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Xie C, Huang C, Yan L, Yao R, Xiao J, Yang M, Chen H, Tang K, Zhou D, Lin P, Wang A, Jin Y. Recipients' and Environmental Factors Affecting the Pregnancy Rates of a Large, Fresh In Vitro Fertilization-Embryo Transfer Program for Dairy Cows in a Commercial Herd in China. Vet Sci 2024; 11:410. [PMID: 39330789 PMCID: PMC11435568 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11090410] [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: 07/12/2024] [Revised: 08/25/2024] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The main objective of this study was to determine the influence of the recipient dairy cows' breed, lactation number, estrus condition, the type, location and volume of the corpus luteum (CL) and the time of year that the embryo transfer (ET) was performed on the pregnancy rates of a large, fresh in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer program for dairy cows in a commercial herd in China. The recipients were from a herd of dairy cows in Ningxia, a province in northwest China, and we statistically analyzed the data of 495 cows from 2021 to 2023. Cumulus oocyte complexes (COCS) were isolated from follicular fluid obtained through ovum pick-up (OPU) and oocytes were incubated 20-22 h for in vitro maturation (IVM). Embryos were obtained after 10-12 h of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and six days of in vitro culture (IVC). Embryos at the morula or blastocyst stage were transferred to randomly chosen recipients (n = 495). The influence of recipients' breed (Holstein or other), recipients' lactation number (heifers or cows), estrus type (natural or synchronized), CL type (homogeneous, CLhom or cavitary, CLcav), CL side (left or right), volume of the CL and season of transfer (spring, autumn or winter) on pregnancy rates were determined. The pregnancy rates were analyzed by binomial logistic regression with IBM SPSS statistics software, version 26. Pregnancy rates after ET to Holstein cows and other breeds were 43.49% and 42.68%, respectively (p > 0.05). Regarding age, pregnancy rates were 45.56% for heifers and 30.77% for cows (p < 0.05). Pregnancy rates following ET during natural and synchronized estrus were 44.41% and 41.5%, respectively (p > 0.05). Pregnancy rates with a left- or right-side CL were 40.18% and 45.65%, respectively (p > 0.05). The pregnancy rates achieved with a CLhom and CLcav were 44.44% and 39.68%, respectively (p < 0.05). The rates obtained in spring, autumn and winter were 49.26%, 46.02% and 34.64%, respectively (p < 0.05). Moreover, it was found that pregnancy rates were higher in recipients with a CL volume measuring greater than 10 cm3 compared with those with a CL volume measuring less than 10 cm3 (p < 0.05). The comparisons showed that recipients' breed, estrus type or side of the CL had no effect, but the recipients' lactation number, ET season and the type and volume of the CL have significant effects on pregnancy rates during ET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengyun Xie
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (C.X.); (C.H.); (L.Y.); (R.Y.); (J.X.); (M.Y.); (H.C.); (K.T.); (D.Z.); (P.L.); (A.W.)
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Cong Huang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (C.X.); (C.H.); (L.Y.); (R.Y.); (J.X.); (M.Y.); (H.C.); (K.T.); (D.Z.); (P.L.); (A.W.)
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Longgang Yan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (C.X.); (C.H.); (L.Y.); (R.Y.); (J.X.); (M.Y.); (H.C.); (K.T.); (D.Z.); (P.L.); (A.W.)
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Ruiqi Yao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (C.X.); (C.H.); (L.Y.); (R.Y.); (J.X.); (M.Y.); (H.C.); (K.T.); (D.Z.); (P.L.); (A.W.)
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Jinbang Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (C.X.); (C.H.); (L.Y.); (R.Y.); (J.X.); (M.Y.); (H.C.); (K.T.); (D.Z.); (P.L.); (A.W.)
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Mingmao Yang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (C.X.); (C.H.); (L.Y.); (R.Y.); (J.X.); (M.Y.); (H.C.); (K.T.); (D.Z.); (P.L.); (A.W.)
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Huatao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (C.X.); (C.H.); (L.Y.); (R.Y.); (J.X.); (M.Y.); (H.C.); (K.T.); (D.Z.); (P.L.); (A.W.)
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Keqiong Tang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (C.X.); (C.H.); (L.Y.); (R.Y.); (J.X.); (M.Y.); (H.C.); (K.T.); (D.Z.); (P.L.); (A.W.)
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Dong Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (C.X.); (C.H.); (L.Y.); (R.Y.); (J.X.); (M.Y.); (H.C.); (K.T.); (D.Z.); (P.L.); (A.W.)
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Pengfei Lin
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (C.X.); (C.H.); (L.Y.); (R.Y.); (J.X.); (M.Y.); (H.C.); (K.T.); (D.Z.); (P.L.); (A.W.)
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Aihua Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (C.X.); (C.H.); (L.Y.); (R.Y.); (J.X.); (M.Y.); (H.C.); (K.T.); (D.Z.); (P.L.); (A.W.)
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Yaping Jin
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (C.X.); (C.H.); (L.Y.); (R.Y.); (J.X.); (M.Y.); (H.C.); (K.T.); (D.Z.); (P.L.); (A.W.)
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
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Yáñez U, Barrio M, Fernández I, Becerra JJ, Herradón PG, Peña AI, Quintela LA. Assessment of Luteal Function Using Rectal Palpation, B-Mode Ultrasonography, and Progesterone Determination to Improve Recipient Selection in Embryo Transfer Programs. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2865. [PMID: 37760265 PMCID: PMC10525574 DOI: 10.3390/ani13182865] [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: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Proper selection of recipients determines the success of embryo transfer (ET) programs. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to assess the accuracy of rectal palpation (RP) in selecting recipients according to the size and firmness of their corpus luteum (CL) compared to ultrasonography (US) and progesterone determination (P4); to check if US or P4 provide additional information to RP with regard to selecting animals with higher odds of maintaining the pregnancy; and to verify the reliability of the presence of a cavity and the volume of the CL within the ovary (%CLOV) as predictors of the ET outcome. In Experiment 1, measurements for the largest and minor diameter (LADCL and MIDCL), CL area, and P4 at ET day were collected, as well as the RP score, in 94 heifers. In Experiment 2, measurements for the LADCL, MIDCL, CL volume, %CLOV, and presence of a cavity were collected, as well as data about the procedure and metabolic markers, in 108 heifers. No differences were found in Experiment 1, whereas in Experiment 2, just a tendency was observed for the variable of veterinarian. Consequently, these results suggest that RP and US are useful methods to select recipients with, that US and P4 do not offer additional data to use to select animals with higher odds of maintaining pregnancy, and that neither %CLOV nor cavitary CL were good indicators for pregnancy rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uxía Yáñez
- Unit of Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Animal Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Campus Terra, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Avda. Carballo Calero s/n, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (U.Y.); (J.J.B.); (P.G.H.); (A.I.P.)
| | - Mónica Barrio
- Xénese E.T.E., Barreiros, Sedes, 15596 Narón, Spain; (M.B.); (I.F.)
| | - Ismael Fernández
- Xénese E.T.E., Barreiros, Sedes, 15596 Narón, Spain; (M.B.); (I.F.)
| | - Juan J. Becerra
- Unit of Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Animal Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Campus Terra, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Avda. Carballo Calero s/n, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (U.Y.); (J.J.B.); (P.G.H.); (A.I.P.)
| | - Pedro G. Herradón
- Unit of Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Animal Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Campus Terra, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Avda. Carballo Calero s/n, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (U.Y.); (J.J.B.); (P.G.H.); (A.I.P.)
| | - Ana I. Peña
- Unit of Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Animal Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Campus Terra, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Avda. Carballo Calero s/n, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (U.Y.); (J.J.B.); (P.G.H.); (A.I.P.)
| | - Luis A. Quintela
- Unit of Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Animal Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Campus Terra, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Avda. Carballo Calero s/n, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (U.Y.); (J.J.B.); (P.G.H.); (A.I.P.)
