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Andrews CJ, Yapura J, Potter MA, McGlade K, Thomas DG. Prolonged glucocorticoid administration affects oocyte morphology in cats (Felis catus) undergoing an ovarian stimulation protocol. Theriogenology 2023; 208:77-87. [PMID: 37302246 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
While captivity-related stress and the associated rise in baseline glucocorticoid (GC) concentrations have been linked to ovarian quiescence in some felid species, no study has examined the effects of elevated GC on oocyte quality. This study examined the effects of exogenous GC administration on the ovarian response and oocyte quality of domestic cats after an ovarian stimulation protocol. Entire mature female cats were divided into treatment (n = 6) and control (n = 6) groups. Cats in the GC treatment (GCT) group were given 1 mg kg-1 oral prednisolone daily from Day 0-45. All cats (n = 12) were given 0.088 mg kg-1 day-1 progesterone orally from Day 0-37, before treatment with 75 IU eCG im to induce follicular growth on Day 40, followed by 50 IU hCG im 80 h later to induce ovulation. Cats were ovariohysterectomised 30 h after the hCG treatment. Blood samples were collected on Days 0, 10, 30 and 40 (prior to eCG treatment), 80 h after eCG treatment, and on Day 45 for cortisol, glucose, prednisolone, oestradiol, and progesterone analysis. Cortisol concentrations did not differ between treatment groups throughout the study. Mean glucose concentrations were higher in the GCT cats (P = 0.004). Prednisolone was undetectable in all samples. Oestradiol and progesterone concentrations confirmed that the eCG treatment stimulated follicular activity and ovulation in all cats. Following ovariohysterectomy, the ovarian responses were graded (1 = excellent, 4 = poor) and oocytes retrieved from the oviducts. Each oocyte was given a total oocyte score (TOS: using an 9-point scale, 8 = best) based on four parameters: oocyte morphology, size, ooplasm uniformity and granularity, and zona pellucida (ZP) thickness and variation. Ovulation was confirmed in all cats, with a mean of 10.5 ± 1.1 ovulations per cat. Ovarian mass, ovarian response, number of ovulations, and oocyte recovery did not differ between groups. Oocyte diameter did not differ between the groups, but the ZP was thinner in the GCT group (3.1 ± 0.3 μm vs. 4.1 ± 0.3 μm, P = 0.03). The TOS was similar between treatment and control cats, but the ooplasm grade was lower (1.5 ± 0.1 vs. 1.9 ± 0.1, P = 0.01) and there was a tendency for ZP grade to be poorer (0.8 ± 0.1 vs. 1.2 ± 0.2; P = 0.08) in the treatment group. In conclusion, the GC treatment resulted in morphological changes to oocytes collected following ovarian stimulation. Whether these changes would affect fertility warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Andrews
- Animal Science Group, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Jimena Yapura
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Murray A Potter
- Wildlife and Ecology Group, School of Natural Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Kevanne McGlade
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - David G Thomas
- Animal Science Group, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
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2
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Goericke-Pesch S, Packeiser EM. Reproductive Management in Catteries: Optimising health and wellbeing through veterinarian-breeder collaboration. J Feline Med Surg 2022; 24:881-904. [PMID: 36002135 PMCID: PMC10812226 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x221118760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
PRACTICAL RELEVANCE Many veterinarians - even those engaged in small animal reproduction - are uncomfortable with taking care of cat breeders or being in charge of catteries. Likely reasons for this are that feline reproduction is largely under-represented in undergraduate and graduate reproduction teaching, as well as in postgraduate education and science, whereas cat breeders themselves are often well informed and actively share knowledge with other cat breeders via the internet and social media. CLINICAL CHALLENGES A variety of problems can exist within a cattery, and collaboration between veterinarian and breeder to solve these is ultimately beneficial for the breeder, for the veterinarian, and for the health and wellbeing of the individual cats and of the cattery as a whole. AIM This review presents a comprehensive overview of aspects of cattery management that might negatively impact reproduction, including sanitation, hygiene and infectious disease control. It also discusses monitoring of reproductive performance, breeding