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Taru M, Katoh T, Koshimizu K, Kuribayashi S, Miura R, Hamano S, Shirasuna K. Inflammatory uterine microenvironment in long-term infertility repeat breeder cows compared with normal fertile cows. Vet Anim Sci 2024; 25:100369. [PMID: 38984268 PMCID: PMC11231747 DOI: 10.1016/j.vas.2024.100369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The reproductive performance of lactating dairy cows is gradually declining, and one of the causes of this problem is the presence of long-term infertility repeat breeder cows (RBCs). The causes of RBCs are largely thought to be maternal factors, including the uterine environment. This study aimed to accurately investigate the uterine environment of RBCs using uterine tissue and fluid. Next, we investigated the effect of nobiletin in bovine endometrial epithelial cells to explore the possibility of improving the uterine environment of RBCs. Uterine fluid was collected by flushing the uterus and endometrial tissues were collected by biopsy on day 7 of the estrous cycle from both normal fertile cows and RBCs (n = 5 in each group). A comprehensive analysis of the uterus revealed that gene expression and altered pathways differed between normal fertile cows and RBCs. Especially, pathways of natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity, cell cycle, and calcium signaling pathway were picked up in the uterine tissues of RBCs. In the uterine fluid, the levels of lipopolysaccharide were higher in the RBC than in normal group (P = 0.08). In in vitro experiment, treatment with the uterine fluid from RBCs upregulated inflammation-related pathways and molecules such as interleukin-8 (IL-8) in bovine endometrial epithelial cells. The treatment with nobiletin suppressed IL-8 induced by the treatment with uterine fluid. In conclusion, the uterine environment of RBCs was found to be in inflammatory condition, causing the lower reproductive performance. It is necessary to develop methods to improve to the anti-inflammatory state in the uterine environment of RBCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maho Taru
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
| | - Taiga Katoh
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
| | - Karen Koshimizu
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
| | - Sohei Kuribayashi
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
| | - Ryotaro Miura
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo 180-8602, Japan
| | - Seizo Hamano
- Artificial Insemination Association of Japan, Tokyo 135-0041, Japan
| | - Koumei Shirasuna
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
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Isobe T, Kajihara Y, Ikebata Y. Influences of oxidative stress and energy balance on pregnancy rates after the transfer of embryos to repeat-breeder Japanese Black cattle. Anim Sci J 2024; 95:e13947. [PMID: 38661251 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to reassess our previously reported findings on the diminished pregnancy rate of embryo transfer (ET) in summer for repeat-breeder (RB) cows compared with other seasons, with a focus on oxidative stress and energy balance. The study involved Japanese Black cattle, including 224 heifers (aged <3 years) and 278 (aged <9 years) cows with one or more deliveries, defined as RB animals. Evaluation of the effects of season on pregnancy rates revealed significantly lower rates in RB cows during summer compared with spring and autumn. Moreover, serum malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration in RB cows during summer was significantly higher than in winter, with no difference in RB heifers. Seasonal effects on serum nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentration in both RB heifers and RB cows showed no significant differences. However, median MDA and NEFA concentrations in RB cows were significantly elevated compared with RB heifers, suggesting that factors contributing to low fertility should consider parity. Furthermore, our study indicated that RB cows were under oxidative stress, as demonstrated by significantly elevated MDA concentrations compared with normally reproducing cows in summer. Further investigation is necessary to gain a better understanding of these observations in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomohiro Isobe
- Laboratory of Cell Genetics and Embryo Transfer, Cattle Breeding Development Institute, Kagoshima, Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan
| | - Yuusuke Kajihara
- Laboratory of Cell Genetics and Embryo Transfer, Cattle Breeding Development Institute, Kagoshima, Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Ikebata
- Laboratory of Cell Genetics and Embryo Transfer, Cattle Breeding Development Institute, Kagoshima, Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan
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3