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Pereira MHC, Cappellozza BI, Cerri RLA, Sanches CP, Guida TG, Barbosa LFSP, Santos JEP, Vasconcelos JLM. Effects of additional gonadotropin-releasing hormone and prostaglandin F 2α treatment to an estradiol/progesterone-based embryo transfer protocol for recipient lactating dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:1414-1428. [PMID: 36460499 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-22134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study was designed to evaluate whether the utilization of a second PGF2α treatment at the end of an estradiol/progesterone (E2/P4)-based protocol with or without GnRH at the beginning of the protocol would improve pregnancy rates of lactating Holstein cows assigned to timed embryo transfer. A total of 501 lactating Holstein cows in 5 farms were enrolled in the experiment. Within farm, cows were blocked by parity and, within block, were assigned randomly to (1) insertion of an intravaginal P4 device (controlled internal drug-releasing device; CIDR) and estradiol benzoate on d -11, PGF2α on d -4, CIDR withdrawal and an injection of estradiol cypionate on d -2, and timed embryo transfer on d 7 (1-PGF; n = 164); (2) the same treatments as 1-PGF, but with PGF2α administered on d -4 and -2 (2-PGF; n = 171); and (3) 2-PGF with the addition of a GnRH treatment on d -11 (GnRH+2-PGF; n = 166). Ovaries were scanned by transrectal ultrasonography on d -11, -4, and 7, and blood samples were collected on d -11, -4, 0, and 7 for P4 determination. Treatment comparisons were performed using contrasts. The proportion of cows with a new corpus luteum on d -4 was greater in GnRH+2-PGF cows. Cows in 1-PGF had a greater P4 concentration on d 0 but lesser P4 on d 7 compared with cows in the other groups. Cows assigned to receive 2-PGF (2-PGF and GnRH+2-PGF) had greater estrus expression, and a greater proportion of cows ovulated to estradiol cypionate. No further contrast effects were observed for follicle diameter, double ovulation rate, pregnancy per embryo transfer (P/ET) on d 32 and 60, or pregnancy loss. As P4 concentration on d -4 increased, P/ET on d 60 tended to increase. Cows with P4 ≥3.66 ng/mL on d -4 had greater P/ET on d 32 and 60 than those with P4 below that threshold. Regardless of treatment, cows with P4 concentration ≥3.66 ng/mL also had a greater pregnancy per synchronized protocol (P/SP) on d 60. Also, a P4 concentration on d -4 (low or high) × follicle diameter (continuous) interaction tendency was observed when evaluating P/ET. Although P/ET did not differ among cows with different follicles sizes with reduced P4 concentration on d -4 (<3.66 ng/mL), it increased in cows with larger follicles exposed to increased P4 concentration (≥3.66 ng/mL). When P4 on d 0 was evaluated, P/ET on d 32 and 60 was greater for cows with low (≤0.09 ng/mL) versus high (>0.21 ng/mL) P4; as P4 concentration on d 0 increased, P/ET linearly decreased. In summary, cows with increased P4 concentrations during growth of the ovulatory follicular wave had improved P/ET. Administering a second PGF2α dose reduced P4 concentration on d 0 and increased ovulatory response to the protocol, but no benefits were observed on P/ET or P/SP.
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Affiliation(s)
- M H C Pereira
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, SP 18618-000, Brazil
| | - B I Cappellozza
- Chr. Hansen Animal Health & Nutrition, Hoersholm, 2970, Denmark
| | - R L A Cerri
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada V6T 1Z4
| | - C P Sanches
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, SP 18618-000, Brazil
| | - T G Guida
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, SP 18618-000, Brazil
| | - L F S P Barbosa
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, SP 18618-000, Brazil
| | - J E P Santos
- Department of Animal Sciences, D.H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611
| | - J L M Vasconcelos
- Department of Animal Production, São Paulo State University, Botucatu 18168-000, Brazil.
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Pereira M, Cappellozza B, Costa W, Barbosa L, Cerri R, Vasconcelos J. Effects of estradiol cypionate dose as an ovulatory stimulus on reproductive performance of lactating dairy cows during the summer season. Theriogenology 2022; 182:110-118. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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SAKATANI M. «The role of reproductive biology in SDGs» Global warming and cattle reproduction: Will increase in cattle numbers progress to global warming? J Reprod Dev 2022; 68:90-95. [PMID: 35095022 PMCID: PMC8979800 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2021-149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The livestock industry produces a large amount of greenhouse gases (GHG) that cause global warming. A high percentage of GHG emissions are derived from cattle and has been suggested to be a
factor in global warming. With the global increase in the consumption of livestock products, the number of farm animals has increased. In addition, the reduction in productivity and
reproductive capacity of cattle has resulted in accelerated GHG emissions. In a high-temperature environment, the pregnancy rate decreases, leading to an increase in animals that do not
contribute to production. Consequently, GHG emission per unit product increases, thereby accelerating global warming. To reduce this environmental impact, it is important to improve the
breeding efficiency of cattle by the use of reproductive technology and, thus, reduce the number of non-productive animals. Thus, reproductive biology plays a major role in mitigating global
warming related to the livestock industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miki SAKATANI
- Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, Tochigi 329-2793, Japan
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Madureira AML, Burnett TA, Marques JCS, Moore AL, Borchardt S, Heuwieser W, Guida TG, Vasconcelos JLM, Baes CF, Cerri RLA. Occurrence and greater intensity of estrus in recipient lactating dairy cows improve pregnancy per embryo transfer. J Dairy Sci 2021; 105:877-888. [PMID: 34656349 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-20437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the association between occurrence and intensity of estrous expression with pregnancy success in recipient lactating dairy cows subjected to embryo transfer (ET). Two observational studies were conducted. Holstein cows were synchronized using the same timed ET protocol, based on estradiol and progesterone in both experiments. At 9 d after the end of the timed ET protocol only animals that had ovulated were implanted with a 7-d embryo [experiment 1 (Exp. 1); n = 1,401 ET events from 1,045 cows, and experiment 2 (Exp. 2); n = 1,147 ET events from 657 cows]. Embryos were produced in vivo (Exp. 1 and Exp. 2) and in vitro (only Exp. 2), then transferred to recipient cows as fresh or frozen-thawed. Pregnancy was confirmed at 29 and 58 d after the end of timed ET protocol. In Exp. 1, animals had their estrous expression monitored through a tail chalk applied on the tail head of the cows and evaluated daily for chalk removal (no estrus: 100% of chalk remaining; estrus: <50% of chalk remaining). In Exp. 2, cows were continuously monitored by a leg-mounted automated activity monitor. Estrous expression was quantified using the relative increase in physical activity at estrus in relation to the days before estrus. Estrous expression was classified as no estrus [<100% relative increase in activity (RI)], weak intensity (100-299% RI), and strong intensity (≥300% RI). Data were analyzed by analysis of variance using mixed linear regression models (GLIMMIX) in SAS (SAS Institute Inc.). A total of 65.2% (914/1,401) and 89.2% (1,019/1,142) of cows from Exp. 1 and Exp. 2, respectively, displayed estrus at the end of the ovulation synchronization protocol. In Exp. 1, cows expressing estrus before to ET had greater pregnancy per ET than those that did not [41.0 ± 2.3% (381/914) vs. 31.5 ± 2.9% (151/487), respectively]. Similarly, in Exp. 2, cows classified in the strong intensity group had greater pregnancy per ET compared with cows in the weak intensity and no estrus groups [41.3 ± 2.2% (213/571) vs. 32.7 ± 2.7% (115/353) vs. 11.3 ± 3.5% (26/218), respectively]. There was no effect of ET type on pregnancy per ET in Exp. 1. However, in Exp. 2, cows that received an in vivo-produced embryo, either fresh or frozen, had greater pregnancy per ET compared with cows that received in vitro-produced embryo. Cows receiving embryos in the early blastocyst and blastocyst stage had greater fertility compared with cows receiving embryos in the morula stage. There was an interaction between the occurrence of estrus and the stage of embryo development on pregnancy per ET, cows which displayed estrus and received a morula or early blastocyst had greater pregnancy per ET than cows that did not display estrus. In conclusion, the occurrence and the intensity of estrous expression improved pregnancy per ET in recipient lactating dairy cows and thus could be used as a tool to assist in the decision making of reproduction strategies in dairy farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M L Madureira
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4
| | - T A Burnett
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4; Ridgetown Campus, University of Guelph, Ridgetown, ON, Canada, N0P 2C0
| | - J C S Marques
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4
| | - A L Moore
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4
| | - S Borchardt
- Clinic of Animal Reproduction, Freie Universitaet Berlin, Berlin, Germany, 14163
| | - W Heuwieser
- Clinic of Animal Reproduction, Freie Universitaet Berlin, Berlin, Germany, 14163
| | - T G Guida
- Department of Animal Production, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil 18168-000
| | - J L M Vasconcelos
- Department of Animal Production, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil 18168-000
| | - C F Baes
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada, N1G 2W1; Institute of Genetics, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3002 Bern, Switzerland
| | - R L A Cerri
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4.