recommendations, and the diagnostic and therapeutic approach to some common and specific problems. EQUIPMENT AND TECHNICAL SKILLS Reproductive management in the cattery requires no specialised equipment, as such. What it does need is an open mind, in terms of seeing how things are done, an open ear, for listening to the breeder, and the veterinarian's clinical skills in palpation, auscultation and, where required, further examination of the animals. Keeping abreast of the latest information on infectious diseases, disinfection and genetics ensures proper advice is provided. EVIDENCE BASE Current knowledge of reproductive management in catteries is summarised in order to apply an evidence-based approach, whenever possible. Notwithstanding, much of the information remains empirical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Goericke-Pesch
- Reproductive Unit – Clinic for Small Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Bünteweg 15, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Eva-Maria Packeiser
- Reproductive Unit – Clinic for Small Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Bünteweg 15, 30559 Hannover, Germany
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Pinet-Charvet C, Fleurot R, Derouin-Tochon F, de Graaf S, Druart X, Tsikis G, Taragnat C, Teixeira-Gomes AP, Labas V, Moreau T, Cayla X, Duittoz AH. Beta-nerve growth factor stimulates spontaneous electrical activity of in vitro embryonic mouse GnRH neurons through a P75 mediated-mechanism. Sci Rep 2020; 10:10654. [PMID: 32606357 PMCID: PMC7326925 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67665-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The control of ovulation helps guarantee the success of reproduction and as such, contributes to the fitness of a species. In mammals, two types of ovulation are observed: induced and spontaneous ovulation. Recent work on camelids, that are induced ovulators, highlighted the role of a factor present in seminal plasma, beta Nerve Growth Factor (β-NGF), as the factor that triggers ovulation in a GnRH dependent manner. In the present work, we characterized alpaca β-NGF (aβ-NGF) and its 3D structure and compared it with human recombinant β-NGF (hβ-NGF). We showed that the β-NGF enriched fraction of alpaca semen and the human recombinant protein, both stimulated spontaneous electrical activity of primary GnRH neurons derived from mouse embryonic olfactory placodes. This effect was dose-dependent and mediated by p75 receptor signaling. P75 receptors were found expressed in vitro by olfactory ensheathing cells (OEC) in close association with GnRH neurons and in vivo by tanycytes in close vicinity to GnRH fibers in adult mouse. Altogether, these results suggested that β-NGF induced ovulation through an increase in GnRH secretion provoked by a glial dependent P75 mediated mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Pinet-Charvet
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC) UMR7247 INRA, CNRS, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC), ComUE Centre-Val de Loire, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Poitiers, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Renaud Fleurot
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC) UMR7247 INRA, CNRS, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Flavie Derouin-Tochon
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC) UMR7247 INRA, CNRS, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Simon de Graaf
- Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Xavier Druart
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC) UMR7247 INRA, CNRS, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Guillaume Tsikis
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC) UMR7247 INRA, CNRS, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Catherine Taragnat
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC) UMR7247 INRA, CNRS, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Ana-Paula Teixeira-Gomes
- Infectiologie et Santé Publique (ISP) UMR1282, INRA, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Tours, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Valérie Labas
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC) UMR7247 INRA, CNRS, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Thierry Moreau
- Biologie des Oiseaux et Aviculture (BOA) UMR Centre INRA Val de Loire, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Xavier Cayla
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC) UMR7247 INRA, CNRS, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Anne H Duittoz
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC) UMR7247 INRA, CNRS, Centre INRA Val de Loire, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France.
