K.H.)
- Department of Multimedia Engineering, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Republic of Korea
| | - Keiven Mark B. Ampode
- Animal Nutrition and Feed Science Laboratory, Department of Animal Science and Technology, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Republic of Korea; (M.S.); (H.-S.M.); (K.M.B.A.); (E.B.L.); (H.-R.P.); (M.K.H.)
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Sultan Kudarat State University, Tacurong 9800, Philippines
| | - Eddiemar B. Lagua
- Animal Nutrition and Feed Science Laboratory, Department of Animal Science and Technology, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Republic of Korea; (M.S.); (H.-S.M.); (K.M.B.A.); (E.B.L.); (H.-R.P.); (M.K.H.)
- Interdisciplinary Program in IT-Bio Convergence System (BK21 Plus), Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae-Rang Park
- Animal Nutrition and Feed Science Laboratory, Department of Animal Science and Technology, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Republic of Korea; (M.S.); (H.-S.M.); (K.M.B.A.); (E.B.L.); (H.-R.P.); (M.K.H.)
- Interdisciplinary Program in IT-Bio Convergence System (BK21 Plus), Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Hwa Kim
- Interdisciplinary Program in IT-Bio Convergence System (BK21 Plus), Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea;
| | - Md Kamrul Hasan
- Animal Nutrition and Feed Science Laboratory, Department of Animal Science and Technology, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Republic of Korea; (M.S.); (H.-S.M.); (K.M.B.A.); (E.B.L.); (H.-R.P.); (M.K.H.)
- Department of Poultry Science, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet 3100, Bangladesh
| | - Chul-Ju Yang
- Animal Nutrition and Feed Science Laboratory, Department of Animal Science and Technology, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Republic of Korea; (M.S.); (H.-S.M.); (K.M.B.A.); (E.B.L.); (H.-R.P.); (M.K.H.)
- Interdisciplinary Program in IT-Bio Convergence System (BK21 Plus), Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Republic of Korea
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10
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Richard S, Zhou Y, Jasoni CL, Pankhurst MW. Ovarian follicle size or growth rate can both be determinants of ovulatory follicle selection in mice†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:130-139. [PMID: 37801701 PMCID: PMC10790341 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad134] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocrinology regulating ovulation of the desired number of oocytes in the ovarian cycle is well described, particularly in mono-ovulatory species. Less is known about the characteristics that make one follicle suitable for ovulation while most other follicles die by atresia. Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) injection was used to characterize granulosa cell proliferation rates in developing ovarian follicles in the estrous cycle of mice. This methodology allowed identification of follicle diameters of secondary (80-130 μm), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)-sensitive (130-170 μm), FSH-dependent (170-350 μm), and preovulatory (>350 μm) follicles. Few preovulatory-sized follicles were present in the ovaries of mice at estrus, the beginning of the cycle. Progressive increases were seen at metestrus and diestrus, when full accumulation of the preovulatory cohort (~10 follicles) occurred. BrdU pulse-chase studies determined granulosa cell proliferation rates in the 24-48 h before the follicle reached the preovulatory stage. This showed that slow-growing follicles were not able to survive to the preovulatory stage. Mathematical modeling of follicle growth rates determined that the largest follicles at the beginning of the cycle had the greatest chance of becoming preovulatory. However, smaller follicles could enter the preovulatory follicle pool if low numbers of large antral follicles were present at the beginning of the cycle. In this instance, rapidly growing follicles had a clear selection advantage. The developing follicle pool displays heterogeneity in granulosa cell proliferation rates, even among follicles at the same stage of development. This parameter appears to influence whether a follicle can ovulate or become atretic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Richard
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Yiran Zhou
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Christine L Jasoni
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Michael W Pankhurst
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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11
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Hogg M, Wolfschmitt EM, Wachter U, Zink F, Radermacher P, Vogt JA. Ex Vivo 13C-Metabolic Flux Analysis of Porcine Circulating Immune Cells Reveals Cell Type-Specific Metabolic Patterns and Sex Differences in the Pentose Phosphate Pathway. Biomolecules 2024; 14:98. [PMID: 38254698 PMCID: PMC10813356 DOI: 10.3390/biom14010098] [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: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
In general, females present with stronger immune responses than males, but scarce data are available on sex-specific differences in immunometabolism. In this study, we characterized porcine peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) and granulocyte energy metabolism using a Bayesian 13C-metabolic flux analysis, which allowed precise determination of the glycolytic, pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), and tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) fluxes, together with an assessment of the superoxide anion radical (O2•-) production and mitochondrial O2 consumption. A principal component analysis allowed for identifying the cell type-specific patterns of metabolic plasticity. PBMCs displayed higher TCA cycle activity, especially glutamine-derived aspartate biosynthesis, which was directly related to mitochondrial respiratory activity and inversely related to O2•- production. In contrast, the granulocytes mainly utilized glucose via glycolysis, which was coupled to oxidative PPP utilization and O2•- production rates. The granulocytes of the males had higher oxidative PPP fluxes compared to the females, while the PBMCs of the females displayed higher non-oxidative PPP fluxes compared to the males associated with the T helper cell (CD3+CD4+) subpopulation of PBMCs. The observed sex-specific differences were not directly attributable to sex steroid plasma levels, but we detected an inverse correlation between testosterone and aldosterone plasma levels and showed that aldosterone levels were related with non-oxidative PPP fluxes of both cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Hogg
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (E.-M.W.); (U.W.); (F.Z.); (P.R.); (J.A.V.)
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12
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Liu M, Zhang C, Chen J, Xu Q, Liu S, Chao X, Yang H, Wang T, Muhammad A, Schinckel AP, Zhou B. Characterization and analysis of transcriptomes of multiple tissues from estrus and diestrus in pigs. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 256:128324. [PMID: 38007026 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.128324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
A comprehensive understanding of the complex regulatory mechanisms governing estrus and ovulation across multiple tissues in mammals is imperative to improve the reproductive performance of livestock and mitigate ovulation-related disorders in humans. To comprehensively elucidate the regulatory landscape, we analyzed the transcriptome of protein-coding genes and long intergenic non-coding RNAs (lincRNAs) in 58 samples (including the hypothalamus, pituitary, ovary, vagina, and vulva) derived from European Large White gilts and Chinese Mi gilts during estrus and diestrus. We constructed an intricate regulatory network encompassing 358 hub genes across the five examined tissues. Furthermore, our investigation identified 85 differentially expressed lincRNAs that are predicted to target 230 genes associated with critical functions including behavior, receptors, and apoptosis. Importantly, we found that vital components of estrus and ovulation events involve "Apoptosis" pathway in the hypothalamus, "Autophagy" in the ovary, as well as "Hypoxia" and "Angiogenesis" in the vagina and vulva. We have identified several differentially expressed transcription factors (TFs), such as SPI1 and HES2, which regulate these pathways. SPI1 may suppress transcription in the autophagy pathway, promoting apoptosis and inhibiting the proliferation of ovarian granulosa cells. Our study provides the most comprehensive transcriptional profiling information related to estrus and ovulation events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzheng Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
| | - Chunlei Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
| | - Jiahao Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
| | - Qinglei Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
| | - Shuhan Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
| | - Xiaohuan Chao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
| | - Huan Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
| | - Tianshuo Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
| | - Asim Muhammad
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
| | - Allan P Schinckel
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2054, USA.
| | - Bo Zhou
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
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13
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Moon J, Kim SJ, Lee J, Kang H, Cho B, Kim SJ. Reproductive ability of minipigs as surrogates for somatic cell nuclear transfer. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2024; 66:156-166. [PMID: 38618033 PMCID: PMC11007462 DOI: 10.5187/jast.2023.e35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Pigs are genetically, anatomically, and physiologically similar to humans. Recently, pigs are in the spotlight as a suitable source animal for xenotransplantation. However, to use pigs as source animals, pigs should be raised in designated pathogen-free facilities. There is abundant data from embryo transfer (ET) experiments using farm pigs as surrogates, but data on ET experiments using minipigs are scarce. Eighty minipigs were used for ET experiments and after transplantation, the implantation and delivery rates were investigated. It was also confirmed whether the pregnancy rate could be increased by changing the condition or surgical method of the surrogate. In the case of minipigs that gave birth, the size of the fetal sac on the 28th day of ET was also measured. The factors that can affect the pregnancy rate such as estrus synchronization program, ovulation status at the time of ET, the number of repeated ET surgeries, and the ET sites, were changed, and the differences on the pregnancy rate were observed. However there were no significant differences in pregnancy rate in minipigs. The diameter of the implanted fetal sac on the 28th day after ET in the minipigs whose delivery was confirmed was calculated to be 4.7 ± 0.5 cm. In conclusion, there were no significant differences in pregnancy rate of minipigs in the comparative experiment on various factors affecting the pregnancy rate. However, additional experiments and analyses are needed due to the large individual differences of the minipigs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Su-Jin Kim
- GenNBio Co., Ltd.,
Pyeongtaek 17796, Korea
| | | | | | - Bumrae Cho
- GenNBio Co., Ltd.,
Pyeongtaek 17796, Korea
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14
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Bharati J, Kumar S, Mohan NH, Chandra Das B, Devi SJ, Gupta VK. Ovarian follicle transcriptome dynamics reveals enrichment of immune system process during transition from small to large follicles in cyclic Indian Ghoongroo pigs. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 160:104164. [PMID: 37924675 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.104164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian follicular development is a critical determinant of reproductive performance in litter bearing species like pigs, wherein economic gains depend on litter size. The study aimed to gain insight into the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and signalling pathways regulating follicular growth and maturation in Ghoongroo pigs. Transcriptome profiling of porcine small follicles (SF) and large follicles (LF) was conducted using NovaSeq600 sequencing platform and DEGs were identified using DESeq2 with threshold of Padj. < 0.05 and log2 fold change cut off 0.58 (LF vs. SF). Functional annotations and bioinformatics analysis of DEGs were performed to find out biological functions, signalling pathways and hub genes regulating follicular dynamics. Transcriptome analysis revealed 709 and 479 genes unique to SF and LF stages, respectively, and 11,993 co-expressed genes in both the groups. In total, 507 DEGs (284 upregulated and 223 downregulated) were identified, which encoded for diverse proteins including transcription factors (TFs). These DEGs were functionally linked to response to stimulus, lipid metabolic process, developmental process, extracellular matrix organisation along with the immune system process, indicating wide-ranging mechanisms associated with follicular transition. The enriched KEGG pathways in LF stage consisted of ovarian steroidogenesis, cholesterol and retinol metabolism, cell adhesion molecules, cytokine receptor interaction and immune signalling pathways, depicting intra-follicular control of varied ovarian function. The hub gene analysis revealed APOE, SCARB1, MMP9, CYP17A1, TYROBP as key regulators of follicular development. This study identified candidate genes and TFs providing steroidogenic advantage to LFs which makes them fit for selection into the ovulatory pool of follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaya Bharati
- Animal Physiology, ICAR-National Research Centre on Pig, Rani, 781131 Guwahati, Assam, India.