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Naranjo-Gómez JS, Uribe-García HF, Herrera-Sánchez MP, Lozano-Villegas KJ, Rodríguez-Hernández R, Rondón-Barragán IS. Heat stress on cattle embryo: gene regulation and adaptation. Heliyon 2021; 7:e06570. [PMID: 33869831 PMCID: PMC8035499 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e06570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Global warming has been affecting animal husbandry and farming production worldwide via changes in organisms and their habitats. In the tropics, these conditions are adverse for agriculture and animal production in some areas, due to high temperatures and relative humidity, affecting competitiveness related to economic activities. These environments have deteriorated livestock production, due to periods of drought, reduction in forage quality and heat stress, eliciting negative effects on reproduction, weight gain, and reduced meat and milk production. However, the use of animals adapted to tropics such as breeds derived from subspecies Bos primigenius indicus and native breeds from tropical countries or their crossings, is an alternative to improve production under high-temperature conditions. Therefore, physiological adaptation including gene expression induced by heat stress have been studied to understand the response of animals and to improve cross-breeding between cattle breeds to maintain high productivity in adverse weather conditions. Heat stress has been associated with lower reproductive performance in cows, due to the impact on blastocyst production, decreased implantation and increased embryonic death. Thus, for decades, in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer techniques have focused on studying the optimal conditions for production of high-quality embryos to transfer. The aim of this review is to discuss the effects of heat stress in bovine embryos, and their physiological and genetic modulation, focusing on the genes that are related with major adaptability to heat stress conditions and their relationship with different embryonic stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Sebastian Naranjo-Gómez
- Research Group in Immunobiology and Pathogenesis, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, University of Tolima, Altos of Santa Helena, A.A 546, Ibagué, Colombia
| | - Heinner Fabián Uribe-García
- Research Group in Immunobiology and Pathogenesis, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, University of Tolima, Altos of Santa Helena, A.A 546, Ibagué, Colombia
| | - María Paula Herrera-Sánchez
- Research Group in Immunobiology and Pathogenesis, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, University of Tolima, Altos of Santa Helena, A.A 546, Ibagué, Colombia
| | - Kelly Johanna Lozano-Villegas
- Research Group in Immunobiology and Pathogenesis, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, University of Tolima, Altos of Santa Helena, A.A 546, Ibagué, Colombia
| | - Roy Rodríguez-Hernández
- Poultry Research Group, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, University of Tolima, Altos of Santa Helena, A.A 546, Ibagué, Colombia
| | - Iang Schroniltgen Rondón-Barragán
- Research Group in Immunobiology and Pathogenesis, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, University of Tolima, Altos of Santa Helena, A.A 546, Ibagué, Colombia
- Poultry Research Group, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, University of Tolima, Altos of Santa Helena, A.A 546, Ibagué, Colombia
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Oliveira CS, Marques SCS, Guedes PHE, Feuchard VL, Camargo AJR, de Freitas C, Camargo LSA. Thermal-treatment protocol to induce thermotolerance in bovine embryos. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 33:497-501. [PMID: 33926614 DOI: 10.1071/rd20309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Artificial reproduction in dairy cattle is challenged by summer temperatures in tropical environments. We describe a treatment based on mild temperature increases to induce thermotolerance and improve the embryo's performance under heat stress conditions. A protocol was established to induce upregulation of heat shock protein A (HSPA, formerly known as HSP70) but not impair embryonic development. Thermal treatment (TT) had no effect on morula/blastocyst rate or blastocyst quality (cell number and apoptosis). Heat shock given one day after TT revealed higher (P=0.00) survival rates in TT blastocysts compared with Control. Treated embryos were transferred to recipients and no detrimental effects were observed regarding pregnancy rates, length, fetal growth or calf weight. Our results demonstrated that the established TT protocol could induce a thermal response by the embryo and is safe for further development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara S Oliveira
- Animal Reproduction Laboratory, Embrapa Dairy Cattle, Fazenda Santa Monica Road, Barao de Juparana, Valença, RJ, Brazil; and Corresponding author.
| | - Sheila C S Marques
- Animal Reproduction Laboratory, Embrapa Dairy Cattle, Fazenda Santa Monica Road, Barao de Juparana, Valença, RJ, Brazil
| | - Pedro H E Guedes
- Animal Reproduction Laboratory, Embrapa Dairy Cattle, Fazenda Santa Monica Road, Barao de Juparana, Valença, RJ, Brazil
| | - Viviane L Feuchard
- Animal Biology Laboratory, Agriculture Research Company of the Rio de Janeiro State (PESAGRO RIO), Sao Boa Ventura Avenue, 770, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - Agostinho J R Camargo
- Animal Biology Laboratory, Agriculture Research Company of the Rio de Janeiro State (PESAGRO RIO), Sao Boa Ventura Avenue, 770, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - Celio de Freitas
- Animal Reproduction Laboratory, Embrapa Dairy Cattle, Fazenda Santa Monica Road, Barao de Juparana, Valença, RJ, Brazil
| | - Luiz S A Camargo
- Animal Reproduction Laboratory, Embrapa Dairy Cattle, Fazenda Santa Monica Road, Barao de Juparana, Valença, RJ, Brazil
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9
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Roth Z. Influence of heat stress on reproduction in dairy cows-physiological and practical aspects. J Anim Sci 2020; 98:S80-S87. [PMID: 32810254 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skaa139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zvi Roth
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
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10
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Roth Z. Reproductive physiology and endocrinology responses of cows exposed to environmental heat stress - Experiences from the past and lessons for the present. Theriogenology 2020; 155:150-156. [PMID: 32679440 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.05.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The effects of environmental heat-stress on production and reproduction in dairy cows have been intensively studied throughout the past few decades. In light of climate changes and global warming, this issue has gained attention worldwide. So far, most of the documentations are related to warmer-climate regions, however, environmental thermal stress has recently been reported in cooler regions, such as Europe. The review attempts to present the experiences from the past years and lessons for the present. The review highlights some of the environmental characterizations and provides some practical approaches to estimate the level of heat load on farms. For instance, the intensity of heat stress can be evaluated by the temperature humidity index (THI). Other environmental parameters, such as the increased number of consecutive hot days or the increased frequency of extremely hot days, can be also used to estimate the level of heat load on farms. Exposure of dairy cows to environmental thermal stress results in multiple behavioral changes, physiological responses and endocrinological alterations, which in sequence, lead to reduced reproductive performance. Multiple in-vitro studies have been performed for better understanding the mechanism by which heat stress impairs reproductive processes. However, the current review focuses mainly on animal reactions and on the limitations of physiological and behavioral responses in maintaining normothermia, without human intervention. The review provides evidence that thermal stress induces alterations in the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovarian axis. For instance, impaired gonadotropin secretion, attenuation of follicular development, reduced steroid production and progesterone concentration in the plasma. These were found to be associated with impaired estrus behavior, reduced oocyte developmental competence and embryo survival. Heat stress also has direct and indirect effects on the preimplantation embryo. The review summarizes the thermo-sensitivity of the embryo and the acquisition of its thermotolerance through early developmental stages. Understanding the effects of environmentally elevated temperature on the reproductive physiology of lactating cows is extremely important for the development of new strategies in order to mitigate the effects of heat stress on farms. The review also provides various types of management and practical tools, in order to alleviate the effects of thermal stress. It introduces some approaches that have been developed during recent years, ones that have been practically used to alleviate the effect of the environmental heat load and suggested to be implanted. Cooling is the predominant strategy used nowadays in order to alleviate the effects of heat stress. It includes indirect cooling of the environment surrounding the animal, by providing shed and ventilation (with or without water) or direct evaporative cooling of the cow with water and fans. Using an efficient cooling system can improve milk production during the hot season, but it cannot eliminate the decline in reproduction. The review also discusses some additional approaches such as timed artificial insemination, hormonal treatment and embryo transfer, which have already been developed. These are suggested to be examined, adapted and implemented in dairy farms located in new regions that have recently suffered from environmental heat stress. The review also discusses unclear points and open questions some of which might lead new research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zvi Roth
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, 76100, Israel.