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Martínez F, Rodriguez-Purata J, Beatriz Rodríguez D, Clua E, Rodriguez I, Coroleu B. Desogestrel versus antagonist injections for LH suppression in oocyte donation cycles: a crossover study. Gynecol Endocrinol 2019; 35:878-883. [PMID: 31062995 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2019.1604661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
To study whether ovarian response to corifollitropin among oocyte donors (OD) is different when oral desogestrel (DSG) is used to block the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge when compared to GnRH-antagonist use. This is a retrospective, cohort study at a private, university-based, IVF center including 35 OD. Patients underwent two stimulation cycles under corifollitropin alfa (CFT), one under an antagonist and another under DSG, between February 2015 and May 2017. In antagonist cycles, daily ganirelix was administered since a leading follicle reached 14 mm. In the DSG cycles, daily oral DSG was prescribed. The main outcome measure was oocytes retrieved. Compared to antagonist cycles, cycles under DSG received fewer injections (10.3 ± 2.8 vs. 5.0 ± 2.1, p < .001), nominally lower total supplementary gonadotropin dose (497.4 ± 338.9I U vs. 442.9 ± 332.8 IU, p=.45) with a lower total cost of medication (1018.6 ± 191.0€ vs. 813.8 ± 145.9€, p<.001). There were no differences in the total number of retrieved oocytes between groups (17.4 ± 7.5 vs. 18.6 ± 8.9, p=.34). In the corresponding oocyte recipients, clinical pregnancy rate was similar between groups: 52.0% vs. 58.6%, respectively (p=.78). ODs' stimulation's response under DSG is similar when compared to (17.4 ± 7.5 vs. 18.6 ± 8.9, p=.34) but associated with less injections and lower medication costs. The main advantage of this strategy is its simplicity, an aspect of utmost importance in the management of ODs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisca Martínez
- Reproductive Medicine Service, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Elisabet Clua
- Reproductive Medicine Service, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ignacio Rodriguez
- Reproductive Medicine Service, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Barcelona, Spain
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Thuwanut P, Brown JL, Comizzoli P, Crosier AE. Responsiveness of the cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) ovary to exogenous gonadotropins after preemptive oral progestin treatment. Theriogenology 2019; 138:39-46. [PMID: 31284220 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.07.001] [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: 01/23/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Control of ovarian function in cheetahs is sub-optimal, which currently limits the integration of assisted reproductive techniques into the genetic management of that endangered species. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of preemptive progestin treatment on the quality of ovarian responses after exogenous gonadotropin stimulation in cheetahs. Adult females received either 1) 200 IU equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) followed with 3,000 IU porcine luteinizing hormone (pLH) (intramuscular route) (n = 5; control group) or 2) similar eCG/pLH administration preceded by a 7-day treatment with oral progestin (0.1 mg/kg altrenogest; ALT group; n = 7). At 42 h post-pLH administration, a series of metrics was assessed via laparoscopy (number of follicles ≥ 2 mm, number of corpora lutea, oviduct and uterine cornua diameter and overall vascularization). Concentrations of fecal estradiol, progesterone and glucocorticoid metabolites (FEM, FPM, and FGM, respectively) were measured by enzyme immunoassay for 3 wk before ALT treatment (Period 1), 7 d during ovarian suppression period (Period 2), throughout eCG/LH treatment and laparoscopy (Period 3), and 6 wk following laparoscopy (Period 4). Overall, nine out of 12 cheetahs (4/5 in control and 5/7 ALT group) had freshly-formed corpora lutea at the time of laparoscopy. Mean follicle and corpora lutea numbers in the control versus ALT group were not different (P > 0.05). Overall measurements and vascularization scores also did not differ (P > 0.05) among groups. FEM average concentrations increased (P ≤ 0.05) in response to eCG for the ALT-treated females between Periods 2 and 3 and were sustained during Period 4. However, FEM average concentrations did not vary (P > 0.05) for control females throughout Periods 1-4. Post-ovulatory FPM average concentrations (Period 4) did not differ (P > 0.05) between the ALT-treated females and controls. FPM average concentration from both groups increased in Period 4 compared to Periods 1-3 (P ≤ 0.05). Females receiving the ALT treatment also had lower (P ≤ 0.05) FGM metabolite average concentrations than control females during ovarian suppression (suggesting adrenal suppression). Collective results suggest that ovarian response to gonadotropin treatment in the cheetah was improved following oral progestin administration due to the normative increase in estradiol following stimulation for these females compared with control. This treatment should lead to more effective timed assisted reproduction procedures for this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweena Thuwanut
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, Washington DC, 20008, USA; Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Janine L Brown
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, Washington DC, 20008, USA
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, Washington DC, 20008, USA
| | - Adrienne E Crosier
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, Washington DC, 20008, USA.