| | - Satish Kumar
- Animal Genetics and Breeding, ICAR-National Research Centre on Pig, Rani, 781131 Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - N H Mohan
- Animal Physiology, ICAR-National Research Centre on Pig, Rani, 781131 Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Bikash Chandra Das
- Animal Physiology, ICAR-National Research Centre on Pig, Rani, 781131 Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Salam Jayachitra Devi
- Computer Applications and Information Technology, ICAR-National Research Centre on Pig, Rani, 781131 Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Vivek Kumar Gupta
- Director, ICAR-National Research Centre on Pig, Rani, 781131 Guwahati, Assam, India
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15
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Muro BB, Carnevale RF, Leal DF, Almond GW, Monteiro MS, Poor AP, Schinckel AP, Garbossa CA. The importance of optimal body condition to maximise reproductive health and perinatal outcomes in pigs. Nutr Res Rev 2023; 36:351-371. [PMID: 35748154 DOI: 10.1017/s0954422422000129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Overnutrition or undernutrition during all or part of the reproductive cycle predisposes sows to metabolic consequences and poor reproductive health which contributes to a decrease in sow longevity and an increase in perinatal mortality. This represents not only an economic problem for the pig industry but also results in poor animal welfare. To maximise profitability and increase sustainability in pig production, it is pivotal to provide researchers and practitioners with synthesised information about the repercussions of maternal obesity or malnutrition on reproductive health and perinatal outcomes, and to pinpoint currently available nutritional managements to keep sows' body condition in an optimal range. Thus, the present review summarises recent work on the consequences of maternal malnutrition and highlights new findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Bd Muro
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), Campus Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Rafaella F Carnevale
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), Campus Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Diego F Leal
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), Campus Pirassununga, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Glen W Almond
- Department of Population Health & Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University (NCSU), Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Matheus S Monteiro
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), Campus São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - André P Poor
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), Campus São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Allan P Schinckel
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Cesar Ap Garbossa
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), Campus Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
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16
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Meinecke B, Meinecke-Tillmann S. Lab partners: oocytes, embryos and company. A personal view on aspects of oocyte maturation and the development of monozygotic twins. Anim Reprod 2023; 20:e20230049. [PMID: 37547564 PMCID: PMC10399133 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2023-0049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The present review addresses the oocyte and the preimplantation embryo, and is intended to highlight the underlying principle of the "nature versus/and nurture" question. Given the diversity in mammalian oocyte maturation, this review will not be comprehensive but instead will focus on the porcine oocyte. Historically, oogenesis was seen as the development of a passive cell nursed and determined by its somatic compartment. Currently, the advanced analysis of the cross-talk between the maternal environment and the oocyte shows a more balanced relationship: Granulosa cells nurse the oocyte, whereas the latter secretes diffusible factors that regulate proliferation and differentiation of the granulosa cells. Signal molecules of the granulosa cells either prevent the precocious initiation of meiotic maturation or enable oocyte maturation following hormonal stimulation. A similar question emerges in research on monozygotic twins or multiples: In Greek and medieval times, twins were not seen as the result of the common course of nature but were classified as faults. This seems still valid today for the rare and until now mainly unknown genesis of facultative monozygotic twins in mammals. Monozygotic twins are unique subjects for studies of the conceptus-maternal dialogue, the intra-pair similarity and dissimilarity, and the elucidation of the interplay between nature and nurture. In the course of in vivo collections of preimplantation sheep embryos and experiments on embryo splitting and other microsurgical interventions we recorded observations on double blastocysts within a single zona pellucida, double inner cell masses in zona-enclosed blastocysts and double germinal discs in elongating embryos. On the basis of these observations we add some pieces to the puzzle of the post-zygotic genesis of monozygotic twins and on maternal influences on the developing conceptus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burkhard Meinecke
- Institut für Reproduktionsbiologie, Tierärztliche Hochschule Hannover, Hanover, Germany
- Ambulatorische und Geburtshilfliche Veterinärklinik, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sabine Meinecke-Tillmann
- Institut für Reproduktionsbiologie, Tierärztliche Hochschule Hannover, Hanover, Germany
- Institut für Tierzucht und Haustiergenetik, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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17
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Knox RV. Follicle development in pigs: State of the art. Mol Reprod Dev 2023; 90:480-490. [PMID: 35642618 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the factors and pathways involved with recruitment, atresia, and selection of follicles in the pig, may provide insight into approaches to limit fertility failures. Antral follicles depend upon FSH to the 2-3 mm stage, become codependent upon LH at 4-5 mm, and rely on LH when >5 mm. Within the follicle, gonadotropin binding, steroids, growth factors, and inhibin interact to determine the fate of the follicle. Continuous recruitment appears likely for follicles, and once >1 mm, they may have a limited period for survival, before selection or atresia. If true, then the number of healthy follicles that can respond to a hormone signal for selection, could vary by size and development stage. Which follicles are selected may depend upon their age, numbers of capillaries, granulosa and thecal cells, and FSH and LH receptors. This might also suggest that factors such as management, nutrition, and stress in prior weeks, could affect different cohorts of follicles to determine which of those from the ovarian population will be selected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert V Knox
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana, Champaign-Urbana, Illinois, USA
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18
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González-Alvarez ME, Roach CM, Keating AF. Scrambled eggs-Negative impacts of heat stress and chemical exposures on ovarian function in swine. Mol Reprod Dev 2023; 90:503-516. [PMID: 36652419 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to environmental toxicants and hyperthermia can hamper reproduction in female mammals including swine. Phenotypic manifestations include poor quality oocytes, endocrine disruption, infertility, lengthened time to conceive, pregnancy loss, and embryonic defects. The ovary has the capacity for toxicant biotransformation, regulated in part by the phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase signaling pathway. The impacts of exposure to mycotoxins and pesticides on swine reproduction and the potential for an emerging chemical class of concern, the per- and polyfluoroalkylated substances, to hamper porcine reproduction are reviewed. The negative impairments of heat stress (HS) on swine reproductive outcomes are also described and the cumulative effect of environmental exposures, such as HS, when present in conjunction with a toxicant is considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Estefanía González-Alvarez
- Department of Animal Science and Interdepartmental Toxicology Graduate Program, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
| | - Crystal M Roach
- Department of Animal Science and Interdepartmental Toxicology Graduate Program, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
| | - Aileen F Keating
- Department of Animal Science and Interdepartmental Toxicology Graduate Program, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
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19
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Jiang Y, He Y, Pan X, Wang P, Yuan X, Ma B. Advances in Oocyte Maturation In Vivo and In Vitro in Mammals. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9059. [PMID: 37240406 PMCID: PMC10219173 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24109059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The quality and maturation of an oocyte not only play decisive roles in fertilization and embryo success, but also have long-term impacts on the later growth and development of the fetus. Female fertility declines with age, reflecting a decline in oocyte quantity. However, the meiosis of oocytes involves a complex and orderly regulatory process whose mechanisms have not yet been fully elucidated. This review therefore mainly focuses on the regulation mechanism of oocyte maturation, including folliculogenesis, oogenesis, and the interactions between granulosa cells and oocytes, plus in vitro technology and nuclear/cytoplasm maturation in oocytes. Additionally, we have reviewed advances made in the single-cell mRNA sequencing technology related to oocyte maturation in order to improve our understanding of the mechanism of oocyte maturation and to provide a theoretical basis for subsequent research into oocyte maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Jiang
- School of Medical, Molecular and Forensic Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6149, Australia
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518120, China
| | - Yingting He
- Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Xiangchun Pan
- Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Penghao Wang
- School of Medical, Molecular and Forensic Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6149, Australia
| | - Xiaolong Yuan
- Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Bin Ma
- School of Medical, Molecular and Forensic Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6149, Australia
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20
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Lan Q, Deng Q, Qi S, Zhang Y, Li Z, Yin S, Li Y, Tan H, Wu M, Yin Y, He J, Liu M. Genome-Wide Association Analysis Identified Variants Associated with Body Measurement and Reproduction Traits in Shaziling Pigs. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:522. [PMID: 36833449 PMCID: PMC9957351 DOI: 10.3390/genes14020522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
With the increasing popularity of genomic sequencing, breeders pay more attention to identifying the crucial molecular markers and quantitative trait loci for improving the body size and reproduction traits that could affect the production efficiency of pig-breeding enterprises. Nevertheless, for the Shaziling pig, a well-known indigenous breed in China, the relationship between phenotypes and their corresponding genetic architecture remains largely unknown. Herein, in the Shaziling population, a total of 190 samples were genotyped using the Geneseek Porcine 50K SNP Chip, obtaining 41857 SNPs for further analysis. For phenotypes, two body measurement traits and four reproduction traits in the first parity from the 190 Shaziling sows were measured and recorded, respectively. Subsequently, a genome-wide association study (GWAS) between the SNPs and the six phenotypes was performed. The correlation between body size and reproduction phenotypes was not statistically significant. A total of 31 SNPs were found to be associated with body length (BL), chest circumference (CC), number of healthy births (NHB), and number of stillborns (NSB). Gene annotation for those candidate SNPs identified 18 functional genes, such as GLP1R, NFYA, NANOG, COX7A2, BMPR1B, FOXP1, SLC29A1, CNTNAP4, and KIT, which exert important roles in skeletal morphogenesis, chondrogenesis, obesity, and embryonic and fetal development. These findings are helpful to better understand the genetic mechanism for body size and reproduction phenotypes, while the phenotype-associated SNPs could be used as the molecular markers for the pig breeding programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qun Lan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Qiuchun Deng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Shijin Qi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Yuebo Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Zhi Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Shishu Yin
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Yulian Li
- Xiang Dong Experiment Station, Hunan Provincial Pig Industrial Technology System, Xiangtan 411100, China
| | - Hong Tan
- Xiang Dong Experiment Station, Hunan Provincial Pig Industrial Technology System, Xiangtan 411100, China
| | - Maisheng Wu
- Xiang Dong Experiment Station, Hunan Provincial Pig Industrial Technology System, Xiangtan 411100, China
| | - Yulong Yin
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Hunan Provincial Engineering Research Center for Healthy Livestock and Poultry Production; Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in South-Central, Ministry of Agriculture, Changsha 410125, China
| | - Jun He
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Mei Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
- Kunpeng Institute of Modern Agriculture at Foshan, Foshan 528226, China
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21
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Tereszkiewicz K, Kulig Ł, Antos P, Kowalczyk K. Influence of the Level of Sex Hormones in the Blood of Gilts on Slaughter Characteristics and Meat Quality. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13020267. [PMID: 36670807 PMCID: PMC9854501 DOI: 10.3390/ani13020267] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the conducted research was to determine the impact of factors such as sex hormone levels, which vary during gilts' reproductive cycle, on the quality of the obtained meat and slaughter characteristics of the processed gilts. The research material included a population of 60 gilts slaughtered in one of the slaughterhouses located in south-eastern Poland. After the slaughtering operations were completed, the carcasses were weighed at the classification stand. The results of the statistical evaluation of the haematological and biochemical blood parameters of the examined gilts showed that, in the tested blood samples, the concentration of progesterone had a statistically significant impact only on the level of total protein, which was higher in the blood samples of gilts with a low concentration of progesterone. It was found that carcasses of gilts with higher levels of the LH hormone were characterized by a lower meat content index by nearly 3%. It was shown that the concentration of LH affected the post-slaughter temperature of the sirloin and ham muscles. The interpretation of the obtained data was difficult since there seems to be a gap in the literature concerning the dependencies of sex hormone levels in gilts and meat quality.