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Pérez-Marín CC, Quintela LA. Current Insights in the Repeat Breeder Cow Syndrome. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2187. [PMID: 37443985 DOI: 10.3390/ani13132187] [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: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cows can have difficulties becoming pregnant, and in certain cases, these reproductive failures do not have an evident cause. Furthermore, when these failures are repeated three or more times with estrous cycles of normal duration and in the absence of evident clinical signs, it is considered repeat breeder cow (RBC) syndrome. A substantive incidence of RBC syndrome has been reported all over the world, which severely affects the farm economy. This paper reviews those studies particularly focused on RBC syndrome from 2000 to 2023 but also includes consolidated information until this date. Hormonal imbalances, undetectable oviductal or uterine defects, or poor oocyte or embryo quality have been reported as causes of RBC syndrome, while subclinical endometritis has been considered a relevant causal agent. However, it is unresolved why this condition is recurrent in certain animals, despite the implementation of corrective management actions or treatments. Recent studies evaluate the putative role of certain genes, factors, hormones, or proteins in the pathogenesis of RBC syndrome. Numerous risk factors contribute to the appearance of this syndrome, and some of them could be mitigated to partially prevent this infertility, while others cannot be changed. Due to the complexity of this syndrome, it is important to increase knowledge about the mechanisms involved, develop new diagnostic tools to differentiate causal agents, and implement new treatments to restore fertility. There is consensus about the huge repercussions of this syndrome on farm profitability, but further studies are now needed to describe its economic impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Carmelo Pérez-Marín
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cordoba, 14014 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Luis Angel Quintela
- Unit of Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Animal Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 27002 Lugo, Spain
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Chen F, Hou Y, Zhu X, Mei C, Guo R, Shi Z. Impact of Accessory Corpus Luteum Induced by Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone or Human Chorionic Gonadotropin on Pregnancy Rates of Dairy Cattle following Embryo Transfer: A META-Analysis. Vet Sci 2023; 10:vetsci10050309. [PMID: 37235391 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10050309] [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: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The circulation of progesterone (P4) concentrations of recipients has positive correlations with embryo survival and pregnancy success of embryo transfer (ET) in dairy cows. One strategy to improve P4 concentration is the administration of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) or human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), thereby inducing the formation of accessory corpus luteum (CL). This study aimed at determining the efficacy of GnRH or hCG treatment regarding embryo transfer (ET) and providing a better clinical veterinary practice guidance. A meta-analysis was conducted on the data from 2048 treated recipient cows and 1546 untreated cows. By inducing the formation of accessory CL with GnRH (100 µg), GnRH analogue Buserelin (8-10 µg), or hCG (≥1500 IU) 5-11 days after synchronized ovulation, hCG alone achieved an improvement (RR = 1.39, p < 0.05), while GnRH and GnRH analogue did not result in significant changes (RR = 1.04, p = 0.26). Treatment with GnRH or hCG 5-7 days after synchronized ovulation was associated with increased chances of pregnancy compared with later treatment (11-14 days). Owing to the treatment, the pregnancy rate of cows with very poor fertility (<40%) was improved, while that of cows with good fertility (≥40%) was not affected. Treatment with GnRH or hCG greatly improved pregnancy rates of parous lactating cows (RR = 1.32, p < 0.05) compared with heifers (RR = 1.02, p > 0.05). Additionally, as indicated by pregnancy loss analysis, the treatment had no benefit on late embryo/early fetus survival at days 28-81. In conclusion, the induction of accessory CL with GnRH or hCG may benefit fertility and have important implications for the management of reproductive performance in the dairy industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Chen
- Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Yi'an Hou
- Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Xiaoqing Zhu
- Science and Technology Industry Development Center, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Cheng Mei
- Dongying Austasia Modern Dairy Farm Co., Ltd., Dongying 257345, China
| | - Rihong Guo
- Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
- Key Laboratory of Crop and Animal Integrated Farming, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Zhendan Shi
- Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Food Quality and Safety-State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Ministry of Science and Technology, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
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Islam MN, Habib MR, Khandakar MMH, Rashid MH, Sarker MAH, Bari MS, Islam MZ, Alam MK, Sarkar MM, Jahan R, Mahzabin R, Islam MA. Repeat breeding: prevalence and potential causes in dairy cows at different milk pocket areas of Bangladesh. Trop Anim Health Prod 2023; 55:120. [PMID: 36930420 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-023-03537-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to figure out the prevalence and probable causes of repeat breeding (RB) in dairy cows. Hence, a cross-sectional study was conducted on randomly selected 265 dairy farms in Sirajganj, Bogura, Rangpur, Satkhira, and Munshiganj districts of Bangladesh from December 2018 to February 2019. Data were collected through a direct interview method using a survey questionnaire. The reproductive organs of repeat breeder cows were examined for pathological, infectious, and functional reasons, and genital tract abnormalities. Additionally, the influence of nutrition, season, and age on the frequency of RB was recorded. The prevalence of RB was 28% among the 3824 cows investigated. Among the total repeat breeder cases, 72.54% of RB