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11
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Baruselli PS, Ferreira RM, Vieira LM, Souza AH, Bó GA, Rodrigues CA. Use of embryo transfer to alleviate infertility caused by heat stress. Theriogenology 2020; 155:1-11. [PMID: 32562738 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.04.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Heat stress (HS) has a pronounced deleterious effect on fertility in dairy herds throughout the world, especially in hot and humid summer months in tropical and subtropical areas. Summer HS reduces feed intake and increases negative energy balance, induces changes in ovarian follicular dynamics, reduces estrus detection rates and alters oviductal function leading to fertilization failure and early embryonic death. Furthermore, oocytes harvested from lactating cows during summer HS have a decreased ability to develop to the blastocyst stage after in vitro fertilization when compared with oocytes harvested during winter. The present manuscript describes the detrimental effect of HS on reproduction, with emphasis on preovulatory oocytes and carry over effects of HS on embryo development and P/AI. Embryo transfer (ET) has been an effective tool to reestablish fertility during HS because it bypasses the damage to the oocyte and early embryo caused by hyperthermia. Therefore, a management strategy to maintain increased fertility throughout the year would be to produce embryos during the cooler months, when oocyte quality is greater, and use them to produce pregnancies during the periods of HS, when oocyte quality is compromised. However, this strategy only can be implemented using cryopreserved embryos, what is still limiting. During the warmer months, the use of heifers or non-lactating cows as oocyte or embryo donors may facilitate embryo production, mainly because of the lesser deleterious effects of HS comparing to lactating cows. Also, genetic selection of donors for thermoregulation ability is one potential strategy to mitigate effects of HS and increase embryo production during the warmer months. These alternatives enable the transference of fresh embryos with more efficiency during HS periods. Additionally, the application of timed ET protocols, which avoid the need for estrus detection in recipients, has facilitated management and improved the efficiency of ET programs during HS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro S Baruselli
- Department of Animal Reproduction, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Roberta M Ferreira
- Department of Animal Reproduction, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Laís M Vieira
- Department of Animal Reproduction, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Alexandre H Souza
- Department of Animal Reproduction, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Gabriel A Bó
- Instituto de Reproducción Animal Córdoba (IRAC) and Universidad Nacional de Villa María, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Carlos A Rodrigues
- SAMVET Embriões, Rua Getúlio Vargas 300, CEP 13560-000, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
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12
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Forde N, Simintiras CA, Sturmey RG, Graf A, Wolf E, Blum H, Lonergan P. Effect of lactation on conceptus-maternal interactions at the initiation of implantation in cattle: I. Effects on the conceptus transcriptome and amino acid composition of the uterine luminal fluid. Biol Reprod 2019; 97:798-809. [PMID: 29088315 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 65-75 days postpartum (dpp), the estrous cycles of nonlactating (dried off immediately postpartum: n = 12) and lactating (n = 13) Holstein Friesian cows were synchronized and on day 7 a single blastocyst derived from superovulated nulliparous Holstein Friesian heifers was transferred to each cow. A control group of nulliparous heifers (n = 8) were synchronized, inseminated to a standing heat, and slaughtered on the same day as nonlactating and lactating recipients (day 19; estrus = day 0). The uterine horn ipsilateral to the corpus luteum was flushed with 10 ml phosphate-buffered saline and the conceptus, and uterine luminal fluid (ULF) was snap-frozen in liquid nitrogen. Gene expression analysis of the conceptus was performed by RNA sequencing, while amino acid composition of ULF was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. No differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were observed between conceptuses recovered from nonlactating and lactating cows. Eight DEGs were identified between conceptuses recovered from nonlactating cows and heifers. A total of 269 DEGs (100 up- and 169 downregulated) were identified between conceptuses recovered from lactating cows compared to heifers. Alanine, glycine, serine, threonine, arginine, leucine, and valine were significantly lower in abundance in ULF recovered from heifers compared to nonlactating or lactating cows. This study demonstrates that the environment in which the embryo develops post the blastocyst stage can have an effect on the conceptus transcriptome and amino acid composition of the ULF but this was mainly observed between the two extreme groups in terms of metabolic status (nulliparous heifers vs postpartum lactating cows).
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Affiliation(s)
- Niamh Forde
- Division of Reproduction and Early Development, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Constantine A Simintiras
- Center for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK.,School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Roger G Sturmey
- Center for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Alexander Graf
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis, Gene Center, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Eckhard Wolf
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis, Gene Center, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Helmut Blum
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis, Gene Center, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Pat Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Ireland
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13
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Affiliation(s)
- David Wolfenson
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Zvi Roth
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
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14
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Marques MDO, Morotti F, Lorenzetti E, Bizarro-Silva C, Seneda MM. Intensified use of TAI and sexed semen on commercial farms. Anim Reprod 2018; 15:197-203. [PMID: 34178142 PMCID: PMC8202457 DOI: 10.21451/1984-3143-ar2018-0070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The livestock sector has achieved many technological advances, which have resulted in continued
improvements in animal production systems and in the reproductive efficiency of herds. The
associated use of reproductive biotechnology and genetic improvements combined with adequate
sanitary and nutritional management are essential conditions for sustainable intensified
animal production and financial autonomy within farms. Timed artificial insemination (TAI)
represents one of the strategies with the greatest impact of expansion in providing genetic
improvements and increased reproductive efficiency at a decreased cost. Despite the high
proportion of cows receiving TAI, this market still exhibits considerable potential for
expansion. After a TAI procedure, approximately 40 to 60% of females become pregnant. This
result can vary depending on such factors as the hormonal protocol employed, female category,
body condition score, ovarian status, farm management and aspects related to bulls and semen.
The fertility and genetic quality of the bull plays an important role in the herd because a single
bull can influence the entire production system. Another important strategy is the use of
sex-sorted semen associated with TAI, primarily when associated with management practices
to improve the pregnancy rate. This paper presents a review of the intensification of TAI,
supplying practical information regarding the implementation of TAI commercial programs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fábio Morotti
- Laboratório de Reprodução Animal, DCV-CCA-UEL, Londrina, Parana, Brazil
| | - Elis Lorenzetti
- Laboratório de Reprodução Animal, DCV-CCA-UEL, Londrina, Parana, Brazil.,Universidade Norte do Paraná, UNOPAR, Arapongas, Parana, Brazil
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15
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Calsamiglia S, Astiz S, Baucells J, Castillejos L. A stochastic dynamic model of a dairy farm to evaluate the technical and economic performance under different scenarios. J Dairy Sci 2018; 101:7517-7530. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2017-12980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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16
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Moore SG, O'Gorman A, Brennan L, Fair T, Butler ST. Follicular fluid and serum metabolites in Holstein cows are predictive of genetic merit for fertility. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 29:658-669. [PMID: 26511586 DOI: 10.1071/rd15182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2015] [Accepted: 09/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The aims of the present study were to: (1) characterise the metabolome of follicular fluid and serum in dairy cows with similar genetic merit for milk production but with extremes of good (Fert+) or poor (Fert-) genetic merit for fertility; and (2) identify potential biomarkers of dairy cow fertility. Follicular fluid from the first wave dominant follicle and serum were collected on Day 7 of the oestrous cycle. The most pronounced effect of genotype was noted in the serum, where the abundance of total polyunsaturated fatty acids and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids was greater in Fert+ cows, and the abundance of total saturated fatty acids was greater in Fert- cows. The abundance of nine fatty acids (arachidic acid, heneicosanoic acid, myristic acid, behenic acid, myristoleic acid, heptadecenoic acid, cis-11-eicosanoic acid, nervonic acid and γ-linolenic acid) in follicular fluid was affected by genotype. Concentrations of cysteine, leucine, ornithine, proline and tyrosine in follicular fluid, and asparagine, creatinine, cysteine, methionine, proline and valine in serum, were also affected by genotype. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis indicated that the follicular fluid and serum fatty acids and follicular fluid amino acids that were significantly affected by genotype were highly predictive of fertility genotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- S G Moore
- Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, P61 C996, Ireland
| | - A O'Gorman
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - L Brennan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - T Fair
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - S T Butler
- Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, P61 C996, Ireland
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17
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Bauersachs S, Simintiras CA, Sturmey RG, Krebs S, Bick J, Blum H, Wolf E, Lonergan P, Forde N. Effect of metabolic status on conceptus-maternal interactions on day 19 in dairy cattle: II. Effects on the endometrial transcriptome. Biol Reprod 2018; 97:413-425. [PMID: 29024972 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that the metabolic stresses associated with lactation alter the ability of the endometrium to respond appropriately to the conceptus by examining endometrial gene expression on day 19 of pregnancy. Immediately after calving, primiparous Holstein cows with similar production and fertility estimated breeding values were randomly divided into two groups and either dried off (i.e. never milked) immediately or milked twice daily. Approximately 65-75 days postpartum, grade 1 blastocysts recovered from superovulated Holstein heifer donors (n = 5) were transferred (1 per recipient) into lactating (n = 11) and nonlactating (n = 11) recipients. Control nulliparous Holstein heifers (n = 6) were artificially inseminated. RNA-sequencing was performed on intercaruncular endometrial samples recovered at slaughter from confirmed pregnant animals on day 19 (n = 5 lactating and nonlactating cows; n = 4 heifers). Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between both postpartum groups compared to heifers and between lactating and nonlactating cows. Functional annotation of DEGs between cows and heifers revealed over-representation of categories, including endosome, cytoplasmic vesicle, endocytosis, regulation of exocytosis, and cytokine receptor activity. Functional categories including transcription factor binding sites, cell motility, and cell migration were enriched for DEGs between endometria from lactating and nonlactating cows. In conclusion, while the evidence for a major effect of lactation on the endometrial transcriptome is relatively weak, these data suggest that the metabolic status of the animal (heifer vs cow) modulates the response of the endometrium to the developing conceptus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Bauersachs
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Constantine A Simintiras
- Center for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, Hull York Medical School, Kingston-upon-Hull, UK
| | - Roger G Sturmey
- Center for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, Hull York Medical School, Kingston-upon-Hull, UK
| | - Stefan Krebs
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Jochen Bick
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Helmut Blum
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Eckhard Wolf
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Pat Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Niamh Forde
- Division of Reproduction and Early Development, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Leeds, UK