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22
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Buyssens L, Valenzuela A, Prims S, Ayuso M, Thymann T, Van Ginneken C, Van Cruchten S. Ontogeny of CYP3A and UGT activity in preterm piglets: a translational model for drug metabolism in preterm newborns. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1177541. [PMID: 37124224 PMCID: PMC10133700 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1177541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite considerable progress in understanding drug metabolism in the human pediatric population, data remains scarce in preterm neonates. Improving our knowledge of the ADME properties in this vulnerable age group is of utmost importance to avoid suboptimal dosing, which may lead to adverse drug reactions. The juvenile (mini)pig is a representative model for hepatic drug metabolism in human neonates and infants, especially phase I reactions. However, the effect of prematurity on the onset of hepatic phase I and phase II enzyme activity has yet to be investigated in this animal model. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the ontogeny of CYP3A and UGT enzyme activity in the liver of preterm (gestational day 105-107) and term-born (gestational day 115-117) domestic piglets. In addition, the ontogeny pattern between the preterm and term group was compared to examine whether postconceptional or postnatal age affects the onset of enzyme activity. The following age groups were included: preterm postnatal day (PND) 0 (n = 10), PND 5 (n = 10), PND 11 (n = 8), PND 26 (n = 10) and term PND 0 (n = 10), PND 5 (n = 10), PND 11 (n = 8), PND 19 (n = 18) and PND 26 (n = 10). Liver microsomes were extracted, and the metabolism of CYP3A and UGT-specific substrates assessed enzyme activity. Preterm CYP3A activity was only detectable at PND 26, whereas term CYP3A activity showed a gradual postnatal increase from PND 11 onwards. UGT activity gradually increased between PND 0 and PND 26 in preterm and term-born piglets, albeit, being systematically lower in the preterm group. Thus, postconceptional age is suggested as the main driver affecting porcine CYP3A and UGT enzyme ontogeny. These data are a valuable step forward in the characterization of the preterm piglet as a translational model for hepatic drug metabolism in the preterm human neonate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Buyssens
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Allan Valenzuela
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Sara Prims
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Miriam Ayuso
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Thomas Thymann
- Comparative Pediatrics and Nutrition, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Chris Van Ginneken
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Steven Van Cruchten
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Steven Van Cruchten,
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23
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Zhou Y, Yan H, Liu W, Hu C, Zhou Y, Sun R, Tang Y, Zheng C, Yang J, Cui Q. A multi-tissue transcriptomic landscape of female mice in estrus and diestrus provides clues for precision medicine. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:983712. [PMID: 36589755 PMCID: PMC9800588 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.983712] [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: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Female reproductive cycle, also known as menstrual cycle or estrous cycle in primate or non-primate mammals, respectively, dominates the reproductive processes in non-pregnant state. However, in addition to reproductive tissues, reproductive cycle could also perform global regulation because the receptors of two major female hormones fluctuating throughout the cycle, estrogen and progesterone, are widely distributed. Therefore, a multi-tissue gene expression landscape is in continuous demand for better understanding the systemic changes during the reproductive cycle but remains largely undefined. Here we delineated a transcriptomic landscape covering 15 tissues of C57BL/6J female mice in two phases of estrous cycle, estrus and diestrus, by RNA-sequencing. Then, a number of genes, pathways, and transcription factors involved in the estrous cycle were revealed. We found the estrous cycle could widely regulate the neuro-functions, immuno-functions, blood coagulation and so on. And behind the transcriptomic alteration between estrus and diestrus, 13 transcription factors may play important roles. Next, bioinformatics modeling with 1,263 manually curated gene signatures of various physiological and pathophysiological states systematically characterized the beneficial/deleterious effects brought by estrus/diestrus on individual tissues. We revealed that the estrous cycle has a significant effect on cardiovascular system (aorta, heart, vein), in which the anti-hypertensive pattern in aorta induced by estrus is one of the most striking findings. Inspired by this point, we validated that two hypotensive drugs, felodipine and acebutolol, could exhibit significantly enhanced efficacy in estrus than diestrus by mouse and rat experiments. Together, this study provides a valuable data resource for investigating reproductive cycle from a transcriptomic perspective, and presents models and clues for investigating precision medicine associated with reproductive cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiran Zhou
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Center for Noncoding RNA Medicine, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China,Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Center for Noncoding RNA Medicine, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Han Yan
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenjun Liu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Center for Noncoding RNA Medicine, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Chengqing Hu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Center for Noncoding RNA Medicine, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Center for Noncoding RNA Medicine, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China,Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Center for Noncoding RNA Medicine, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ruya Sun
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Center for Noncoding RNA Medicine, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China,Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Center for Noncoding RNA Medicine, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yida Tang
- Department of Cardiology, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Zheng
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China,*Correspondence: Chao Zheng, ; Jichun Yang, ; Qinghua Cui,
| | - Jichun Yang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Center for Noncoding RNA Medicine, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Chao Zheng, ; Jichun Yang, ; Qinghua Cui,
| | - Qinghua Cui
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Center for Noncoding RNA Medicine, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China,Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Center for Noncoding RNA Medicine, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Chao Zheng, ; Jichun Yang, ; Qinghua Cui,
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24
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Leal DF, Viana CHC, Almond GW, Monteiro MS, Garbossa CAP, Carnevale RF, Muro BBD, Poor AP, Pugliesi G, Nichi M, Watanabe TTN, Marques MG. Estrus Synchronization of Replacement Gilts Using Estradiol Cipionate and PGF 2α and Its Effects on Reproductive Outcomes. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12233393. [PMID: 36496915 PMCID: PMC9741136 DOI: 10.3390/ani12233393] [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: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of using estrogen-induced prolonged luteal function followed by prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2α) treatment to synchronize estrus in gilts. On day12 of the estrus cycle (D0 = first day of standing estrus), 52 gilts were assigned at random to two experimental groups: non-treated gilts (CON, n = 22), serving as controls, and prolonged luteal function group (CYP, n = 30), receiving a single treatment with 10 mg of estradiol cypionate intramuscularly Starting on day 12, blood samples were collected for estradiol and progesterone assays. Estrus detection started on day 17. Gilts from the CON group were inseminated at the onset of natural estrus. On day 28 CYP gilts were treated with PGF2α to induce luteolysis and inseminated at the onset of estrus. Gilts were slaughtered 5 d after the last insemination. A single treatment with estradiol cypionate prolonged luteal function in 90% of treated gilts. The duration of the estrous cycle was longer (p < 0.0001) for CYP gilts compared to CON gilts. CYP gilts showed synchronized estrus 3.96 ± 0.19 d after induction of luteolysis. The conception rate was similar (p = 0.10) for CON and CYP gilts. No difference was observed in the embryo recovery rate (p = 0.18) and total number of embryos per female (p = 0.06). The percentage of unfertilized oocytes, fragmented embryos and viable embryos was similar among females from CON and CYP groups (p > 0.05). The treatment of gilts with a single application of 10 mg of estradiol cypionate on day 12 of the estrous cycle was effective in prolonging luteal function and treatment with PGF2α resulted in synchronized estrus. Additionally, the synchronization protocol had no deleterious effect on fertility and embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Feitosa Leal
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Glen William Almond
- Department of Population Health & Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University (NCSU), Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Matheus Saliba Monteiro
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil
| | - Cesar Augusto Pospissil Garbossa
- Department of Nutrition and Animal Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Rafaella Fernandes Carnevale
- Department of Nutrition and Animal Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Bruno Bracco Donatelli Muro
- Department of Nutrition and Animal Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil
| | - André Pegoraro Poor
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Pugliesi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Marcílio Nichi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Tatiane Terumi Negrão Watanabe
- Department of Population Health & Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University (NCSU), Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Mariana Groke Marques
- Embrapa Suínos e Aves, Concórdia 89715-899, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Animal Production and Health, Instituto Federal Catarinense, Concórdia 89703-720, Brazil
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25
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Identification of Candidate Salivary, Urinary and Serum Metabolic Biomarkers for High Litter Size Potential in Sows (Sus scrofa). Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12111045. [DOI: 10.3390/metabo12111045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The selection of sows that are reproductively fit and produce large litters of piglets is imperative for success in the pork industry. Currently, low heritability of reproductive and litter-related traits and unfavourable genetic correlations are slowing the improvement of pig selection efficiency. The integration of biomarkers as a supplement or alternative to the use of genetic markers may permit the optimization and increase of selection protocol efficiency. Metabolite biomarkers are an advantageous class of biomarkers that can facilitate the identification of cellular processes implicated in reproductive condition. Metabolism and metabolic biomarkers have been previously implicated in studies of female mammalian fertility, however a systematic analysis across multiple biofluids in infertile and high reproductive potential phenotypes has not been explored. In the current study, the serum, urinary and salivary metabolomes of infertile (INF) sows and high reproductive potential (HRP) sows with a live litter size ≥ 13 piglets were examined using LC-MS/MS techniques, and a data pipeline was used to highlight possible metabolite reproductive biomarkers discriminating the reproductive groups. The metabolomes of HRP and INF sows were distinct, including significant alterations in amino acid, fatty acid, membrane lipid and steroid hormone metabolism. Carnitines and fatty acid related metabolites were most discriminatory in separating and classifying the HRP and INF sows based on their biofluid metabolome. It appears that urine is a superior biofluid than saliva and serum for potentially predicting the reproductive potential level of a given female pig based on the performance of the resultant biomarker models. This study lays the groundwork for improving gilt and sow selection protocols using metabolomics as a tool for the prediction of reproductive potential.