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6
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Crosier AE, Comizzoli P, Koester DC, Wildt DE. Circumventing the natural, frequent oestrogen waves of the female cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) using oral progestin (Altrenogest). Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 29:1486-1498. [PMID: 27483379 DOI: 10.1071/rd16007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cheetah are induced ovulators, experiencing short, variable oestrogen waves year-round. Exogenous gonadotrophin administration induces ovulation, but success is variable and often improves if ovaries are quiescent. After affirming the presence of short-term oestrogenic waves, we examined the effect of the timing of administration of exogenous equine and human chorionic gonadotrophins (eCG-hCG) within the oestrogen concentration pattern on subsequent follicle development and oocyte and corpus luteum quality. We also investigated ovarian suppression using an oral progestin (Altrenogest, 7 days) and assessed whether Altrenogest moderated adrenal activity by reducing glucocorticoid metabolites. All cheetahs exhibited short (every ~7-10 days), sporadic, year-round increases in faecal oestradiol punctuated by unpredictable periods (4-10 weeks) of baseline oestradiol (anoestrous). Gonadotrophin (eCG-hCG) efficacy was not affected by oestradiol 'wave' pattern if administered ≥3 days after an oestrogen peak. Such cheetahs produced normative faecal progestagen patterns and higher numbers (P<0.06) of mature oocytes than females given gonadotrophins ≤2 days after an oestradiol peak. Altrenogest supplementation expanded the interval between oestradiol peaks to 12.9 days compared with 7.3 days without progestin pretreatment. Altrenogest-fed females excreted less (P<0.05) glucocorticoid metabolites than non-supplemented counterparts. Results show that Altrenogest is effective for suppressing follicular activity, may contribute to reduced glucocorticoid production and may result in more effective ovulation induction via gonadotrophin therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrienne E Crosier
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, 3001 Connecticut Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20008, USA
| | - Diana C Koester
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - David E Wildt
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
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7
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Thongphakdee A, Tipkantha W, Punkong C, Chatdarong K. Monitoring and controlling ovarian activity in wild felids. Theriogenology 2018; 109:14-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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8
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Leonel EC, Vilela JM, Paiva RE, Jivago JL, Amaral RS, Lucci CM. Restoration of fresh cat ovarian tissue function by autografting to subcutaneous tissue: A pilot study. Theriogenology 2018; 105:97-106. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2017] [Revised: 09/04/2017] [Accepted: 09/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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9
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SUCCESSFUL LAPAROSCOPIC OVIDUCTAL ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION IN THE CLOUDED LEOPARD (NEOFELIS NEBULOSA) IN THAILAND. J Zoo Wildl Med 2017; 48:804-812. [DOI: 10.1638/2016-0287.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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10
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Double ovarian stimulation during the follicular and luteal phase in women ≥38 years: a retrospective case-control study. Reprod Biomed Online 2017; 35:678-684. [PMID: 29030068 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2017.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Revised: 08/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that double ovarian stimulation could obtain more oocytes in women with poor ovarian response. This retrospective case-control study aimed to investigate the efficacy of double ovarian stimulation in older women. One hundred and sixteen women aged ≥38 years who received double ovarian stimulation were assigned to the study, with 103 divided into four groups according to follicular-phase ovarian stimulation protocols, including gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist short protocol (n = 27), gonadotrophin-releasing hormone antagonist protocol (n = 32), mild stimulation protocol (n = 21) and medrocyprogesterone acetate (MPA) pituitary down-regulation protocol (n = 23). Numbers of oocytes retrieved and available embryos after double ovarian stimulation were more than double those obtained after follicular-phase ovarian stimulation alone. In total 81.90% of patients had available embryos, and the cancellation rate decreased from 37.07% to 18.10%. Forty-eight cases underwent 50 cryopreserved embryo transfer cycles, with a 22.00% clinical pregnancy rate. The implantation rate (10.53% versus 10.67%) was similar between the embryos derived from first and second stimulations. The results suggest that double ovarian stimulation could increase the chances of achieving pregnancy by accumulating more oocytes/embryos in a short time, which might serve as a useful strategy for older women.