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18
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Forde N, O'Gorman A, Whelan H, Duffy P, O'Hara L, Kelly AK, Havlicek V, Besenfelder U, Brennan L, Lonergan P. Lactation-induced changes in metabolic status and follicular-fluid metabolomic profile in postpartum dairy cows. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 28:1882-1892. [PMID: 26072962 DOI: 10.1071/rd14348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2014] [Accepted: 05/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim was to investigate the effect of lactation on the composition of pre-ovulatory follicular fluid (FF). Forty in-calf primiparous heifers and 20 maiden heifers were enrolled. Immediately after calving, half of the cows were dried off while the remainder were milked twice daily. Serum samples were collected twice weekly from two weeks pre- to 84 days postpartum (dpp). FF was analysed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Serum concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids and β-hydroxybutyrate were higher, while glucose, insulin and Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) concentrations were lower in lactating cows compared with non-lactating cows and heifers (P<0.01). Principal component analysis of FF metabolites revealed a clear separation of the lactating group from both non-lactating cows and heifers. The amino acids tyrosine, phenylalanine and valine and fatty acids heneicosanoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid were all lower in FF from lactating compared with dry cows (P<0.05). FF from lactating cows was higher in aminoadipic acid, α-aminobutyric acid, glycine and serine while histidine, leucine, lysine, methionine and ornithine were all lower than in dry cows and heifers (P<0.05). The ratio of n6:n3 was higher in lactating cows compared with both non-lactating cows and heifers, whereas total n3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, pentadecanoic, linolenic, elaidic and arachidonic acids were all lower in the FF of lactating cows than both non-lactating cows and heifers (P<0.05). In conclusion, lactation induces distinct changes in the overall metabolic status of postpartum lactating dairy cows which are associated with divergent metabolite profiles in FF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niamh Forde
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Aoife O'Gorman
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Helena Whelan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Pat Duffy
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Lydia O'Hara
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Alan K Kelly
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Vitezslav Havlicek
- Reproduction Centre - Wieselburg, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, A-1210, Austria
| | - Urban Besenfelder
- Reproduction Centre - Wieselburg, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, A-1210, Austria
| | - Lorraine Brennan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Pat Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
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19
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Lesage-Padilla A, Forde N, Poirée M, Healey GD, Giraud-Delville C, Reinaud P, Eozenou C, Vitorino Carvalho A, Galio L, Raliou M, Oudin JF, Richard C, Sheldon IM, Charpigny G, Lonergan P, Sandra O. Maternal metabolism affects endometrial expression of oxidative stress and FOXL2 genes in cattle. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0189942. [PMID: 29281695 PMCID: PMC5744954 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0189942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Intensive selection for milk production has led to reduced reproductive efficiency in high-producing dairy cattle. The impact of intensive milk production on oocyte quality as well as early embryo development has been established but few analyses have addressed this question at the initiation of implantation, a critical milestone ensuring a successful pregnancy and normal post-natal development. Our study aimed to determine if contrasted maternal metabolism affects the previously described sensory properties of the endometrium to the conceptus in cattle. Following embryo transfer at Day 7 post-oestrus, endometrial caruncular (CAR) and intercaruncular (ICAR) areas were collected at Day 19 from primiparous postpartum Holstein-Friesian cows that were dried-off immediately after parturition (i.e., never milked; DRY) or milked twice daily (LACT). Gene quantification indicated no significant impact of lactation on endometrial expression of transcripts previously reported as conceptus-regulated (PLET1, PTGS2, SOCS6) and interferon-tau stimulated (RSAD2, SOCS1, SOCS3, STAT1) factors or known as female hormone-regulated genes (FOXL2, SCARA5, PTGS2). Compared with LACT cows, DRY cows exhibited mRNA levels with increased expression for FOXL2 transcription factor and decreased expression for oxidative stress-related genes (CAT, SOD1, SOD2). In vivo and in vitro experiments highlighted that neither interferon-tau nor FOXL2 were involved in transcriptional regulation of CAT, SOD1 and SOD2. In addition, our data showed that variations in maternal metabolism had a higher impact on gene expression in ICAR areas. Collectively, our findings prompt the need to fully understand the extent to which modifications in endometrial physiology drive the trajectory of conceptus development from implantation onwards when maternal metabolism is altered.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Niamh Forde
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mélanie Poirée
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - Gareth D. Healey
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Caroline Eozenou
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | | | - Laurent Galio
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - Mariam Raliou
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | | | | | - I. Martin Sheldon
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Gilles Charpigny
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - Pat Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Olivier Sandra
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
- * E-mail:
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20
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Ferraz P, Burnley C, Karanja J, Viera-Neto A, Santos J, Chebel R, Galvão K. Factors affecting the success of a large embryo transfer program in Holstein cattle in a commercial herd in the southeast region of the United States. Theriogenology 2016; 86:1834-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.05.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Revised: 05/23/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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21
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Developmental competence and expression profile of genes in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) oocytes and embryos collected under different environmental stress. Cytotechnology 2016; 68:2271-2285. [PMID: 27650183 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-016-0022-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The study examined the effects of different environmental stress on developmental competence and the relative abundance (RA) of various gene transcripts in oocytes and embryos of buffalo. Oocytes collected during cold period (CP) and hot period (HP) were matured, fertilized and cultured in vitro to blastocyst hatching stage. The mRNA expression patterns of genes implicated in developmental competence (OCT-4, IGF-2R and GDF-9), heat shock (HSP-70.1), oxidative stress (MnSOD), metabolism (GLUT-1), pro-apoptosis (BAX) and anti-apoptosis (BCL-2) were evaluated in immature and matured oocytes as well as in pre-implantation stage embryos. Oocytes reaching MII stage, cleavage rates, blastocyst yield and hatching rates increased (P < 0.05) during the CP. In MII oocytes and 2-cell embryos, the RA of OCT-4, IGF-2R, GDF-9, MnSOD and GLUT-1 decreased (P < 0.05) during the HP. In 4-cell embryos, the RA of OCT-4, IGF-2R and BCL-2 decreased (P < 0.05) in the HP, whereas GDF-9 increased (P < 0.05). In 8-to 16-cell embryos, the RA of OCT-4 and BCL-2 decreased (P < 0. 05) in the HP, whereas HSP-70.1 and BAX expression increased (P < 0.05). In morula and blastocyst, the RA of OCT-4, IGF-2R and MnSOD decreased (P < 0.05) during the HP, whereas HSP-70.1 was increased (P < 0.05). In conclusion, deleterious seasonal effects induced at the GV-stage carry-over to subsequent embryonic developmental stages and compromise oocyte developmental competence and quality of developed blastocysts.
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22
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Bromfield JJ. A role for seminal plasma in modulating pregnancy outcomes in domestic species. Reproduction 2016; 152:R223-R232. [PMID: 27601714 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Seminal plasma is a complex fluid produced by the accessory glands of the male reproductive tract. Seminal plasma acts primarily as a transport medium for sperm on its arduous journey through the male and then female reproductive tract following ejaculation. This spermatozoan expedition will hopefully result in the meeting of and resultant fertilization of an oocyte, perpetuating the genetic lineage of both sexes. Whereas seminal plasma has historically been perceived as only a transport medium providing a nutrient-rich fluid environment for sperm during this exchange of genetic material, new insights into a complex communication pathway between males and females has been unraveled in the past 30 years. This new research suggests seminal plasma as a method to promote early pregnancy success by modulating cellular and molecular adaptions of the maternal environment required to facilitate healthy, successful pregnancy outcomes. Whereas much work on this exciting new communication process has focused on mice and translation to human reproduction, here we review the current evidence in domestic species where artificial insemination in the absence of seminal plasma is routine. Improving artificial insemination in domestic species to optimize offspring health and productivity could have far-reaching impacts on agriculturally relevant species such as cattle, sheep, pigs and horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- John J Bromfield
- D H Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research ProgramDepartment of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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Lonergan P, Fair T, Forde N, Rizos D. Embryo development in dairy cattle. Theriogenology 2016; 86:270-7. [PMID: 27158131 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.04.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2015] [Revised: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
During the past 50 years, the fertility of high-producing lactating dairy cows has decreased, associated with intensive selection for increased milk production. The physiological and metabolic changes associated with high milk production, including decreased (glucose, insulin, IGF-I) or increased (nonesterified fatty acids, ketone bodies) concentrations of circulating metabolites during nutrient partitioning associated with negative energy balance as well as uterine and nonuterine diseases have been linked with poor reproductive efficiency. Fertilization is typically above 80% and does not seem to be the principal factor responsible for the low fertility in dairy cows. However, early embryonic development is compromised in high-producing dairy cows, as observed by most embryonic losses occurring during the first 2 weeks after fertilization and may be linked to compromised oocyte quality due to a poor follicular microenvironment, suboptimal reproductive tract environment for the embryo, and/or inadequate maternal-embryonic communication. These and other factors related to embryo development will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pat Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Trudee Fair
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Niamh Forde
- Division of Reproduction and Early Development, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Dimitrios Rizos
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal Conservación de Recursos Zoogenéticos, INIA, Madrid, Spain
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Ono T, Isobe T, Morita Y, Do LTK, Tanihara F, Taniguchi M, Takagi M, Otoi T. Effects of parity and season on pregnancy rates after the transfer of embryos to repeat-breeder Japanese Black beef cattle. Arch Anim Breed 2016. [DOI: 10.5194/aab-59-45-2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract. Repeat-breeder (RB) cows are a major source of economic waste due to their decreased fertility. Embryo transfer (ET) is an alternative tool to improve the fertility of RB cows. The aims of the present study were to evaluate the effects of recipient parity and the season on pregnancy rates following ET in RB Japanese Black beef cattle. Embryos were transferred nonsurgically to recipients, consisting of 155 heifers (< 2 years old) and 172 cows (< 8 years old), which were defined as RB cattle. Of the recipients that were presented for ET, 57 recipients received a fresh embryo and 270 recipients received a frozen embryo. There were no differences in the pregnancy rates between cattle that received fresh embryos or frozen embryos. The rates of recipients with pregnancy, abortion, stillbirth, and normal calving were similar between heifers and cows. In cows, the pregnancy rates were lower (P < 0.05) in summer (June to August) than in spring (March to May) and winter (December to February). In heifers, however, there were no differences in the pregnancy rates among the seasons. Our findings indicate that in RB Japanese Black beef cattle, the parity of the recipients does not have an effect on the pregnancy rates following the transfer of fresh and frozen embryos. However, heat stress may affect reproductive performance in RB Japanese Black cows.