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26
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Kim HD, Kim YJ, Jang M, Bae SG, Yun SH, Lee MR, Seo YR, Cho JK, Kim SJ, Lee WJ. Heat Stress during Summer Attenuates Expression of the Hypothalamic Kisspeptin, an Upstream Regulator of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis, in Domestic Sows. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:2967. [PMID: 36359090 PMCID: PMC9657376 DOI: 10.3390/ani12212967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The release of reproductive hormones in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis is regulated by its upstream regulator, kisspeptin, and influenced by external stresses, including heat stress. Since the effect of heat stress (summer infertility) on hypothalamic kisspeptin expression in domestic sows is not yet understood, the present study attempted to identify changes in kisspeptin expression in different seasons (summer and spring). The high atmospheric temperature in summer decreased the pregnancy rate and litter size and increased stress-related hormones as a chronic stressor to domestic sows. The hypothalamic kisspeptin expression in summer was decreased regardless of the estrus phase and negatively correlated with atmospheric temperature, indicating that high temperature decreased kisspeptin. When the activity of hypothalamic kisspeptin neurons in the follicular phase was assessed using c-Fos staining, a decreased number of kisspeptin neurons coexpressing c-Fos was observed in domestic sows in summer. Accordingly, lower expression of kisspeptin induced decreased levels of HPG axis-related reproductive hormones, such as gonadotropins and estrogen, and fewer large ovarian follicles. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that reduced kisspeptin expression and its neuronal activity in the hypothalamus under heat stress in summer induced downregulation of the HPG axis and caused summer infertility in domestic sows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hwan-Deuk Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
- Department of Veterinary Research, Daegu Metropolitan City Institute of Health & Environment, Daegu 42183, Korea
| | - Young-Jong Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
| | - Min Jang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
| | - Seul-Gi Bae
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
| | - Sung-Ho Yun
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
| | - Mi-Ree Lee
- Department of Veterinary Research, Daegu Metropolitan City Institute of Health & Environment, Daegu 42183, Korea
| | - Yong-Ryul Seo
- Department of Veterinary Research, Daegu Metropolitan City Institute of Health & Environment, Daegu 42183, Korea
| | - Jae-Keun Cho
- Department of Veterinary Research, Daegu Metropolitan City Institute of Health & Environment, Daegu 42183, Korea
| | - Seung-Joon Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
- Institute of Equine Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
| | - Won-Jae Lee
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
- Institute of Equine Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
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27
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Attainment of Sexual Maturity and Gonadotropin Priming in Gilts Determine Follicular Development, Endocrine Milieu and Response to Ovulatory Triggers. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169190. [PMID: 36012455 PMCID: PMC9409084 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The routine procedure of estrous cycle synchronization in pigs allows for the use of gonadotropins to stimulate ovarian activity. The applied protocols of eCG and hFSH priming similarly affected development of ovarian follicles in two classes 3−6 mm and >6 mm of diameter, however, the number of small follicles (<3 mm) was 2-fold higher in hFSH- than in eCG-primed prepubertal gilts. The attainment of sexual maturity increased concentration of estradiol, testosterone and androstenedione in the follicular fluid of hFSH/eCG-primed gilts, however, prostaglandin E2 and F2α metabolite increased in mature hFSH- and eCG-primed gilts, respectively. The maturity increased mRNA and/or protein expression of key steroidogenic enzymes, prostaglandin synthases or luteinizing hormone receptors in follicular walls. Both hormonal primers played a moderate role in affecting expression of steroidogenic enzymes in follicular walls. In vitro studies showed higher estradiol production in r-hLH (p = 0.04)- and r-hCG (p = 0.049)-stimulated follicular walls of mature gilts than in prepubertal hFSH-primed gilts. Both ovulatory triggers decreased the abundance of LHCG/FSH mRNA receptors in follicular walls, which mimic downregulation of these receptors by a preovulatory LH surge, confirmed in vivo. These data revealed the importance of sexual maturity in the protection of the estrogenic environment, and the selective, moderate role of eCG and FSH in the activation of steroidogenic enzymes in preovulatory follicles.
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28
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Salvesen HA, Byrne TJ, Whitelaw CBA, Hely FS. Simulating the Commercial Implementation of Gene-Editing for Influenza A Virus Resistance in Pigs: An Economic and Genetic Analysis. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13081436. [PMID: 36011347 PMCID: PMC9407728 DOI: 10.3390/genes13081436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of swine Influenza A Virus resistance along with genetic technologies could complement current control measures to help to improve animal welfare standards and the economic efficiency of pig production. We have created a simulation model to assess the genetic and economic implications of various gene-editing methods that could be implemented in a commercial, multi-tiered swine breeding system. Our results demonstrate the length of the gene-editing program was negatively associated with genetic progress in commercial pigs and that the time required to reach fixation of resistance alleles was reduced if the efficiency of gene-editing is greater. The simulations included the resistance conferred in a digenic model, the inclusion of genetic mosaicism in progeny, and the effects of selection accuracy. In all scenarios, the level of mosaicism had a greater effect on the time required to reach resistance allele fixation and the genetic progress of the herd than gene-editing efficiency and zygote survival. The economic analysis highlights that selection accuracy will not affect the duration of gene-editing and the investment required compared to the effects of gene-editing-associated mosaicism and the swine Influenza A Virus control strategy on farms. These modelling results provide novel insights into the economic and genetic implications of targeting two genes in a commercial pig gene-editing program and the effects of selection accuracy and mosaicism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamish A. Salvesen
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush EH25 9RG, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Timothy J. Byrne
- AbacusBio International Limited, The Roslin Innovation Centre, Edinburgh EH25 9RG, UK
| | - C. Bruce A. Whitelaw
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Fiona S. Hely
- AbacusBio Limited, 442 Moray Place, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
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29
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Kim M, Hyun SH. Neurotrophic factors in the porcine ovary: Their effects on follicular growth, oocyte maturation, and developmental competence. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:931402. [PMID: 36032306 PMCID: PMC9399750 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.931402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Pigs are cost-effective industrial animals because they produce a large number of offspring and have shorter rebreeding intervals compared with other animals, such as non-human primates. The reproductive physiology of pigs has been studied over the past several decades. However, there is not enough research on the effects of the neurotrophic factors on the ovarian physiology and development in pigs. As the ovary is a highly innervated organ, various neurotrophic factors during ovarian development can promote the growth of nerve fibers and improve the development of ovarian cells. Thus, investigating the role of neurotrophic factors on ovarian development, and the relationship between neurotrophic factors and porcine female reproduction is worth studying. In this review, we focused on the physiological roles of various neurotrophic factors in porcine ovaries and summarized the current status of the studies related to the relationship between neurotrophic factors and porcine ovarian development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirae Kim
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology, Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
| | - Sang-Hwan Hyun
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology, Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
- Graduate School of Veterinary Biosecurity and Protection, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Sang-Hwan Hyun
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30
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Ruiz S, Gardón JC, Hernández-Caravaca I, Luongo C, García-Vázquez FA. Analysis of Uterine Blood Flow in Breeding Sows through the Estrus and Early Diestrus, and after Artificial Insemination. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9060260. [PMID: 35737312 PMCID: PMC9228517 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9060260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to determine uterine blood flow indices by transabdominal Doppler ultrasound in sows (n = 18) under different conditions: (i) sows after estrus detection (day 0, D0); (ii) sows 2 h after artificial insemination (AI), performed 24 h after detection of estrus (day 1, D1); (iii) sows in early diestrus (day 5, D5). Moreover, three different types of seminal doses were used for AI depending on the ejaculate fraction included (F1: doses containing only the rich fraction of the ejaculate; F2: F1 + the transition fraction between rich and poor fractions; F3: F2 and poor fraction). The statistical analysis revealed significant differences in some indices regarding the period of analysis (D0, D1, and D5). Diastolic velocity and mean velocity showed lower values at D5 in comparison with D0 and D1 (p < 0.01). On the other hand, the pulsatility index and the relationship systolic velocity/diastolic velocity indicated higher values at D5 in comparison with D0 and D1 (p < 0.01). No differences were observed regarding the type of seminal dose used in any of the time points analyzed (p > 0.05). Neither insemination per se nor the type of ejaculate fraction used immediately modified the uterine vascularity, but some indices are affected by the stage of the estrus cycle (estrus vs. early diestrus).
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvador Ruiz
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus de Excelencia Mare Nostrum Universidad de Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (S.R.); (C.L.)
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Virgen de la Arrixaca), 30120 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Juan Carlos Gardón
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary and Experimental Sciences, Catholic University of Valencia-San Vicente Mártir, Guillem de Castro 106, 46003 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Iván Hernández-Caravaca
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Virgen de la Arrixaca), 30120 Murcia, Spain;
- Departamento de Enfermería Comunitaria, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública e Historia de la Ciencia, Facultad Ciencias de la Salud, Campus de Sant Vicent del Raspeig, E-03080 Sant Vicent del Raspeig, Spain
| | - Chiara Luongo
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus de Excelencia Mare Nostrum Universidad de Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (S.R.); (C.L.)
| | - Francisco Alberto García-Vázquez
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus de Excelencia Mare Nostrum Universidad de Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (S.R.); (C.L.)