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11
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DeCaluwe HB, Wielebnowski NC, Howard J, Pelican KM, Ottinger MA. Characterization of multiple pathways modulating aggression in the male clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa
). Zoo Biol 2016; 35:474-486. [DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2015] [Revised: 07/21/2016] [Accepted: 08/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Heather B. DeCaluwe
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences; University of Maryland; College Park Maryland
- Center for Species Survival; Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute; Front Royal Virginia
| | | | - JoGayle Howard
- Center for Species Survival; Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute; Front Royal Virginia
| | - Katharine M. Pelican
- Department of Veterinary Preventative Medicine; College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota; Minneapolis Minnesota
| | - Mary Ann Ottinger
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry; University of Houston; Houston Texas
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12
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Stewart RA, Crosier AE, Pelican KM, Pukazhenthi BS, Sitzmann BD, Porter TE, Wildt DE, Ottinger MA, Howard J. Progestin priming before gonadotrophin stimulation and AI improves embryo development and normalises luteal function in the cat. Reprod Fertil Dev 2015; 27:360-71. [PMID: 24300570 DOI: 10.1071/rd13274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2013] [Accepted: 10/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Exogenous gonadotrophins administered before AI can adversely alter endocrine dynamics and inhibit embryo development in felids. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that priming the domestic cat ovary with progestin mitigates the negative influence of gonadotrophin therapy by normalising early embryogenesis and luteal function. Queens were given either: (1) progestin pretreatment plus chorionic gonadotrophins (n=8; primed); or (2) gonadotrophins only (n=8; unprimed). Ovulatory response was assessed laparoscopically, and cats with fresh corpora lutea (CL) were inseminated in utero. Ovariohysterectomy was performed 3 days later to recover intra-oviductal embryos for in vitro culture; one ovary was prepared for histology, and CL from the remaining ovary were excised and assessed for progesterone content and targeted gene expression. Of the six primed and seven unprimed queens inseminated, embryo(s) were recovered from five individuals per group. Embryos from progestin-primed donors more closely simulated normal stage in vivo development (P<0.05). No 2- or 4-cell embryos from either group developed beyond 16-cells in vitro; however, 50% of unprimed and 66.7% of primed (P>0.05) 5-16-cell embryos progressed to morulae or blastocysts by Day 4 of culture. Although histological characteristics were unaffected by progestin priming (P>0.05), luteal progesterone was unusually high (P<0.05) in unprimed compared with primed cats (72.4±5.8 vs. 52.2±5.5 ng mg(-1), respectively). Two genes associated with progesterone biosynthesis (luteinising hormone receptor and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase) were upregulated in unprimed versus primed individuals (P=0.05 and P<0.05, respectively), indicating potential mechanistic pathways for the protective influence of pre-emptive progestin treatment. Building on earlier findings that progestin priming prevents spontaneous ovulation, increases ovarian sensitivity to gonadotrophins and ensures a normative endocrine environment, the present study demonstrates that pretreatment with this steroid also benefits embryo development and normalisation of early luteal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary A Stewart
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Adrienne E Crosier
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Katharine M Pelican
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Budhan S Pukazhenthi
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Brandon D Sitzmann
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Tom E Porter
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - David E Wildt
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Mary Ann Ottinger
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - JoGayle Howard
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
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Micheletti T, Brown JL, Walker SL, Cubas ZS, Furtado PV, Putman SB, de Moraes W, de Oliveira MJ, de Oliveira CA, Moreira N. The use of altrenogest to avoid hyperestrogenism after eCG-hCG ovulation induction in southern tigrina (Leopardus guttulus). Theriogenology 2015; 84:575-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2014] [Revised: 04/14/2015] [Accepted: 04/15/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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14