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Pereira MHC, Rodrigues ADP, De Carvalho RJ, Wiltbank MC, Vasconcelos JLM. Increasing length of an estradiol and progesterone timed artificial insemination protocol decreases pregnancy losses in lactating dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2014; 97:1454-64. [PMID: 24393173 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2013-7287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2013] [Accepted: 11/08/2013] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Our hypothesis was that increasing the length of an estradiol and progesterone (P4) timed artificial insemination (TAI) protocol would improve pregnancy per artificial insemination (P/AI). Lactating Holstein cows (n=759) yielding 31 ± 0.30 kg of milk/d with a detectable corpus luteum (CL) at d -11 were randomly assigned to receive TAI (d 0) following 1 of 2 treatments: (8d) d -10 = controlled internal drug release (CIDR) and 2.0mg of estradiol benzoate, d -3 = PGF2α(25mg of dinoprost tromethamine), d -2 = CIDR removal and 1.0mg of estradiol cypionate, d 0 = TAI; or (9 d) d -11 = CIDR and estradiol benzoate, d -4 = PGF2α, d -2 CIDR removal and estradiol cypionate, d 0 TAI. Cows were considered to have their estrous cycle synchronized in response to the protocol by the absence of a CL at artificial insemination (d 0) and presence of a CL on d 7. Pregnancy diagnoses were performed on d 32 and 60. The ovulatory follicle diameter at TAI (d 0) did not differ between treatments (14.7 ± 0.39 vs. 15.0 ± 0.40 mm for 8 and 9 d, respectively). The 9 d cows tended to have greater P4 concentrations on d 7 in synchronized cows (3.14 ± 0.18 ng/mL) than the 8d cows (3.05 ± 0.18 ng/mL). Although the P/AI at d 32 [45 (175/385) vs. 43.9% (166/374) for 8d and 9 d, respectively] and 60 [38.1 (150/385) vs. 40.4% (154/374) for 8d and 9 d, respectively] was not different, the 9 d cows had lower pregnancy losses [7.6% (12/166)] than 8d cows [14.7% (25/175)]. The cows in the 9 d program were more likely to be detected in estrus [72.0% (269/374)] compared with 8d cows [62% (240/385)]. Expression of estrus improved synchronization [97.4 (489/501) vs. 81% (202/248)], P4 concentrations at d 7 (3.22 ± 0.16 vs. 2.77 ± 0.17 ng/mL), P/AI at d 32 [51.2 (252/489) vs. 39.4% (81/202)], P/AI at d 60 [46.3 (230/489) vs. 31.1% (66/202)], and decreased pregnancy loss [9.3 (22/252) vs. 19.8% (15/81)] compared with cows that did not show estrus, respectively. Cows not detected in estrus with small (<11 mm) or large follicles (>17 mm) had greater pregnancy loss; however, in cows detected in estrus, no effect of follicle diameter on pregnancy loss was observed. In conclusion, increasing the length of the protocol for TAI increased the percentage of cows detected in estrus and decreased pregnancy loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- M H C Pereira
- Aluno do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Zootecnia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia-Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu 18618-000, Brazil
| | - A D P Rodrigues
- Aluno do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Zootecnia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia-Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu 18618-000, Brazil
| | - R J De Carvalho
- Fazendas Reunidas ACP e Filhos, Minas Gerais, Carmo do Rio Claro 37150-000, Brazil
| | - M C Wiltbank
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin, Madison 53706
| | - J L M Vasconcelos
- Department of Animal Production, São Paulo State University, Botucatu 18168-000, Brazil.
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Hansen PJ. Current and future assisted reproductive technologies for mammalian farm animals. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2014; 752:1-22. [PMID: 24170352 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-8887-3_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Reproduction in domestic animals is under control by man and the technologies developed to facilitate that control have a major impact on the efficiency of food production. Reproduction is an energy-intensive process. In beef cattle, for example, over 50 % of the total feed consumption required to produce a unit of meat protein is consumed by the dam of the meat animal (Anim Prod 27:367-379, 1978). Sows are responsible for about 20 % of the total feed needed to produce animals for slaughter (Adv Pork Prod 19:223-237, 2008). Accordingly, energy input to produce food from animal sources is reduced by increasing number of offspring per unit time a breeding female is in the herd. Using beef cattle as an example again, life-cycle efficiency for production of weaned calves is positively related to early age at puberty and short calving intervals (J Anim Sci 57:852-866, 1983). Reproductive technologies also dictate the strategies that can be used to select animals genetically for traits that improve production. Of critical importance has been artificial insemination (AI) (Anim Reprod Sci 62:143-172, 2000; Stud Hist Philos Biol Biomed Sci 38:411-441, 2007; Reprod Domest Anim 43:379-385, 2008; J Dairy Sci 92:5814-5833, 2009) and, as will be outlined in this chapter, emerging technologies offer additional opportunities for improvements in genetic selection. Given the central role of reproduction as a determinant of production efficiency and in genetic selection, improvements in reproductive technologies will be crucial to meeting the challenges created by the anticipated increases in world population (from seven billion people in 2011 to an anticipated nine billion by 2050; World population prospects: the 2010 revision, highlights and advance tables. Working Paper No. ESA/P/WP.220, New York) and by difficulties in livestock production wrought by climate change (SAT eJournal 4:1-23, 2007).The purpose of this chapter will be to highlight current and emerging reproductive technologies that have the potential to improve efficiency of livestock production. The focus will be on technologies that manipulate male and female gametes as well as the stem cells from which they are derived and the preimplantation embryo. While technology is crucial to other interventions in the reproductive process like control of seasonal breeding, hormonal regulation of ovulation, estrous cyclicity and pregnancy establishment, feeding to optimize reproduction, minimizing environmental stress, and selection of genes controlling reproduction, these will not be considered here. Rather the reader is directed to other chapters in this volume as well as some reviews on other aspects of artificial manipulation of reproduction (Reprod Fertil Dev 24:258-266, 2011; Reprod Domest Anim 43:40-47, 2008; Reprod Domest Anim 43:122-128, 2008; Soc Reprod Fertil Suppl 66:87-102, 2009; Comprehensive biotechnology, Amsterdam, pp 477-485; Dairy production medicine, Chichester, pp 153-163; Theriogenology 76:1619-1631, 2011; Theriogenology 76:1568-1582, 2011; Theriogenology 77:1-11, 2012). Given the large number of mammalian species used for production of products useful for man and the diversity in their biology and management, the review will not be comprehensive but instead will use results from species that are most illustrative of the opportunities generated by assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Hansen
- Department of Animal Sciences, D.H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, and Genetics Institute, University of Florida, 110910, Gainesville, FL, 32611-0910, USA,
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Pereira M, Rodrigues A, Martins T, Oliveira W, Silveira P, Wiltbank M, Vasconcelos J. Timed artificial insemination programs during the summer in lactating dairy cows: Comparison of the 5-d Cosynch protocol with an estrogen/progesterone-based protocol. J Dairy Sci 2013; 96:6904-6914. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2012-6260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2012] [Accepted: 08/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Pereira M, Sanches C, Guida T, Rodrigues A, Aragon F, Veras M, Borges P, Wiltbank M, Vasconcelos J. Timing of prostaglandin F2α treatment in an estrogen-based protocol for timed artificial insemination or timed embryo transfer in lactating dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2013; 96:2837-46. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2012-5840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2012] [Accepted: 01/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Rasmussen S, Block J, Seidel G, Brink Z, McSweeney K, Farin P, Bonilla L, Hansen P. Pregnancy rates of lactating cows after transfer of in vitro produced embryos using X-sorted sperm. Theriogenology 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2012.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Atkins JA, Smith MF, MacNeil MD, Jinks EM, Abreu FM, Alexander LJ, Geary TW. Pregnancy establishment and maintenance in cattle. J Anim Sci 2012; 91:722-33. [PMID: 23148248 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2012-5368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A single ovulation, reciprocal embryo transfer study was used to investigate effects of oocyte competence and maternal environment on pregnancy establishment and maintenance in beef cows. Estrous cycles were synchronized in suckled beef cows and embryo donors were inseminated on d 0 (n = 810). Cows were classified on d 0 as having a small (<12.5 mm) or large (≥12.5 mm) ovulatory follicle and randomly chosen as donors or recipients to remove confounding effects of ovulatory follicle size on fertility. Embryos (n = 393) or oocytes (n = 44) were recovered on d 7, and all viable embryos were transferred into recipients (n = 354). All statistical analyses were conducted using the GLM procedure of SAS. Path analysis (with significance set at P < 0.10) was used to examine potential cause-effect relationships among the measured variables. Greater donor cow BW, circulating estradiol concentration at insemination, postpartum interval, and ovulatory follicle size directly increased (P < 0.10) fertilization success. Greater donor cow age was the only factor that directly decreased (P < 0.10) fertilization success. Viability of d-7 embryos was directly inhibited (P < 0.10) by rapid follicular growth rate from d -2 to 0 and heavier BW. Direct beneficial effects to embryo viability were increased serum progesterone concentration on d -2 and ovulatory follicle size. Pregnancy maintenance from d 7 to 27 was enhanced (P < 0.10) by increased serum estradiol concentration on d 0 and progesterone concentration on d 7 in the recipient cow. Increased follicular diameter in the recipient cow on d 0 was detrimental to pregnancy maintenance from d 7 to 27. This manuscript defines the complex interplay and relative contributions of endocrine and physical factors both prior and subsequent to fertilization that influence both oocyte competence and maternal environment and their roles in establishment and maintenance of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Atkins
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211, USA