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Virgen de la Arrixaca), 30120 Murcia, Spain;
- Correspondence:
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Lenz J, Konecna P, Tichy F, Machacova D, Fiala L, Hurnik P, Kyllar M. Unique expression patterns of the embryonal stem cell marker SOX2 and hormone receptors suggest the existence of a subpopulation of epithelial stem/progenitor cells in porcine and bovine endometrium. Vet Med Sci 2022; 8:1489-1501. [PMID: 35561288 PMCID: PMC9297784 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are currently insufficient data on the population of endometrial epithelial stem/progenitor cells in farm animals. OBJECTIVES With the aim of identifying a potential population of epithelial stem/progenitor cells in the porcine and bovine endometrium, this study immunohistochemically examined the expression patterns of the oestrogen and progesterone receptors, as well as that of the embryonal stem cell marker SOX2. METHODS A total of 24 endometrial tissue samples obtained from cycling pigs (n = 12) and cows (n = 12) were included in our study. Each endometrium was divided into basal, middle and luminal portions. The percentage of marker-positive cells and the intensity of the immunoreaction in each portion of the endometrium were determined. RESULTS Inverse expression patterns of SOX2 and progesterone receptors were found in both animal species throughout the oestrous cycle. Strong diffuse SOX2 expression was detected in the basal portions of the glands, while a significant decrease in positivity and a weak immunoreaction were found in the luminal two thirds of the glandular epithelium. Strong progesterone receptor expression was observed in at least 90% of glandular cells in the middle and luminal portions, whereas weak staining and significant decrease in positivity were detected in the basal portions of the glands. One oestrogen receptor expression pattern resembled that of progesterone receptors. CONCLUSION The inverse expression patterns of SOX2 and hormone (especially progesterone) receptors suggest that endometrial epithelial stem/progenitor cells represent a subset of cells that reside in the basal portions of the endometrial glands in both the bovine and porcine endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiri Lenz
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary Sciences Brno, Brno, Czech Republic.,Department of Pathology, Znojmo Hospital, Znojmo, Czech Republic.,Cytohisto s.r.o., Břeclav, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Konecna
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary Sciences Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Frantisek Tichy
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary Sciences Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Dominika Machacova
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary Sciences Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Ludek Fiala
- Cytohisto s.r.o., Břeclav, Czech Republic.,Department of Sexology, Psychiatric Clinic, Faculty of Medicine, Charles University Pilsen, Pilsen, Czech Republic.,Institute of Sexology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | - Michal Kyllar
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Morphology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Holen JP, Woodworth JC, Tokach MD, Goodband RD, DeRouchey JM, Gebhardt JT, DeDecker AE, Martinez X. Evaluation of essential fatty acids in lactating sow diets on sow reproductive performance, colostrum and milk composition, and piglet survivability. J Anim Sci 2022; 100:6582517. [PMID: 35531991 PMCID: PMC9175298 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Mixed parity sows (n=3,451; PIC, Hendersonville, TN; parities 2 through 9) and their litters were used to evaluate the effects of essential fatty acid (EFA) intake on sow reproductive performance, piglet growth and survivability, and colostrum and milk composition. Our hypothesis, like observed in earlier research, was that increasing linoleic acid (LA) and α-linolenic acid (ALA) would improve sow and litter performance. At approximately d 112 of gestation, sows were randomly assigned within parity groups to 1 of 4 corn-soybean meal-wheat-based lactation diets that contained 0.5 (Control) or 3% choice white grease (CWG), 3% soybean oil (SO), or a combination of 3% soybean oil and 2% choice white grease (Combination). Thus, sows were provided diets with low LA and ALA in diets with CWG or high LA and ALA in diets that included soybean oil. Sows received their assigned EFA treatments until weaning and were then fed a common gestation and lactation diet in the subsequent reproductive cycle. Average daily feed intake during the lactation period increased (P < 0.05) for sows fed the Combination and CWG diets compared to sows fed the Control or SO diet. However, daily LA and ALA intakes of sows fed the Combination and SO diets were still greater (P < 0.05) than those of sows fed 0.5 or 3% CWG. Overall, sows consuming high EFA from the Combination or SO diets produced litters with heavier (P < 0.05) piglet weaning weights and greater (P < 0.05) litter ADG when compared to litters from sows fed diets with CWG that provided low EFA. Despite advantages in growth performance, there was no impact of sow EFA intake on piglet survivability (P > 0.10). Additionally, lactation diet EFA composition did not influence sow colostrum or milk dry matter, crude protein, or crude fat content (P > 0.10). However, LA and ALA content in colostrum and milk increased (P < 0.05) in response to elevated dietary EFA from SO. There was no evidence for differences (P > 0.10) in subsequent sow reproductive or litter performance due to previous lactation EFA intake. In conclusion, increased LA and ALA intake provided by soybean oil during lactation increased overall litter growth and pig weaning weights, reduced sow ADFI, but did not affect piglet survivability or subsequent performance of sows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia P Holen
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
| | - Jason C Woodworth
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
| | - Mike D Tokach
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
| | - Robert D Goodband
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
| | - Joel M DeRouchey
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
| | - Jordan T Gebhardt
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
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Nery da Silva A, Alves L, Osowski GV, Sabei L, Ferraz PA, Pugliesi G, Marques MG, Zanella R, Zanella AJ. Housing Conditions and a Challenge with Lipopolysaccharide on the Day of Estrus Can Influence Gene Expression of the Corpus Luteum in Gilts. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13050769. [PMID: 35627154 PMCID: PMC9141224 DOI: 10.3390/genes13050769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The corpus luteum (CL) is a temporary endocrine gland that plays a decisive role in the reproductive physiology of gilts. Recently, it has been suggested that exogenous factors may compromise the normal functioning of the CL. In the present study, we aimed to understand to what extent an acute and systemic challenge with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on the day of estrus could compromise gene expression of gilts’ CLs housed in different welfare conditions. For this, we housed 42 gilts in three different housing systems: crates, indoor group pens, and outdoor housing. Then, we challenged six females from each group with LPS and eight with saline (SAL) on the day of estrus. After slaughtering the gilts on the fifth day after the challenge, ovaries were collected for gene expression analysis by RT-qPCR. Housing system and LPS challenge did not have a significant interaction for any genes evaluated; thus, their effects were studied separately. We identified significant (p < 0.05) downregulation of the angiogenic genes VEGF and FTL1 among LPS-challenged animals. Meanwhile, we also observed upregulation of HSD3B1 gene among LPS-challenged animals. We found that STAR and LHCGR genes were differentially expressed depending on the housing system, which indicates that the environment may affect adaptation capabilities. Our results indicate that an acute health challenge on the estrus day alters CL gene expression; however, the role of the housing system remains uncertain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Nery da Silva
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga 05508-070, SP, Brazil; (A.N.d.S.); (L.A.); (G.V.O.); (L.S.)
| | - Luana Alves
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga 05508-070, SP, Brazil; (A.N.d.S.); (L.A.); (G.V.O.); (L.S.)
| | - Germana Vizzotto Osowski
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga 05508-070, SP, Brazil; (A.N.d.S.); (L.A.); (G.V.O.); (L.S.)
| | - Leandro Sabei
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga 05508-070, SP, Brazil; (A.N.d.S.); (L.A.); (G.V.O.); (L.S.)
| | - Priscila Assis Ferraz
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga 05508-070, SP, Brazil; (P.A.F.); (G.P.)
| | - Guilherme Pugliesi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga 05508-070, SP, Brazil; (P.A.F.); (G.P.)
| | - Mariana Groke Marques
- Embrapa Suínos e Aves, Concórdia 89715-899, SC, Brazil;
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Produção e Sanidade Animal, Instituto Federal Catarinense—IFC, Concórdia 89703-720, SC, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Zanella
- School of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine, University of Passo Fundo, Passo Fundo 99052-900, RS, Brazil;
| | - Adroaldo José Zanella
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga 05508-070, SP, Brazil; (A.N.d.S.); (L.A.); (G.V.O.); (L.S.)
- Correspondence:
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Park Y, Park YB, Lim SW, Lim B, Kim JM. Time Series Ovarian Transcriptome Analyses of the Porcine Estrous Cycle Reveals Gene Expression Changes during Steroid Metabolism and Corpus Luteum Development. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12030376. [PMID: 35158699 PMCID: PMC8833361 DOI: 10.3390/ani12030376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The estrous cycle, which is divided into follicular and luteal phases based on ovulation, is influenced by reproductive hormones which affect reproduction and cause changes in the reproductive system of the pig. As the main reproductive organ, the ovary is involved in ovulation and changes in the corpus luteum. We aimed to identify dynamic changes in gene expression through differentially expressed gene profiling and to provide a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms that occur in the pig ovary during the estrous cycle. The transcriptome analysis revealed that the dynamic change in gene expression was more activated in the luteal phase than in the follicular phase. Functional analysis revealed that the metestrus and diestrus periods are important in preparation for pregnancy or the next estrous cycle after ovulation. Abstract The porcine estrous cycle is influenced by reproductive hormones, which affect porcine reproduction and result in physiological changes in the reproductive organs. The ovary is involved in ovulation, luteinization, corpus luteum development, and luteolysis. Here, we aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the gene expression patterns in porcine ovarian transcriptomes during the estrous cycle through differentially expressed genes profiling and description of molecular mechanisms. The transcriptomes of porcine ovary were obtained during the estrous cycle at three-day intervals from day 0 to day 18 using RNA-seq. At seven time points of the estrous cycle, 4414 DEG were identified; these were classified into three clusters according to their expression patterns. During the late metestrus and diestrus periods, the expression in cluster 1 increased rapidly, and steroid biosynthesis was significant in the pathway. Cluster 2 gene expression patterns represented the cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction in significant pathways. In cluster 3, the hedgehog signaling pathway was selected as the significant pathway. Our study exhibited dynamic gene expression changes with these three different patterns of cluster 1, 2, and 3. The results helped identify the functions and related significant genes especially during the late metestrus and diestrus periods in the estrous cycle.
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Jang MJ, Lim C, Lim B, Kim JM. Integrated multiple transcriptomes in oviductal tissue across the porcine estrous cycle reveal functional roles in oocyte maturation and transport. J Anim Sci 2022; 100:skab364. [PMID: 34918099 PMCID: PMC8846367 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skab364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the changes in the swine female reproductive system is important for solving issues related to reproductive failure and litter size. Elucidating the regulatory mechanisms of the natural estrous cycle in the oviduct under non-fertilisation conditions can improve our understanding of its role in the reproductive system. Herein, whole transcriptome RNA sequencing of oviduct tissue samples was performed. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified for each time point relative to day 0 and classified into three clusters based on their expression patterns. Clusters 1 and 2 included genes involved in the physiological changes through the estrous cycle. Cluster 1 genes were mainly involved in PI3K-Akt signaling and steroid hormone biosynthesis pathways. Cluster 2 genes were involved in extracellular matrix-receptor interactions and protein digestion pathways. In Cluster 3, the DEGs were downregulated in the luteal phase; they were strongly associated with cell cycle, calcium signaling, and oocyte meiosis. The gene expression in the oviduct during the estrous cycle influenced oocyte transport and fertilization. Our findings provide a basis for successfully breeding pigs and elucidating the mechanisms underlying the changes in the pig oviduct during the estrous cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Jae Jang
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Functional Genomics and Bioinformatics Laboratory, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Chiwoong Lim
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Functional Genomics and Bioinformatics Laboratory, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Byeonghwi Lim
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Functional Genomics and Bioinformatics Laboratory, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Mo Kim
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Functional Genomics and Bioinformatics Laboratory, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do 17546, Republic of Korea
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36
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Monteiro MS, Muro BBD, Poor AP, Leal DF, Carnevale RF, Shiroma MP, Almond GW, Garbossa CAP, Moreno AM, Viana CHC. Effects of farrowing induction with prostaglandins on farrowing traits and piglet performance: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Theriogenology 2021; 180:1-16. [PMID: 34929429 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Induction of farrowing with prostaglandins is a way of increasing farrowing supervision and to provide adequate care for piglets in the first hours of life. However, some studies observed negative effects associated with induction, including decreased piglet viability, reduced birth weight and decreased colostrum yield. Furthermore, the farrowing response of sows to prostaglandins treatment varies among studies, largely influenced by the induction protocol applied. Thus, a systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out to evaluate the effects of farrowing induction with prostaglandins on stillbirth rate, birth weight, pre-weaning mortality, weaning weight, farrowing duration and colostrum and milk characteristics as well as the farrowing response to prostaglandin treatment. The interval from farrowing induction to onset of farrowing (IFIOF) was 31 h, and a twice application of prostaglandin increased by 37% the proportion of sows farrowing during the next working day. Prostaglandins had no effect on farrowing duration (P > 0.05). Piglet birth weight and weaning weight were only decreased (P < 0.05) when farrowing was induced ≥3 days before the expected farrowing date (based on herd average or in gestational length of the control group). Induction three or two days before the expected farrowing date had no effect on stillbirth rate; conversely, stillbirth rate was reduced by 28% (P < 0.05) when induction was performed one day before the expected farrowing date. Farrowing induction had no influence on pre-weaning mortality. The present study strengthened the observations that farrowing induction with prostaglandins is a valuable tool to reduce gestational length variation and to synchronize farrowing during the working day, allowing better assistance to sows and piglets. To obtain the maximum benefit of farrowing induction, it is recommended that induction should be performed one or two days before the expected farrowing date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matheus S Monteiro