cases were found in Holstein-Friesian crossbred, 23.90% in Jersey crossbred, 1.50% in Sahiwal crossbred, and 2.06% in indigenous cows. The prevalence of RB was significantly highest (P < 0.01) in Satkhira (44.35%) and lowest in the Munshiganj district (15.87%). Data indicated that a major proportion of cows significantly (P < 0.05) faced RB problems due to functional causes (34.18%), followed by pathological causes (28.01%), genital tract abnormalities (21.32%), and infectious causes (16.49%). Furthermore, the cows were remarkably (P < 0.001) affected in RB during the summer season and nutritional deficient diseases like milk fever (70%). Age (3-7 years) had a significant (P < 0.001) effect on the RB occurrence (90%) in crossbred cows. However, particular focus should be given to systematic breeding, balanced nutrition, artificial inseminator efficiency, and hygienic inseminating tools to reduce RB incidence in high-yielding crossbred cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- M N Islam
- Department of Dairy Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
- Bangladesh Milk Producer's Co-Operative Union Limited (Milk Vita), Tejgaon, Dhaka, 1208, Bangladesh
| | - M R Habib
- Department of Dairy Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
| | - M M H Khandakar
- Department of Dairy Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
| | - M H Rashid
- Department of Dairy Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
| | - M A H Sarker
- Department of Dairy Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
| | - M S Bari
- Department of Dairy Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
| | - M Z Islam
- Department of Dairy Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
| | - M K Alam
- Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - M M Sarkar
- Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF), Agargaon, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - R Jahan
- Department of Animal Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
| | - R Mahzabin
- Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
| | - M A Islam
- Department of Dairy Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh.
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Vikram R, Perumal P, Khan MH, Girish PS. Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) in Mithun (Bos frontalis): What progress has been made so far? An overview. Reprod Domest Anim 2023; 58:583-593. [PMID: 36808162 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14331] [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: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
Mithun, a unique bovine species, endemic to parts of North East India and plays an important role in the socioeconomic, cultural and religious fabrics of the local tribal population. To date, Mithuns are reared in a traditional free-range system by communities and increased deforestation, agricultural commercialization, disease outbreaks and indiscriminate slaughtering of elite Mithun for table purposes have significantly decreased its habitat and the elite Mithun population. Greater genetic gain is achieved with the implementation and effective use of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs); however, presently it is limited to organized Mithun farms. At a slow pace, Mithun farmers are adopting semi-intensive rearing systems and interest in the use of ARTs is gradually escalating in Mithun husbandry. This article reviews the current status of ARTs such as semen collection and cryopreservation, estrus synchronization and timed artificial insemination (TAI), multiple ovulation and embryo transfer and in vitro embryo production and future perspectives in Mithun. Mithun semen collection and cryopreservation have been standardized, and estrus synchronization and TAI are suitable technologies that can be easily implemented under field conditions in near future. The establishment of an open nucleus-breeding system under community participatory mode along with the introduction of the ARTs is an alternative to the traditional breeding system for rapid genetic improvement of Mithun. Finally, the review considers the potential benefits of ARTs in Mithun and future research should include the use of these ARTs which will provide additional opportunities for improved breeding regimens in Mithun.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Vikram
- Animal Reproduction and Gynecology, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema, India
| | - P Perumal
- Animal Reproduction and Gynaecology, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Port Blair, India
| | - M H Khan
- Animal Reproduction and Gynecology, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema, India
| | - P S Girish
- Livestock Products Technology, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema, India
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7
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Longitudinal effect of repeat breeding in Japanese Black beef cattle at a low parity on subsequent fertility in commercial cow–calf operations. Theriogenology 2022; 189:177-182. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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8