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Maillo V, Rizos D, Besenfelder U, Havlicek V, Kelly A, Garrett M, Lonergan P. Influence of lactation on metabolic characteristics and embryo development in postpartum Holstein dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2012; 95:3865-76. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2011-5270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2011] [Accepted: 03/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Baruselli P, Ferreira R, Sales J, Gimenes L, Sá Filho M, Martins C, Rodrigues C, Bó G. Timed embryo transfer programs for management of donor and recipient cattle. Theriogenology 2011; 76:1583-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2010] [Revised: 05/06/2011] [Accepted: 05/15/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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34
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Vasconcelos J, Cooke R, Jardina D, Aragon F, Veras M, Soriano S, Sobreira N, Scarpa A. Associations among milk production and rectal temperature on pregnancy maintenance in lactating recipient dairy cows. Anim Reprod Sci 2011; 127:140-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2011.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2011] [Revised: 07/10/2011] [Accepted: 07/25/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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35
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The effect of buserelin injection 12 days after insemination on selected reproductive characteristics in cows. ACTA VET BRNO 2011. [DOI: 10.2754/avb201180020171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of buserelin injection on day 12 postinsemination on fertility in lactating dairy cattle. A total of 57 cows were assigned to two groups and four subgroups. In the treatment group, the cows were synchronized with PGF2α-PGF2α (group A) or GnRH-PGF2α (group B) protocol, and buserelin was injected on day 12 postinsemination. Cows in the control group were synchronized with PGF2α-PGF2α (group C) or GnRH-PGF2α (group D) protocol, saline solution was injected on day 12, and served as controls. Pregnancy rates on day 21 and 45 and embryonic death rates were 85.7%, 71.4% and 16.7%, 85.7%, 85.7% and 0.0%, 73.3%, 62.1% and 27.3% and 85.7%, 71.4% and 16.7% in groups A, B, C and D, respectively. There was no significant difference between synchronization protocols for pregnancy rates, and among groups A, B, C and D for pregnancy rates and embryonic death rates. Mean progesterone concentrations in pregnant cows in groups A and B were higher than that in groups C and D, respectively, on day 18 and 21 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, GnRH injection on day 12 postinsemination increased the plasma progesterone concentrations on day 18 and 21 postinsemination. However, it did not alter the pregnancy rates and prevent embryonic deaths.
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Matsunaga S, Osawa T, Geshi M, Takahashi H, Inumaru S, Yokomizo Y, Miyake YI. Effect of a single intrauterine administration of recombinant bovine interferon-τ on day 7 of the estrous cycle on the luteal phase length and blood profile in dairy cows. Res Vet Sci 2011; 93:381-5. [PMID: 21652051 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2011.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2010] [Revised: 03/07/2011] [Accepted: 05/12/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
This study tested the effect of recombinant bovine interferon-tau (rboIFN-τ) on the length of estrous cycle, luteal lifespan and side effects of rboIFN-τ in the cow. A normal estrous cycle in six non-lactating cycling Holstein cows was observed (non-treated cycle), and either 2.0 mg of liposomalized rboIFN-τ (treated cycle) or bovine serum albumin (BSA; placebo cycle) was infused in the uterus on day 7 of the estrous cycle (day 0=day of ovulation). Rectal temperature, heart rate and respiratory rate were recorded and blood samples were collected before and after the treatments. The length of the estrous cycle and corpus luteum lifespan in rboIFN-τ treated cycles were not significantly different from those of the non-treated and placebo cycles. In contrast, the rboIFN-τ treatment caused a transient increase in rectal temperature and a decrease in the number of peripheral lymphocytes and neutrophils after the treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Matsunaga
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Iwate University, Ueda 3-18-8, Morioka 020-8550, Japan
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Vasconcelos J, Sá Filho O, Justolin P, Morelli P, Aragon F, Veras M, Soriano S. Effects of postbreeding gonadotropin treatments on conception rates of lactating dairy cows subjected to timed artificial insemination or embryo transfer in a tropical environment. J Dairy Sci 2011; 94:223-34. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2010-3462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2010] [Accepted: 10/03/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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38
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Rodrigues CA, Teixeira AA, Ferreira RM, Ayres H, Mancilha RF, Souza AH, Baruselli PS. Effect of fixed-time embryo transfer on reproductive efficiency in high-producing repeat-breeder Holstein cows. Anim Reprod Sci 2009; 118:110-7. [PMID: 19640661 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2009.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2008] [Revised: 06/18/2009] [Accepted: 06/29/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to compare a synchronization of time of ovulation protocol for fixed-timed embryo transfer (FTET) with the usual administration of a single dose of prostaglandin associated with detection of estrus. Also, the effect of the presence of CL at the beginning of FTET protocol was evaluated. Lactating Holstein cows (n=651) with three previous artificial inseminations were classified according to presence or absence of a corpus luteum (CL). Cows with a CL were randomly assigned to two additional treatments and submitted to embryo transfer after detection of estrus (PGF-Estrus) or FTET (FTET-CL). Cows without CL were allocated to the FTET-NoCL treatment. On a random day of the estrous cycle (Day 0), cows in the PGF-Estrus treatment (n=229) were treated with 150 microg d-cloprostenol (PGF) i.m. followed by detection of estrus from Day 1 through Day 5 after PGF. Embryos were transferred 6-8 days after estrus detection. Cows in the FTET-CL (n=208; presence of CL) and FTET-NoCL (n=214; absence of CL) treatments received a norgestomet ear implant plus 2mg estradiol benzoate (EB) and 50mg progesterone i.m. on Day 0. On Day 8, the implant was removed and 400 IUeCG, 150 microg d-cloprostenol and 1mg estradiol cypionate i.m. were administered. No detection of estrus was performed and Day 10 was arbitrarily considered as the estrus day. Ultrasonographic exams were performed in all recipients and only cows with a single CL> or =15 mm or multiple CL received a fresh or frozen-thawed embryo on Day 17. Pregnancy was diagnosed by ultrasonography at 30 and 60 days of pregnancy. When FTET and PGF-Estrus were compared, the proportion of cows receiving an embryo (recipients transferred-to-treated rate) was greater in the FTET-CL (75.0% (156/208) than in PGF-Estrus (34.5%, 79/229; P<0.0001) treatment. Pregnancy rate (60 days) was also greater in FTET-CL (29.3%, 61/208) when compared to PGF-Estrus (16.2%, 37/229; P=0.001). However, no differences were found in pregnancy loss [PGF-Estrus=11.9% (5/42), FTET-CL=9.0% (6/67); P=0.62] and circulating progesterone concentration at embryo transfer [PGF-Estrus=4.02+/-0.52 ng/mL (n=25), FTET-CL=3.33+/-0.32 ng/mL (n=27); P=0.25] among these treatments. The presence of CL at the beginning of FTET protocol resulted greater transferred-to-treated rate [FTET-CL=75.0% (156/208) vs. FTET-NoCL=61.2% (131/214); P=0.003], but showed no effect on pregnancy rate at 60 days [FTET-CL=29.3% (61/208) vs. FTET-NoCL=22.9% (49/214); P=0.13], pregnancy loss [FTET-CL=9.0% (6/67) vs. FTET-NoCL=2.0% (1/50); P=0.15] and circulating progesterone concentration at ET [FTET-CL=3.33+/-0.32 ng/mL (n=27) compared to FTET-NoCL=3.44+/-0.40 ng/mL (n=2 9); P=0.82]. In conclusion, the protocol for synchronization of time of ovulation using norgestomet ear implant, EB and eCG increased recipients transferred-to-treated and pregnancy rates in high-producing repeat-breeder Holstein cows. Also, recipients without CL at the beginning of the time of ovulation synchronization treatment resulted in similar pregnancy rate as recipients with CL submitted to FTET protocol. Thus, the suggested protocol allowed the performance of FTET, without the need for detection of estrus, simplifying the reproductive management and increasing the reproductive efficiency in repeat-breeder Holstein recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Rodrigues
- SAMVET Embriões, Rua Getúlio Vargas 300, CEP 13560-000, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
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39
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Chebel RC, Demétrio DGB, Metzger J. Factors affecting success of embryo collection and transfer in large dairy herds. Theriogenology 2007; 69:98-106. [PMID: 18023856 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2007.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Our objective was to evaluate factors that affected the success of embryo transfer programs in large dairy herds. Non-lactating donor cows produced a larger number of ova/embryos (P<0.01) and viable embryos (P<0.01) than lactating cows. The interaction between season and donor class was correlated with the proportion of ova/embryos classified as fertilized (P=0.03), because lactating donors had fewer fertilized ova in the summer. There was no correlation between 305-day mature equivalent milk yield and response to superstimulation. Although the interval between superstimulation protocols was correlated with the number of ova/embryos (P=0.03), there was no correlation with the number of viable embryos. Pregnancy per embryo transfer (P/ET) in heifer recipients was correlated with embryo quality grade (P<0.01), season (P=0.04), and whether embryos were fresh or frozen/thawed (P<0.01). Lactating recipient cows tended to have a lower rate of P/ET during the summer (P=0.12 to P=0.08). Synchronization protocols tended to be (P=0.06; Herd 1) or were (P=0.02; Herd 2) correlated with P/ET. Lactating cows receiving vitrified IVF embryos had a lower (P=0.01) P/ET than those receiving fresh IVF embryos, especially in the summer (P=0.09). Milk yield was not correlated with P/ET. The use of heat abatement systems is critical to improve embryo production and P/ET. Synchronization protocols that optimized synchrony of ovulation may increase fertility of recipient cows and eliminate the need for estrous detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- R C Chebel
- Veterinary Medicine Cooperative Extension, University of California Davis, Tulare, CA 93274, USA.