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Goericke-Pesch S, Wehrend A, Georgiev P. Suppression of Fertility in Adult Cats. Reprod Domest Anim 2014; 49 Suppl 2:33-40. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S Goericke-Pesch
- Clinic for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Andrology of Large and Small Animals; Justus-Liebig-University; Gießen Germany
- Department of Large Animal Sciences; Section of Veterinary Reproduction; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences; University of Copenhagen; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - A Wehrend
- Clinic for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Andrology of Large and Small Animals; Justus-Liebig-University; Gießen Germany
| | - P Georgiev
- Clinic for Obstetrics, Reproduction and Reproductive Disorders of Veterinary Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Trakia University; Stara Zagora Bulgaria
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DeCaluwe HB, Wielebnowski NC, Howard J, Pelican KM, Ottinger MA. Behavioral reactions relate to adrenal activity and temperament in male clouded leopards (Neofelis nebulosa). Appl Anim Behav Sci 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2013.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Gobello C. Effects of GnRH Antagonists vs Agonists in Domestic Carnivores, a Review. Reprod Domest Anim 2012; 47 Suppl 6:373-6. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2012] [Accepted: 07/05/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C Gobello
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; National University of La Plata; Conicet; Argentina
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Stewart RA, Pelican KM, Crosier AE, Pukazhenthi BS, Wildt DE, Ottinger MA, Howard J. Oral progestin priming increases ovarian sensitivity to gonadotropin stimulation and improves luteal function in the cat. Biol Reprod 2012; 87:137. [PMID: 23100619 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.104190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
As the only domesticated species known to exhibit both induced and spontaneous ovulation, the cat is a model for understanding the nuances of ovarian control. To explore ovarian sensitivity to exogenous gonadotropins and the influence of progestin priming, we conducted a study of queens that were down-regulated with oral progestin or allowed to cycle normally, followed by low or high doses of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Our metrics included 1) fecal steroid metabolite profiles before and after ovulation induction, 2) laparoscopic examination of ovarian follicles and corpora lutea (CL) on Days 2 and 17 (Day 0 = hCG administration), and 3) ovariohysterectomy (Day 17) to assess CL progesterone concentrations, morphometrics, and histology. Reproductive tracts from time-matched, naturally mated queens (n = 6) served as controls. Every progestin-primed cat (n = 12) produced the desired response of morphologically similar, fresh CL (regardless of eCG/hCG dose) by Day 2, whereas 41.7% of unprimed counterparts (n = 12) failed to ovulate or had variable-aged CL suggestive of prior spontaneous ovulation (P < 0.05). The ovarian response to low, but not high, eCG/hCG was improved (P < 0.05) in primed compared to unprimed cats, indicating increased sensitivity to gonadotropin in the progestin-primed ovary. Progestin priming prevented hyperelevated fecal steroid metabolites and normalized CL progesterone capacity, but only when combined with low eCG/hCG. However, priming failed to prevent ancillary CL formation, smaller CL mass, or abnormal luteal cell density, which were common to all eCG/hCG-treated cats. Thus, the domestic cat exposed to eCG/hCG produces CL with structural and functional aberrations. These anomalies can be partially mitigated by progestin priming, possibly due to a protective effect of progestin associated with enhanced ovarian sensitivity to gonadotropins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary A Stewart
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia 22630, USA
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Toydemir T, Kılıçarslan M, Olgaç V. Effects of the GnRH analogue deslorelin implants on reproduction in female domestic cats. Theriogenology 2012; 77:662-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.07.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2010] [Revised: 06/19/2011] [Accepted: 07/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Silva ME, Smulders JP, Guerra M, Valderrama XP, Letelier C, Adams GP, Ratto MH. Cetrorelix suppresses the preovulatory LH surge and ovulation induced by ovulation-inducing factor (OIF) present in llama seminal plasma. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2011; 9:74. [PMID: 21624125 PMCID: PMC3123631 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-9-74] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2011] [Accepted: 05/30/2011] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of the study was to determine if the effect of llama OIF on LH secretion is mediated by stimulation of the hypothalamus or pituitary gland. METHODS Using a 2-by-2 factorial design to examine the effects of OIF vs GnRH with or without a GnRH antagonist, llamas with a growing ovarian follicle greater than or equal to 8 mm were assigned randomly to four groups (n = 7 per group) and a) pre-treated with 1.5 mg of GnRH antagonist (cetrorelix acetate) followed by 1 mg of purified llama OIF, b) pre-treated with 1.5 mg of cetrorelix followed by 50 micrograms of GnRH, c) pre-treated with a placebo (2 ml of saline) followed by 1 mg of purified llama OIF or d) pre-treated with a placebo (2 ml of saline) followed by 50 micrograms of GnRH. Pre-treatment with cetrorelix or saline was given as a single slow intravenous dose 2 hours before intramuscular administration of either GnRH or OIF. Blood samples for LH measurement were taken every 15 minutes from 1.5 hours before to 8 hours after treatment. The ovaries were examined by ultrasonography to detect ovulation and CL formation. Blood samples for progesterone measurement were taken every-other-day from Day 0 (day of treatment) to Day 16. RESULTS Ovulation rate was not different (P = 0.89) between placebo+GnRH (86%) and placebo+OIF groups (100%); however, no ovulations were detected in llamas pre-treated with cetrorelix. Plasma LH concentrations surged (P < 0.01) after treatment in both placebo+OIF and placebo+GnRH groups, but not in the cetrorelix groups. Maximum plasma LH concentrations and CL diameter profiles did not differ between the placebo-treated groups, but plasma progesterone concentrations were higher (P < 0.05), on days 6, 8 and 12 after treatment, in the OIF- vs GnRH-treated group. CONCLUSION Cetrorelix (GnRH antagonist) inhibited the preovulatory LH surge induced by OIF in llamas suggesting that LH secretion is modulated by a direct or indirect effect of OIF on GnRH neurons in the hypothalamus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio E Silva
- Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Facultad de Recursos Naturales, Universidad Católica de Temuco, Temuco, Chile
| | - Juan P Smulders
- Instituto de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Monserrat Guerra
- Instituto de Anatomía, Histología y Patología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Ximena P Valderrama
- Instituto de Producción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Claudia Letelier
- Instituto de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Gregg P Adams
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, University of Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Marcelo H Ratto
- Instituto de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
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Pelican KM, Spindler RE, Pukazhenthi BS, Wildt DE, Ottinger MA, Howard J. Progestin exposure before gonadotropin stimulation improves embryo development after in vitro fertilization in the domestic cat. Biol Reprod 2010; 83:558-67. [PMID: 20463355 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.109.083360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the influence of progestin priming and ovarian quiescence on response to exogenous gonadotropin stimulation in the cat. Because a subpopulation of cats routinely ovulated spontaneously, there also was the opportunity to examine the ovary's reaction to the added impact of endogenously secreted progestagen. Queens were given 1) equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) plus human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) only (control; n = 9 cats), 2) GnRH antagonist (antide) injections followed by eCG and hCG (n = 9), and 3) a progestin implant (levonorgestrel) followed by eCG and hCG (n = 9). Laparoscopy was used to assess ovarian activity and aspirate follicular oocytes that were graded on the basis of morphology. In five cats per treatment, half of the high-quality oocytes were assessed for glucose, pyruvate, and lactate metabolism as well as nuclear maturation. Remaining oocytes were inseminated in vitro, cultured, and examined at 72 h after insemination for cleavage. In the remaining four cats per treatment, all oocytes were inseminated in vitro and assessed at 72, 120, and 168 h after insemination for embryo developmental stage. Cats pretreated with progestin had more follicles and produced more embryos per donor (including at the combined morula/blastocyst stage) than controls or females treated with GnRH antagonist (P < 0.05). There were no differences among groups (P > 0.05) in oocyte carbohydrate metabolism, nuclear maturation metrics, or fertilization success, although there was a tendency toward improvements in all three (P < 0.2) in progestin-treated females. Interestingly, cats that spontaneously ovulated within 60 days of treatment onset also produced more embryos per cat than induced-ovulation counterparts (P < 0.05). Results indicate that prior exposure to exogenous progestin (via implant) or endogenous progestagen (via spontaneous ovulation) improves ovarian responsiveness to gonadotropins in the cat through a mechanism that is independent of the induction of ovarian quiescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine M Pelican
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, USA.