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), Campus São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Bruno B D Muro
- Department of Nutrition and Animal Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), Campus Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - André P Poor
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), Campus São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Diego F Leal
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), Campus Pirassununga, SP, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Rafaella F Carnevale
- Department of Nutrition and Animal Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), Campus Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Marina P Shiroma
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), Campus São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Glen W Almond
- Department of Population Health & Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University (NCSU), Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Cesar A P Garbossa
- Department of Nutrition and Animal Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), Campus Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Andrea M Moreno
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), Campus São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Carlos H C Viana
- Pontifical Catholic University Minas, MG, Campus Poços de Caldas, Brazil
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Gonzalez-Ramiro H, Cuello C, Cambra JM, Gonzalez-Plaza A, Vazquez JM, Vazquez JL, Rodriguez-Martinez H, Gil MA, Lucas-Sanchez A, Parrilla I, Martinez EA. A Short-Term Altrenogest Treatment Post-weaning Followed by Superovulation Reduces Pregnancy Rates and Embryo Production Efficiency in Multiparous Sows. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:771573. [PMID: 34869743 PMCID: PMC8637542 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.771573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although embryo transfer (ET) is a biotechnology ready for the swine industry, there are factors to be solved, the availability of embryo donors as one. Multiparous sows as donors ought to be considered since weaning is a natural and efficient method for estrus synchronization. In addition, superovulation treatments at weaning are effective in increasing the efficiency of donor embryo production. However, ET programs typically require more donors than those available from a single weaning, imposing grouping several weanings to establish a batch for ET. Since short-term administration of Altrenogest is effective in delaying estrus after weaning without effects on ovulation and embryo development, we investigated how Altrenogest combined with superovulation would affect reproductive parameters and embryo quality and quantity of weaned multiparous donor sows. The sows were administered Altrenogest from the day of weaning for 14 (SS-14 group; N = 26), 7 (SS-7 group; N = 31) and 4 (SS-4 group; N = 32) days. The sows were superovulated with eCG 24 h after the last administration of Altrenogest and with hCG at the onset of estrus. Sows not treated with Altrenogest that were superovulated with eCG 24 h post-weaning and hCG at the onset of estrus (SC group; N = 37) and sows with natural estrus after weaning (C group; N = 34) were used as control groups. The percentage of sows showing estrus within 10 days was not affected by the treatment, but the interval from Altrenogest withdrawal to estrus was longer (P < 0.05) in the SS groups than the interval from weaning to estrus in the controls. SS treatments increased (P < 0.05) the percentage of sows with ovarian cysts and the development of polycystic ovaries. The pregnancy and the fertilization rates, and the overall embryo production efficiency were also negatively affected by the SS treatments (P < 0.05). Interestingly, almost 70% of the structures classified as unfertilized oocytes or degenerated embryos in sows from the SS groups were immature oocytes. In conclusion, although superovulation of weaned sows was highly efficient, short-term administration of Altrenogest in combination with superovulation had negative effects on most of the reproductive parameters assessed, particularly affecting the overall efficiency of pregnancy and embryo production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henar Gonzalez-Ramiro
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research, Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.,Department of Research and Development, Grupo Agropor I+D+I, AIE, Murcia, Spain
| | - Cristina Cuello
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research, Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Josep M Cambra
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research, Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Alejandro Gonzalez-Plaza
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research, Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Juan M Vazquez
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research, Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Jose L Vazquez
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research, Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Maria A Gil
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research, Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | | | - Inmaculada Parrilla
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research, Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Emilio A Martinez
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research, Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
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Bai JH, Qin YS, Zhang SL, Xu XL, Song YQ, Xiao LL, Feng T, Tian JH, Liu Y. A comparison of the reproductive performance in primiparous sows following two timed artificial insemination protocols. Animal 2021; 15:100410. [PMID: 34847398 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2021.100410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Timed artificial insemination (TAI) is an efficient reproductive technology in batch farrowing production that aids management in pig farms. However, the effect of TAI on the reproduction performance is still controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of two TAI protocols on the reproductive performance of primiparous sows. A total of 332 weaned sows were randomly allocated into three treatments. Sows assigned to Control (n = 110) were untreated and inseminated on each day in oestrus after weaning. Sows assigned to eG-TAI (n = 112) received equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) 24 h after weaning and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (Gonadorelin: GnRH) at oestrus, and were inseminated at 8 and 32 h later if oestrus at 0800, or 16 and 40 h later if oestrus at 1600. Sows assigned to 2e-TAI (n = 110) received eCG and GnRH 24 h and 96 h after weaning, respectively, and were inseminated 16 and 40 h after GnRH administration. Sows showing oestrus at GnRH administration or 64 h after were inseminated immediately, for a total of three inseminations. Ultrasonographic evaluations were performed to determine the follicular diameter and time of ovulation. Most sows in the 2e-TAI and eG-TAI groups ovulated 0-48 h after the GnRH injection. Our results indicated that oestrus rate within seven days after weaning in the experimental groups was higher, and weaning-to-oestrus interval was shorter than in the control group (99.3 h vs 113.5 h, P < 0.05). The breeding and farrowing rates in the experimental groups were significantly higher than in the control group (P < 0.05), while the numbers of total born, live-born and stillborn were not different among the three groups (Control: 12.7, 11.6 and 1.1; 2e-TAI: 12.4, 11.3 and 1.0; eG-TAI: 12.0, 11.4 and 0.4, respectively). These results indicated that TAI could ensure a high farrowing rate in primiparous sows under batch farrowing management.
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Affiliation(s)
- J H Bai
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - Y S Qin
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - S L Zhang
- Beijing University of Agricultural, College of Animal Science and Technology, Beijing 100096, China
| | - X L Xu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - Y Q Song
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - L L Xiao
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - T Feng
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - J H Tian
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Y Liu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China.
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Zhao Q, Tao C, Pan J, Wei Q, Zhu Z, Wang L, Liu M, Huang J, Yu F, Chen X, Zhang L, Li J. Equine chorionic gonadotropin pretreatment 15 days before fixed-time artificial insemination improves the reproductive performance of replacement gilts. Animal 2021; 15:100406. [PMID: 34844186 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2021.100406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) technology uses exogenous reproductive hormones to regulate the sexual cycle and ovulation of sows without oestrus identification, which improves the sow breeding utilisation rate, reduces the number of non-productive days, and elevates the efficiency of pig farm management. In this study, we aimed to optimise FTAI procedures. Healthy 190-day-old and about 90 kg Large White × Landrace crossing breed replacement gilts (n = 166) which were of unknown reproductive status were randomly selected and divided into three groups: a control group (n = 62), an eCG-15D group in which the gilts were pretreated with equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) injection 15 days before starting FTAI (n = 50), and an eCG-20D group pretreated with eCG injection 20 days before starting FTAI (n = 54). All three groups were then subjected to the same conventional FTAI procedure. Pigs were orally administered Altrenogest (ALT, 20 mg per pig per day) for 18 days and then 42 h after ALT feeding was stopped, they were injected with 1 000 IU eCG followed by 100 μg GnRH 80 h later. The gilts were inseminated for the first time 24 h after gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) injection and then again 16 h later. After 42 h of ALT feeding, gilts in the eCG-15D group displayed a higher follicular diameter until artificial insemination (AI) than those from the other groups (P < 0.05). In addition, the ovulation times were the most synchronised in the eCG-15D group, with 100% of the gilts ovulating before the second AI on day 25 of FTAI. Furthermore, the gilts in the eCG-15D group achieved the highest pregnancy rate (92%), farrowing rate (90%), total pigs born (11.59), and pigs born alive (11.18). Together, the findings of this study demonstrate that reproductive performance can be optimised by pretreating gilts with eCG 15 days before conventional FTAI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Q Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei Province 071000, China
| | - C Tao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei Province 071000, China
| | - J Pan
- Institute of Virology and Biotechnology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310021, China
| | - Q Wei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei Province 071000, China
| | - Z Zhu
- Institute of Virology and Biotechnology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310021, China
| | - L Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei Province 071000, China
| | - M Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei Province 071000, China
| | - J Huang
- Institute of Virology and Biotechnology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310021, China
| | - F Yu
- Institute of Virology and Biotechnology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310021, China
| | - X Chen
- Institute of Virology and Biotechnology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310021, China
| | - L Zhang
- Institute of Virology and Biotechnology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310021, China
| | - J Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei Province 071000, China.
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Zhou Z, Chen X, Zhu M, Wang W, Ao Z, Zhao J, Tang W, Hong L. Cathepsin D knockdown regulates biological behaviors of granulosa cells and affects litter size traits in goats. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2021; 22:893-905. [PMID: 34783220 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b2100366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cathepsin D (CTSD), the major lysosomal aspartic protease that is widely expressed in different tissues, potentially regulates the biological behaviors of various cells. Follicular granulosa cells are responsive to the increase of ovulation number, hence indirectly influencing litter size. However, the mechanism underlying the effect of CTSD on the behaviors of goat granulosa cells has not been fully elucidated. This study used immunohistochemistry to analyze CTSD localization in goat ovarian tissues. Moreover, western blotting was applied to examine the differential expression of CTSD in the ovarian tissues of monotocous and polytocous goats. Subsequently, the effects of CTSD knockdown on cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle, and the expression of candidate genes of the prolific traits, including bone morphogenetic protein receptor IB (BMPR-IB), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSHR), and inhibin α (INHA), were determined in granulosa cells. Results showed that CTSD was expressed in corpus luteum, follicle, and granulosa cells. Notably, CTSD expression in the monotocous group was significantly higher than that in the polytocous group. In addition, CTSD knockdown could improve granulosa cell proliferation, inhibit cell apoptosis, and significantly elevate the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and B cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), but it lowered the expression of Bcl-2-associated X (Bax) and caspase-3. Furthermore, CTSD knockdown significantly reduced the ratios of cells in the G0/G1 and G2/M phases but substantially increased the ratio of cells in the S phase. The expression levels of cyclin D2 and cyclin E were elevated followed by the obvious decline of cyclin A1 expression. However, the expression levels of BMPR-IB, FSHR, and INHA clearly increased as a result of CTSD knockdown. Hence, our findings demonstrate that CTSD is an important factor affecting the litter size trait in goats by regulating the granulosa cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle, and the expression of candidate genes of the prolific trait.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhinan Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Plateau Mountain Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Guizhou Province, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Xiang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Plateau Mountain Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Guizhou Province, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China.