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López-Gatius F, Saleri R, De Rensis F, Llobera-Balcells M, Garcia-Ispierto I. Transfer of a single fresh in vitro-produced embryo may prevent twin pregnancy without compromising the fertility of the cow. Reprod Domest Anim 2022; 57:450-455. [PMID: 34978732 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study examines whether the transfer of a fresh in vitro-produced (IVP) embryo can avoid the risk of twin pregnancy without reducing the fertility of a cow. The study population was comprised of 416 lactating dairy cows synchronized for oestrus: 294 were fixed-time inseminated (AI cows), and 122 were given GnRH treatment at the time of embryo transfer (ET) an IVP embryo (ET cows). Of the 416 cows, 167 (40.1%) became pregnant. Twin pregnancy was recorded in 20.8% of the AI pregnant cows (21/101), whereas no ET cows had twins (0/66). Significant interaction (p < .01) was observed between breeding technique and the period of the year for the likelihood of pregnancy. This meant that using AI cows during the warm period (May-September) as reference, the odds ratio for pregnancy in ET cows during the warm period was 3.4 (p = .001). In conclusion, transfer of a single fresh IVP embryo proved useful to prevent the risk of twin pregnancy without affecting fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando López-Gatius
- Agrotecnio Centre, Lleida, Spain.,Transfer in Bovine Reproduction SLu, Barbastro, Spain
| | - Roberta Saleri
- Veterinary Medical-Science, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Fabio De Rensis
- Veterinary Medical-Science, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Irina Garcia-Ispierto
- Agrotecnio Centre, Lleida, Spain.,Animal Science, University of Lleida, Lleida, Spain
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Yamazaki T, Takeda H, Sasaki O. Simulation of the lifetime productivity of a dairy herd in Japan according to the number of days to first service of cows. Anim Sci J 2022; 93:e13740. [PMID: 35670449 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13740] [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: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
To determine the optimal voluntary waiting period to first service after calving for maximizing the lifetime productivity of cows in a dairy herd, we simulated the changes in lifetime productivity due to increasing the number of days from calving to first service. We also assessed the effects of changes in the maximum number of services within a lactation, maximum number of calvings, and calf sale prices on lifetime productivity. We evaluated lifetime productivity as lifetime average productivity, that is, the sum of daily revenues from milk and calf sales from first calving to culling. The lifetime productivity at ≤65 days to first service was low because of the low conception rate during early lactation. In addition, lifetime productivity at ≥185 days to first service decreased as the number of days to first service increased. The number of days to first service for maximum lifetime productivity decreased as the maximum number of calvings increased. Furthermore, the decrease in lifetime productivity associated with decreasing the maximum number of services within a lactation from five to four was greater than that when the maximum number of calvings was decreased from six to five.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hisato Takeda
- Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, NARO, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Osamu Sasaki
- Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, NARO, Tsukuba, Japan
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10
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Acetoacetate is a trigger of NLRP3 inflammasome activation in bovine peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2021; 244:110370. [PMID: 34952251 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2021.110370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Repeat breeding, which is non-pregnancy following three or more breeding attempts, is a serious reproductive disorder in cattle. In the present study, metabolomic profiling was used to identify metabolites in the blood plasma of repeat breeder cows (RBCs) and non-RBCs. Metabolomic analysis showed that acetoacetate (AcAc), a ketone body, was detected in RBCs, but not in non-RBCs. In contrast, β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) was at similar levels in both RBCs and non-RBCs. We hypothesized that an imbalance of AcAc and BHB induces abnormal inflammatory conditions, especially the NLRP3 inflammasome, which regulates sterile inflammation to control interleukin (IL)-1β secretion, and may be associated with repeat breeding in cattle. To investigate this hypothesis, blood samples were collected from both non-RBCs and RBCs on day 7 of the estrous cycle. The mRNA expression of IL1B in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was observed to be higher in RBCs than in non-RBCs. To test the effects of AcAc and BHB on inflammatory responses, blood samples were collected from healthy cows and PBMCs were isolated. PBMCs were treated with AcAc and BHB to investigate the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome (complex of NLRP3, ASC, and caspase-1) and IL-1β secretion. AcAc treatment resulted in higher protein and/or mRNA expression of NLRP3 and IL-1β in PBMCs. Moreover, AcAc increased the co-localization of NLRP3 and ASC and stimulated caspase-1 activation, indicating the formation of the platform of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Addition of specific NLRP3 inhibitor, MCC950, suppressed AcAc stimulation-induced IL-1β secretion. Contrary to the effects of AcAc, BHB treatment suppressed the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and IL-1β secretion in response to AcAc and typical NLRP3 inflammasome triggers. These findings demonstrate that AcAc can potentially trigger NLRP3 inflammasome activation, resulting in IL-1β secretion, and that these inflammatory responses are suppressed by BHB in bovine PBMCs. In addition, the imbalance between AcAc and BHB with higher levels of IL-1β may be associated with repeat breeding in cattle.