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Son DS, Choe CY, Cho SR, Choi SH, Kim HJ, Hur TY, Jung YG, Kang HG, Kim IH. A CIDR-based timed embryo transfer protocol increases the pregnancy rate of lactating repeat breeder dairy cows. J Reprod Dev 2007; 53:1313-8. [PMID: 17827880 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.19066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This study evaluated the pregnancy rates following either a controlled internal drug release (CIDR)-based timed artificial insemination (TAI) or an embryo transfer (TET) protocol compared with that following a single PGF(2alpha) injection and AI after estrus (AIE) in lactating repeat breeder dairy cows. Fifty-three lactating dairy cows diagnosed as repeat breeders were used in this study and were randomly assigned to the following three treatments. (1) Cows, at random stages of the estrous cycle, received a CIDR device and 2 mg estradiol benzoate (EB; Day 0), a 25 mg PGF(2) (alpha) injection at the time of CIDR removal on Day 7 and a 1 mg EB injection on Day 8. The cows then received TAI 30 h (Day 9) after the second EB injection using dairy semen (TAI group, n=13). (2) Cows, at random stages of the estrous cycle, received the same hormonal treatments as in the TAI group. The cows then received TET on Day 16 using frozen-thawed blastocysts or morula embryos collected from Korean native cattle donors (TET group, n=13). (3) Cows, at the luteal phase, received a 25 mg injection of PGF(2alpha) and AIE using dairy semen (control group, n=27). The ovaries of the cows in the TET group were examined by transrectal ultrasonography to determine ovulation of the preovulatory follicles, and blood samples were collected for serum progesterone (P4) analysis. The pregnancy rate was significantly higher in the TET group (53.8%) than in the control (18.5%) or TAI (7.7%) groups (P<0.05). The ultrasonographic observations demonstrated that all the cows in the TET group ovulated the preovulatory follicles and concomitantly formed new corpora lutea. Accordingly, the mean serum P4 concentration remained constant between Day 0 and Day 7 of the luteal phase, decreased dramatically on Day 8 (P<0.01) and subsequently increased by Day 16 (P<0.01). These data suggest that the CIDR-based TET protocol can be used to effectively increase the pregnancy rate in lactating repeat breeder dairy cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Soo Son
- Animal Genetic Resources Station, National Institute of Animal Science, RDA, Namwon 590-832, Korea.
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Abstract
Early pregnancy failure or loss (EPL) represents a major source of wastage and inefficiency in livestock production systems. Although successful embryo development is dependent upon genetic and epigenetic contributions from both the male and female, potential adverse male affects on embryo quality and development are probably often underestimated. Of adverse male effects which have been identified, those associated with sperm and semen "quality" have been best characterized. In turn, although many factors can adversely impact semen quality, the mechanisms involved are relatively few. This presents opportunities for identifying biological markers for spermatogenic damage, as well as protective measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- P J Chenoweth
- School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, P.O. Box 588, Wagg Wagga, New South Wales 2650, Australia.
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Block J, Hansen PJ. Interaction between season and culture with insulin-like growth factor-1 on survival of in vitro produced embryos following transfer to lactating dairy cows. Theriogenology 2007; 67:1518-29. [PMID: 17452048 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2007.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2006] [Accepted: 03/14/2007] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Culture of bovine embryos in the presence of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) can increase pregnancy rates following transfer to heat-stressed, lactating dairy cows. The objective of the present experiment was to determine whether the effect of IGF-1 on post-transfer embryo survival was a general effect or one specific to heat stress. Lactating recipients (n=311) were synchronized for timed-embryo transfer at four locations. Embryos were produced in vitro and cultured with or without 100 ng/mL IGF-1. At Day 7 after anticipated ovulation (Day 0), a single embryo was randomly transferred to each recipient. Pregnancy was diagnosed at Day 21 by elevated plasma progesterone concentrations, at Days 27-32 by ultrasonography, and at Days 41-49 by transrectal palpation. Transfers were categorized into two seasons, hot or cool (based on the month of transfer). There was a tendency (P<0.09) for an interaction between embryo treatment and season for pregnancy rate at Day 21; this interaction was significant at Days 30 and 45 (P<0.02). Recipients receiving IGF-1 treated embryos had higher pregnancy rates in the hot season but not in the cool season. There was a similar interaction between embryo treatment and season for overall calving rate (P<0.05). There was also an interaction between season and treatment affecting pregnancy loss between Days 21 and 30; recipients that received IGF-1 treated embryos had less pregnancy loss during this time period in the hot season but not in the cool season. The overall proportion of male calves born was 77.5%. In conclusion, treatment of embryos with IGF-1 improved pregnancy and calving rates following the transfer of in vitro produced embryos into lactating recipients, but only under heat-stress conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Block
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611-0910, USA
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Jousan FD, de Castro e Paula LA, Block J, Hansen PJ. Fertility of Lactating Dairy Cows Administered Recombinant Bovine Somatotropin During Heat Stress. J Dairy Sci 2007; 90:341-51. [PMID: 17183102 DOI: 10.3168/jds.s0022-0302(07)72635-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Administration of recombinant bovine somatotropin (bST) to lactating dairy cows during heat stress increases milk yield, but it also can increase body temperature and may therefore compromise fertility. However, it is possible that bST treatment could increase fertility during heat stress because it has been reported to increase fertility in lactating cows. In addition, bST increases secretion of insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) that promotes embryo survival. The purpose of this study was to determine effects of bST on reproductive function in lactating dairy cows during heat stress. The experiment was conducted in southern Georgia from July to November 2005 using lactating Holstein cows (n = 276 for reproductive traits). For first service timed artificial insemination (TAI), cows were presynchronized with 2 injections of PGF(2alpha) given 14 d apart followed by a modified Ovsynch protocol (GnRH and insemination at 72 h following PGF(2alpha) ). Pregnancy was diagnosed by using ultrasonography on d 29 and reconfirmed by palpation between d 45 and 80 post-TAI. Nonpregnant cows were resynchronized with the modified Ovsynch protocol and received a second TAI. Treatment with bST started 1 wk before the start of Ovsynch and continued at 2-wk intervals. Blood samples were collected from a subset of cows to determine IGF-I profiles immediately before the first bST injection, 1 wk later, and at d 35 of bST treatment. Rectal temperatures were assessed on d 29 of bST treatment. Pregnancy rates (d 45 to 80 post-TAI) did not differ between bST and control cows for first- (16.7 vs. 15.2%) or second-service TAI (14.8 vs. 17.2%). Plasma concentrations of IGF-I and milk yield were greater for bST-treated cows following the initiation of bST treatment and bST increased rectal and vaginal temperatures. Body condition score was less for bST-treated cows. In conclusion, treatment with bST during heat stress increased IGF-I concentrations, milk yield over time, and rectal and vaginal temperatures without affecting first- or second-service pregnancy rates. Thus, at least under certain housing conditions, bST can be used to improve milk yield during heat stress without compromising fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- F D Jousan
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611-0910, USA
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