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Stewart R, Pelican K, Brown J, Wildt D, Ottinger M, Howard J. Oral progestin induces rapid, reversible suppression of ovarian activity in the cat. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2010; 166:409-16. [PMID: 20051246 PMCID: PMC2840999 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2009.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2009] [Revised: 12/07/2009] [Accepted: 12/28/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The influence of oral progestin (altrenogest; ALT) on cat ovarian activity was studied using non-invasive fecal steroid monitoring. Queens were assigned to various ALT dosages: (1) 0mg/kg (control; n=5 cats); (2) 0.044 mg/kg (LOW; n=5); (3) 0.088 mg/kg (MID; n=6); or (4) 0.352 mg/kg (HIGH; n=6). Fecal estrogen and progestagen concentrations were quantified using enzyme immunoassays for 60 days before, 38 days during and 60 days after ALT treatment. Initiation of follicular activity was suppressed in all cats during progestin treatment, whereas controls continued to cycle normally. Females (n=6) with elevated fecal estrogens at treatment onset completed a normal follicular phase before returning to baseline and remained suppressed until treatment withdrawal. All cats receiving oral progestin re-initiated follicular activity after treatment, although MID cats experienced the most synchronized return (within 10-16 days). Mean baseline fecal estrogens and progestagens were higher (P<0.05) after treatment in HIGH, but not in LOW or MID cats compared to pre-treatment values. The results demonstrate that: (1) oral progestin rapidly suppresses initiation of follicular activity in the cat, but does not influence a follicular phase that exists before treatment initiation; and (2) queens return to normal follicular activity after progestin withdrawal. This study provides foundational information for research aimed at using progestin priming to improve ovarian response in felids scheduled for ovulation induction and assisted breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- R.A. Stewart
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian’s National Zoological Park, Conservation & Research Center, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - K.M. Pelican
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian’s National Zoological Park, Conservation & Research Center, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - J.L. Brown
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian’s National Zoological Park, Conservation & Research Center, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - D.E. Wildt
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian’s National Zoological Park, Conservation & Research Center, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - M.A. Ottinger
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - J.G. Howard
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian’s National Zoological Park, Conservation & Research Center, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
- Corresponding author. Fax: + 1 540 635 6506. (D.E. Wildt)
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Risso A, Valiente C, Corrada Y, Romero GG, Blanco PG, de la Sota PE, Diaz JD, Gobello C. The GnRH antagonist acyline prevented ovulation, but did not affect ovarian follicular development or gestational corpora lutea in the domestic cat. Theriogenology 2010; 73:984-7. [PMID: 20171723 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2009] [Revised: 12/28/2009] [Accepted: 01/05/2010] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Two experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of the GnRH antagonist acyline (330 microg/kg, given sc) on ovarian follicular development and ovulation, as well as on pregnancy maintenance in domestic cats. In the first experiment, seven queens in proestrus (total of 24 proestrus periods), were randomly assigned to treatment with either acyline (ACY; n=17) or a placebo (PLC; n=7). All queens were mated with a fertile tomcat. In the ACY and PLC groups, cessation of estrus occurred (mean+/-SEM) 7.0+/-1.3 and 7.0+/-1.7 d after treatment (P>0.1), ovulation occurred in 2 of 17 and all seven estrus periods (P<0.05), and pregnancy rates were 1 of 16 and 7 of 7 (P<0.05), respectively. In the ACY and PLC groups, intervals from treatment to the onset of the ensuing proestrus were 18.4+/-1.7 and 120+/-17.2 d. In the second experiment, 14 pregnant queens were randomly allocated, according to their mating date, to treatment with acyline in early pregnancy (from 20 to 25 d, n=3), mid pregnancy (from 26 to 45 d; n=4), late pregnancy (> 45 d; n=3), or injection of a placebo in early (n=1), mid (n=2), or late pregnancy (n=1). Ultrasonographic assessments of the uterus were done every second day for 2 wk post treatment, and serum progesterone (P(4)) concentrations were determined before treatment, and at 7 and 14 d after treatment. No pregnancies were prematurely terminated and post-treatment P(4) concentrations did not differ among treatment groups (P>0.1). In conclusion, in the domestic cat, GnRH withdrawal by acyline prevented ovulation when given in early follicular phase (proestrus), but did not significantly affect luteal function during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Risso
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, National University of La Plata, Argentina
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