| | - Min Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Plateau Mountain Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Guizhou Province, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Weiwei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Plateau Mountain Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Guizhou Province, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Zheng Ao
- Key Laboratory of Plateau Mountain Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Guizhou Province, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Jiafu Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Plateau Mountain Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Guizhou Province, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Wen Tang
- Key Laboratory of Plateau Mountain Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Guizhou Province, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Lei Hong
- Key Laboratory of Plateau Mountain Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Guizhou Province, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
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Pollard CL, Gibb Z, Hawdon A, Swegen A, Grupen CG. Supplementing media with NAD + precursors enhances the in vitro maturation of porcine oocytes. J Reprod Dev 2021; 67:319-326. [PMID: 34408103 PMCID: PMC8568614 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2021-080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro maturation (IVM) is an important reproductive technology used to produce embryos in vitro. However, the developmental potential of oocytes sourced for IVM is markedly lower than those matured in vivo. Previously, NAD+-elevating treatments have improved oocyte quality and embryo development in cattle and mice, suggesting that NAD+ is important during oocyte maturation. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of nicotinic acid (NA), nicotinamide (NAM) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) on oocyte maturation and subsequent embryo development. Porcine oocytes from small antral follicles were matured for 44 h in a defined maturation medium supplemented with NA, NAM and resveratrol or NMN. Mature oocytes were artificially activated and presumptive zygotes cultured for 7 days. Additionally, oocytes were matured without treatment then cultured for 7 days with NMN. Supplementing the IVM medium with NA improved maturation and blastocyst formation while NAM supplementation improved cleavage rates compared with untreated controls. Supplementing the IVM or embryo culture media with NMN had no effect on maturation or embryo development. The results show that supplementing the maturation medium with NA and NAM improved maturation and developmental potential of porcine oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charley-Lea Pollard
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, NSW 2570, Australia
| | - Zamira Gibb
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Azelle Hawdon
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, NSW 2570, Australia
- Present: Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Aleona Swegen
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, NSW 2308, Australia
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Christopher G Grupen
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, NSW 2570, Australia
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Studer JM, Kiefer ZE, Goetz BM, Keating AF, Baumgard LH, Rambo ZJ, Schweer WP, Wilson ME, Rapp C, Ross JW. Evaluation of the molecular response of corpora lutea to manganese-amino acid complex supplementation in gilts. J Anim Sci 2021; 99:6353575. [PMID: 34402900 PMCID: PMC8438545 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skab245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Porcine pregnancy establishment and maintenance are dependent on the formation of functional corpora lutea (CL). Manganese (Mn) is critical for CL function as it is a cofactor for Mn superoxide dismutase and enzymes involved in cholesterol synthesis. Previously, we have shown that luteal Mn content increased and luteal progesterone (P4) concentration decreased in the CL of gilts fed diets supplemented with an Mn–amino acid complex (Availa-Mn; Zinpro Corporation) compared with controls fed Mn sulfate. Importantly, serum P4 increased from 0 (estrus onset) to 12 d post estrus (dpe), as expected, but P4 abundance in circulation was not affected by dietary Mn source (P = 0.15). We hypothesized that a more bioavailable Mn source (which results in increased luteal Mn content) would alter the luteal proteome and abundance of mRNA associated with steroid biogenesis during the mid-luteal phase of the estrous cycle. Postpubertal gilts (n = 32) were assigned to one of the four gestation diets. The control diet (CON) contained 20 ppm of supplemental Mn in the form of Mn sulfate. Three additional diets included 20 (TRT1), 40 (TRT2), or 60 (TRT3) ppm of supplemental Mn in the form of a Mn–amino acid complex instead of Mn sulfate. Dietary treatment began at estrus synchronization (approximately 20 d before estrus) and continued through 12 dpe when gilts were euthanized and tissues were collected. Protein and total RNA extracts from the CL were used for proteomic analysis via label-free liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry to assess global protein abundance and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) to assess specific mRNA abundance, respectively. Compared with CON, 188, 382, and 401 proteins were differentially abundant (P < 0.10) in TRT1, TRT2, and TRT3, respectively. Gene Ontology enrichment software revealed that proteins involved in P4 signaling and cholesterol synthesis were downregulated in CL of gilts fed Mn–amino acid complex compared with controls. Quantitative RT-PCR showed that relative transcript abundance of genes encoding steroidogenic enzymes (CYP11A1 and StAR) in CL tissue was decreased in gilts from TRT2 compared with CON (P = 0.02), but TRT1 and TRT3 were not affected (P ≥ 0.30). Collectively, these data support our hypothesis that a more bioavailable dietary Mn source may influence luteal function by altering the abundance of protein and mRNA involved in steroidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie M Studer
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Zoe E Kiefer
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Brady M Goetz
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Aileen F Keating
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Lance H Baumgard
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Jason W Ross
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
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43
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Sankarganesh D, Kirkwood R, Angayarkanni J, Achiraman S, Archunan G. Pig pheromones and behaviors: A review. Theriogenology 2021; 175:1-6. [PMID: 34481226 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.08.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Chemical signals play indispensable roles in the communication and social behavior of many organisms. Pheromones are a class of chemical signals identified initially in insects. Later, it became evident that diverse animals secrete pheromones in their body exudates and from exocrine glands and use them for social communication. The pig is a vital food animal in which steroid pheromones have been identified and their behavioral effects known since the 1960s. More recently, non-steroidal pheromones have been identified. To date, studies have reported various pheromone sources in boars (saliva, urine, and glandular secretions) and sows (urine, mammary gland secretions, and feces) and pheromone-mediated behavioral consequences are evidenced. These include the boar effect on puberty onset and subsequent estrous behaviors as well as agonistic and avoidance behaviors. Recent research has facilitated the development and evaluation of pheromone-based applications and products to improve the welfare and reproductive performance of pigs. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge of pig pheromones, and their implications in behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Sankarganesh
- Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, 641 046, Tamilnadu, India; Department of Biotechnology, Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, Krishnankoil, 626126, Tamilnadu, India.
| | - Roy Kirkwood
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, 5371, Australia.
| | - Jayaraman Angayarkanni
- Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, 641 046, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Shanmugam Achiraman
- Department of Environmental Biotechnology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, 620024, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Govindaraju Archunan
- Department of Animal Science, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, 620024, Tamilnadu, India
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Costermans NGJ, Soede NM, van Tricht F, Blokland M, Kemp B, Keijer J, Teerds KJ. Follicular fluid steroid profile in sows: relationship to follicle size and oocyte quality†. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:740-749. [PMID: 31786607 PMCID: PMC7068110 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Identification of reliable characteristics of follicle quality and developmental competence has been pursued in numerous studies, but with inconsistent outcomes. Here, we aimed to identify these characteristics by analysis of the follicular fluid (FF) steroid profile in relation to cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) morphology and follicle size, followed by molecular substantiation. Multiparous sows at weaning were used to facilitate analysis at the start of the follicular phase of the oestrus cycle. Sows with a higher average follicle size (≥5 mm vs. < 5 mm) had a higher follicular fluid β-estradiol concentration, but did not differ in other measured steroids. Sows with high compared to low percentage high-quality COCs (<70% vs. ≥70% high-quality) had follicular fluid with a higher concentration of β-estradiol, 19-norandrostenedione, progesterone, and α-testosterone, while the concentration of cortisol was lower. Transcriptome analysis of granulosa cells of healthy follicles of sows with a high percentage high-quality COCs showed higher abundance of transcripts involved in ovarian steroidogenesis (e.g., CYP19A2 and 3, POR, VEGFA) and growth (IGF1) and differential abundance of transcripts involved in granulosa cell apoptosis (e.g., GADD45A, INHBB). Differences in aromatase transcript abundance (CYP19A1, 2 and 3) were confirmed at the protein level. In addition, sows with a high percentage high-quality COCs lost less weight during lactation and had higher plasma IGF1 concentration at weaning, which may have affected COC quality. To the best of our knowledge, this study is also the first to report the relation between FF steroid profile and COC quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- N G J Costermans
- Human and Animal Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands.,Adaptation Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - N M Soede
- Adaptation Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - F van Tricht
- Wageningen Food Safety Research (WFSR), Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - M Blokland
- Wageningen Food Safety Research (WFSR), Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - B Kemp
- Adaptation Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - J Keijer
- Human and Animal Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - K J Teerds
- Human and Animal Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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Parkes WS, Amargant F, Zhou LT, Villanueva CE, Duncan FE, Pritchard MT. Hyaluronan and Collagen Are Prominent Extracellular Matrix Components in Bovine and Porcine Ovaries. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12081186. [PMID: 34440360 PMCID: PMC8392036 DOI: 10.3390/genes12081186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a major component of the ovarian stroma. Collagen and hyaluronan (HA) are critical ovarian stromal ECM molecules that undergo age-dependent changes in the mouse and human. How these matrix components are regulated and organized in other mammalian species with reproductive characteristics similar to women such as cows and pigs, has not been systematically investigated. Therefore, we performed histological, molecular, and biochemical analyses to characterize collagen and HA in these animals. Bovine ovaries had more collagen than porcine ovaries when assessed biochemically, and this was associated with species-specific differences in collagen gene transcripts: Col3a1 was predominant in cow ovaries while Col1a1 was predominant in pig ovaries. We also observed more HA in the porcine vs. bovine ovary. HA was distributed across three molecular weight ranges (<100 kDa, 100-300 kDa, and >300 kDa) in ovarian tissue and follicular fluid, with tissue having more >300 kDa HA than the other two ranges. Transcripts for HA synthesis and degradation enzymes, Has3 and Hyal2, respectively, were predominant in cow ovaries, whereas Has2, Kiaa1199, and Tmem2 tended to be predominant in pig ovaries. Together, our findings have implications for the composition, organization, and regulation of the ovarian ECM in large mammalian species, including humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendena S. Parkes
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; (W.S.P.); (C.E.V.)
| | - Farners Amargant
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (F.A.); (L.T.Z.)
| | - Luhan T. Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (F.A.); (L.T.Z.)
| | - Cecilia E. Villanueva
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; (W.S.P.); (C.E.V.)
| | - Francesca E. Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (F.A.); (L.T.Z.)
- Correspondence: (F.E.D.); (M.T.P.)
| | - Michele T. Pritchard
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; (W.S.P.); (C.E.V.)
- Institute for Reproductive and Perinatal Research, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
- Correspondence: (F.E.D.); (M.T.P.)