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11
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Embryo Transfer as an Option to Improve Fertility in Repeat Breeder Dairy Cows. J Vet Res 2021; 65:231-237. [PMID: 34250309 PMCID: PMC8256464 DOI: 10.2478/jvetres-2021-0018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Repeat breeding is a serious reproductive disorder in dairy cattle. The causes of repeat breeding are multifactorial and there are two main mechanisms: failure of fertilisation or early embryo death, mainly due to poor quality of oocytes and an inadequate uterine environment. Many methods have been used to increase the pregnancy rate for repeat breeder cows, such as intrauterine infusion of antibacterial agents or antibiotics, hormonal treatments for oestrus synchronisation and induction of ovulation, and progesterone supplementation or induction of accessory corpus luteum; however, the results were inconsistent between studies. Embryo transfer (ET) has the capability to minimalise the effects of poor oocyte quality and unfavourable uterine environments on early embryo development during the first seven days after ovulation in repeat breeder cows, and several studies showed that ET significantly improved the pregnancy rate in this group of animals. Thus, ET can be considered an option to increase the conception rate in repeat breeder dairy cows.
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Funeshima N, Miura R, Katoh T, Yaginuma H, Kitou T, Yoshimura I, Konda K, Hamano S, Shirasuna K. Metabolomic profiles of plasma and uterine luminal fluids from healthy and repeat breeder Holstein cows. BMC Vet Res 2021; 17:54. [PMID: 33509174 PMCID: PMC7842029 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-021-02755-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Repeat breeding is a critical reproductive disorder in cattle. The problem of repeat breeder cattle remains largely unmanageable due to a lack of informative biomarkers. Here, we utilized metabolomic profiling in an attempt to identify metabolites in the blood plasma and uterine luminal fluids. We collected blood and uterine fluid from repeat breeder and healthy cows on day 7 of the estrous cycle. Results Metabolomic analysis identified 17 plasma metabolites detected at concentrations that distinguished between the two groups, including decreased various bile acids among the repeat breeders. However, no metabolites that varied significantly were detected in the uterine luminal fluids between two groups. Among the plasma samples, kynurenine was identified as undergoing the most significant variation. Kynurenine is a metabolite produced from tryptophan via the actions of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO). As IDO is key for maternal immune tolerance and induced in response to interferon tau (IFNT, ruminant maternal recognition of pregnancy factor), we examined the responsiveness to IFNT on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) isolated from healthy and repeat breeder cows. The mRNA expression of IFNT-response makers (ISG15 and MX2) were significantly increased by IFNT treatment in a dose-dependent manner in both groups. Although treatment with IFNT promoted the expression of IDO in PBMCs from both groups, it did so at a substantially reduced rate among the repeat breeder cows, suggesting that decreased levels of kynurenine may relate to the reduced IDO expression in repeat breeder cows. Conclusions These findings provide valuable information towards the identification of critical biomarkers for repeat breeding syndrome in cattle. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12917-021-02755-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natsumi Funeshima
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Atsugi, Kanagawa, 243-0034, Japan
| | - Ryotaro Miura
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Musashino, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan
| | - Taiga Katoh
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Atsugi, Kanagawa, 243-0034, Japan
| | - Hikari Yaginuma
- Animal Bio-Technology Center, Livestock Improvement Association of Japan Inc., Shinagawa, Tokyo, 135-0041, Japan
| | - Takeshi Kitou
- Animal Bio-Technology Center, Livestock Improvement Association of Japan Inc., Shinagawa, Tokyo, 135-0041, Japan
| | - Itaru Yoshimura
- Fuji Animal Research Farm, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Kawaguchiko, Yamanashi, 401-3338, Japan
| | - Kunitoshi Konda
- Kanagawa Prefectural Livestock Industry Technology Center, Ebina, Kanagawa, 243-0417, Japan
| | - Seizo Hamano
- Maebashi Institute of Animal Science, Livestock Improvement Association of Japan Inc., Maebashi, Gunma, 371-0121, Japan
| | - Koumei Shirasuna
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Atsugi, Kanagawa, 243-0034, Japan.