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Silva PCP, Brasil OO, Souto PLG, Moreira NH, da Silva JP, Silva BDM, Ramos AF. Fixed-time artificial insemination protocols on brazilian locally adapted breed gilts on ovulatory response and embryo production. Anim Reprod 2021; 18:e20200776. [PMID: 34122655 PMCID: PMC8189352 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2020-0776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to use estrus synchronization protocols to favor fixed-time artificial insemination and consequently fixed-time embryo collection, and increase embryo production using eCG, in gits. In a cross over design, nine Piau breed gilts were subjected to 18 days of oral progesterone; P4 group did not receive any further; GnRH group received 25µg of GnRH 104 hours after the final application of P4; and eCG+GnRH group received 1000IU of eCG 24 hours after the final P4 in addition to GnRH for subsequent embryo collection, that was performed six days after first AI, by laparotomy. Artificial insemination was performed after 12 and 24 hours of estrus in P4 group, and 128 and 144 hours in GnRH and eCG+GnRH groups. The number of CL (8.6±3.9; 8.3±2.1; 26.7±15.0) and anovulatory follicles (4.3±3.7; 3.9±3.9; 17.2±9.5) was higher in the eCG+GnRH gilts (P<0.05). However, the use of 1000 IU of eCG reduced (P<0.05) the number of total structures (5.2±3.6; 5.1±3.1; 1.7±2.7), viable embryos (5.0±3.5; 4.8±3.3; 0.4±0.7), freezable embryos (3.6±3.4; 3.3±3.8; 0.1±0.3) and recovery rate (63.7±38.9; 58.6±24.7; 5.38±9.5). P4 and GnRH protocols were effective in the production and recovery of embryos. However, the use of 1000 IU of eCG, 24 hours after P4, was not effective in promoting the production of embryos, although the animals had superovulated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Oscar Oliveira Brasil
- Departamento de Ciências Animais, Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brasil
| | - Paula Lorena Grangeira Souto
- Departamento de Ciências Animais, Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brasil
| | - Nathalia Hack Moreira
- Departamento de Ciências Animais, Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brasil
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Suárez-Usbeck A, Mitjana O, Tejedor MT, Bonastre C, Sistac J, Ubiergo A, Falceto MV. Single Fixed-Time Post-Cervical Insemination in Gilts with Buserelin. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:1567. [PMID: 34072000 PMCID: PMC8226837 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Current protocols for gilts recommend the deposit of multiple semen doses in the cervix each 12-24 h after estrus detection. Our objectives were: (1) to determine the effect of buserelin and a single fixed-time artificial insemination using the new post-cervical artificial insemination technique (FTAI-PCAI) on reproductive and productive performance in gilts, and (2) to compare this protocol with conventional estrus detection and double PCAI without hormonal induction. In the control group (C; n = 240), gilts were inseminated twice (8 and 12 h from estrus onset). Gilts in the treatment group (T; n = 226) received buserelin (10 μg, intramuscular) 120 h after altrenogest treatment (18 d) and one single PCAI 30-33 h after buserelin administration. The groups did not differ in reproductive and production performance (p > 0.05). The T group showed greater piglet birth weight and shorter estrus duration (p < 0.001). Delivery batch length differed significantly depending on the season (p < 0.05); the shortest length corresponded to autumn. Both groups only differed significantly in spring (p = 0.018), with a shorter length in the T group. This new FTAI-PCAI protocol with buserelin is recommended in gilts, helping with optimization of genetic diffusion, boars, and semen doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Suárez-Usbeck
- Department of Animal Pathology, Agroalimentary Institute of Aragon-IA2, University of Zaragoza-CITA, C/Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain; (A.S.-U.); (O.M.); (C.B.); (M.V.F.)
| | - Olga Mitjana
- Department of Animal Pathology, Agroalimentary Institute of Aragon-IA2, University of Zaragoza-CITA, C/Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain; (A.S.-U.); (O.M.); (C.B.); (M.V.F.)
| | - María Teresa Tejedor
- Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Animal Genetics, Genetic s Area, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zaragoza, C/Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
- CIBER CV (University of Zaragoza—IIS), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zaragoza, C/Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Cristina Bonastre
- Department of Animal Pathology, Agroalimentary Institute of Aragon-IA2, University of Zaragoza-CITA, C/Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain; (A.S.-U.); (O.M.); (C.B.); (M.V.F.)
| | - Jorge Sistac
- Granja Fabardo (Mazana Grupo Empresarial), 22480 Capella, Huesca, Spain;
| | | | - María Victoria Falceto
- Department of Animal Pathology, Agroalimentary Institute of Aragon-IA2, University of Zaragoza-CITA, C/Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain; (A.S.-U.); (O.M.); (C.B.); (M.V.F.)
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Parraguez VH, Sales F, Peralta OA, De los Reyes M, Campos A, González J, Peralta W, Cabezón C, González-Bulnes A. Maternal Supplementation with Herbal Antioxidants during Pregnancy in Swine. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:658. [PMID: 33922758 PMCID: PMC8146391 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10050658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The effects of a combined supplementation with herbal antioxidants during pregnancy on reproductive traits and piglet performance (number of live, dead, and mummified newborns and litter weight at birth and individual body weight at both birth and weaning) were assessed in a total of 1027 sows (504 treated and 523 control females) kept under commercial breeding conditions. The supplementation increased the number of live-born piglets (13.64 ± 0.11 vs. 12.96 ± 0.13 in the controls; p = 0.001) and the total litter weight, decreasing the incidence of low-weight piglets without affecting the number of stillbirths and mummified newborns. Such an effect was modulated by the number of parity and the supplementation, with supplementation increasing significantly the number of living newborns in the first, second, sixth, and seventh parities (0.87, 1.10, 1.49, and 2.51 additional piglets, respectively; p < 0.05). The evaluation of plasma vitamin concentration and biomarkers of oxidative stress (total antioxidant capacity, TAC, and malondialdehyde concentration, MDA) performed in a subset of farrowing sows and their lighter and heavier piglets showed that plasma levels of both vitamins were significantly higher in the piglets than in their mothers (p < 0.05 for vitamin C and p < 0.005 for vitamin E), with antioxidant supplementation increasing significantly such concentrations. Concomitantly, there were no differences in maternal TAC but significantly higher values in piglets from supplemented sows (p < 0.05). On the other hand, supplementation decreased plasma MDA levels both in the sows and their piglets (p < 0.05). Finally, the piglets from supplemented mothers showed a trend for a higher weaning weight (p = 0.066) and, specifically, piglets with birth weights above 1 kg showed a 7.4% higher weaning weight (p = 0.024). Hence, the results of the present study, with high robustness and translational value by offering data from more than 1000 pregnancies under standard breeding conditions, supports that maternal supplementation with herbal antioxidants during pregnancy significantly improves reproductive efficiency, litter traits, and piglet performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Víctor H. Parraguez
- Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, 8820808 Santiago, Chile; (O.A.P.); (M.D.l.R.)
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Chile, 8820808 Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Oscar A. Peralta
- Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, 8820808 Santiago, Chile; (O.A.P.); (M.D.l.R.)
| | - Mónica De los Reyes
- Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, 8820808 Santiago, Chile; (O.A.P.); (M.D.l.R.)
| | | | | | | | | | - Antonio González-Bulnes
- Departamento de Producción y Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, C/Tirant lo Blanc, 7. Alfara del Patriarca, 46115 Valencia, Spain;
- Departamento de Toxicología y Farmacología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Wiegand TLT, Sollmann N, Bonke EM, Umeasalugo KE, Sobolewski KR, Plesnila N, Shenton ME, Lin AP, Koerte IK. Translational neuroimaging in mild traumatic brain injury. J Neurosci Res 2021; 100:1201-1217. [PMID: 33789358 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are common with an estimated 27.1 million cases per year. Approximately 80% of TBIs are categorized as mild TBI (mTBI) based on initial symptom presentation. While in most individuals, symptoms resolve within days to weeks, in some, symptoms become chronic. Advanced neuroimaging has the potential to characterize brain morphometric, microstructural, biochemical, and metabolic abnormalities following mTBI. However, translational studies are needed for the interpretation of neuroimaging findings in humans with respect to the underlying pathophysiological processes, and, ultimately, for developing novel and more targeted treatment options. In this review, we introduce the most commonly used animal models for the study of mTBI. We then summarize the neuroimaging findings in humans and animals after mTBI and, wherever applicable, the translational aspects of studies available today. Finally, we highlight the importance of translational approaches and outline future perspectives in the field of translational neuroimaging in mTBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim L T Wiegand
- cBRAIN, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | - Nico Sollmann
- cBRAIN, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- TUM-Neuroimaging Center, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Elena M Bonke
- cBRAIN, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
- Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | - Kosisochukwu E Umeasalugo
- cBRAIN, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
- Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
- Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | - Kristen R Sobolewski
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Center for Clinical Spectroscopy, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nikolaus Plesnila
- Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (Synergy), Munich, Germany
| | - Martha E Shenton
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Psychiatry Neuroimaging Laboratory, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alexander P Lin
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Center for Clinical Spectroscopy, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Psychiatry Neuroimaging Laboratory, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Inga K Koerte
- cBRAIN, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
- Psychiatry Neuroimaging Laboratory, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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50
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Meng L, Zhao K, Wang CC, Tao J, Wu Z, Teerds K, Zhang S. Characterization of Long Non-Coding RNA Profiles in Porcine Granulosa Cells of Healthy and Atretic Antral Follicles: Implications for a Potential Role in Apoptosis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052677. [PMID: 33800928 PMCID: PMC7962063 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in multiple biological processes including ovarian follicular development. Here we aimed to gain novel information regarding lncRNAs transcriptome profiles in porcine granulosa cells of advanced atretic antral (AA) and healthy antral (HA) follicles using RNA-seq. A total of 11,321 lncRNAs including 10,813 novel and 508 annotated lncRNAs were identified, of which 173 lncRNAs were differentially expressed (DE-lncRNAs); ten of these were confirmed by qRT-PCR. Gene Ontology indicated that DE-lncRNAs associated with developmental processes were highly enriched. Pathway analysis demonstrated predicted cis- and trans-targets of DE-lncRNAs. Potential mRNA targets of up-regulated DE-lncRNAs were mainly enriched in apoptosis related pathways, while targeted genes of downregulated DE-lncRNAs were primarily enriched in metabolism and ovarian steroidogenesis pathways. Linear regression analyses showed that expression of upregulated DE-lncRNAs was significantly associated with apoptosis related genes. NOVEL_00001850 is the most-downregulated DE-lncRNA (FDR = 0.04, FC = -6.53), of which miRNA binding sites were predicted. KEGG analysis of its downregulated target genes revealed that ovarian steroidogenesis was the second most highlighted pathway. qRT-PCR and linear regression analysis confirmed the expression and correlation of its potential targeted gene, CYP19A1, a key gene involved in estradiol synthesis. Our results indicate that lncRNAs may participate in granulosa cells apoptosis and thus antral follicular atresia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Meng
- National Engineering Research Center of Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (L.M.); (K.Z.); (J.T.); (Z.W.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Key Lab of Chicken Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China;
| | - Kun Zhao
- National Engineering Research Center of Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (L.M.); (K.Z.); (J.T.); (Z.W.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Key Lab of Chicken Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Chi Chiu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China;
| | - Jian Tao
- National Engineering Research Center of Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (L.M.); (K.Z.); (J.T.); (Z.W.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Key Lab of Chicken Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Zhenfang Wu
- National Engineering Research Center of Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (L.M.); (K.Z.); (J.T.); (Z.W.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Key Lab of Chicken Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Katja Teerds
- Human and Animal Physiology, Wageningen University, De Elst 1, 6708 WD Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Correspondence: (K.T.); (S.Z.)
| | - Shouquan Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center of Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (L.M.); (K.Z.); (J.T.); (Z.W.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Key Lab of Chicken Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Correspondence: (K.T.); (S.Z.)
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