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13
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Ferreira FC, Marcondes MI, Santos JEP, De Vries A. Economic analysis of the use of in vitro produced embryos transferred during heat stress under dairy herd constraints. Animal 2021; 15:100117. [PMID: 33573948 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2020.100117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of embryo transfer helps to improve reproductive performance during periods of heat stress. In vitro produced embryo transfer (IVP-ET) is more expensive than artificial insemination. We hypothesized that the value IVP-ET in seasonal herds depends on herd constraints, such as the maximum number of milking cows and the maximum number of calvings that can be accommodated throughout the year. Therefore, the objective of this study was to estimate how profitability in dairy herds exposed to summer heat stress is affected by the number of months in which IVP-ET is used, the use of IVP-ET in repeat-breeder cows, IVP-ET cost, and herd constraints. We built and used a nonlinear programming model of a dairy herd with young stock and cows with monthly Markov Chain transitions. The model varied the number of heifers calving in each calendar month to maximize herd profitability. We varied IVP-ET cost ($100 or $200), duration of the IVP-ET program (2 or 4 months), and the breeding number in which IVP-ET started (1st or 3rd). In total, 20 scenarios were simulated. Maximum profitability was obtained when IVP-ET was not used, regardless of herd constraints. The 16 scenarios in which IVP-ET was used showed increased seasonality in milk yield, numbers of milking cows, total cows, total calvings, and heifer calvings because the program tried to limit the number of IVP-ET breedings in the summer. The addition of the calving constraint increased the value of IVP-ET. The breakeven cost per IVP-ET ranged from -$6.79 to $24.38 compared with conventional semen cost of $20. In conclusion, the current market costs of IVP-ET did not warrant application with the objective to increase reproductive performance during heat stress. Herd constraints on the maximum allowable seasonality in the monthly number of milking cows and calvings affected the value of IVP-ET during heat stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- F C Ferreira
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, P. O. Box 110910, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - M I Marcondes
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, P. O. Box 110910, Gainesville, FL, USA; Department of Animal Science, Viçosa Federal University, Av P.H. Rolfs, sn, Viçosa, MG 36570-900, Brazil
| | - J E P Santos
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, P. O. Box 110910, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - A De Vries
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, P. O. Box 110910, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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Effect of progesterone, human chorionic gonadotropin and progesterone + human chorionic gonadotropin treatment on conception rates in repeat breeder cows. ACTA VET BRNO 2021. [DOI: 10.2754/avb202089040307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of hormonal support on the pregnancy rate in repeat breeder cows. Prostaglandin F2α + Ovsynch oestrus synchronization protocol was applied to the cows. Following the fixed time insemination (day 0), the cows were divided into 4 groups. In Group 1 (n = 42), progesterone releasing intravaginal device (PRID) was placed vaginally at 84 h and removed on the 9th day after the artificial insemination. In Group 2 (n = 40), the cows were administered human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) on the 7th day. Group 3 (n = 45) was applied a combination of progesterone and hCG. Group 4 (n = 42) was not given any treatment. Blood samples were collected from all cows 4 times on days 3.5, 7, 12, and 18 to evaluate progesterone concentrations. The pregnancy rates were 40.47%, 37.50%, 44.44%, and 30.95% in Group 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively (P > 0.05). In addition, in cows with progesterone concentrations <2 ng/ml on day 3.5, the pregnancy rates were found to be lower than in the cows with progesterone concentrations >2 ng/ml in Group 4 (P < 0.05). Progesterone supplementation in cows with progesterone concentrations < 2 ng/ml appeared to increase pregnancy rates (P < 0.05) in Groups 1 and 3. As a result, post-insemination hormonal applications in the repeat breeder cows did not increase the pregnancy rate. However, it was concluded that determination of progesterone concentrations on day 3.5 following artificial insemination and then hormonal support in the cows with low concentrations would increased the pregnancy rate.
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15
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Garcia-Ispierto I, López-Gatius F. Benefits and Risks of Preventing Twin Pregnancies. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11010148. [PMID: 33440763 PMCID: PMC7827721 DOI: 10.3390/ani11010148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical problems associated with twin pregnancies have been well established, and twin births are now considered undesirable or even disastrous for the dairy cattle industry and the individual cow. The high incidence of early fetal loss, abortion during the mid-lactation period, dystocia, stillbirth, and placenta retention should be considered a preventable consequence of management, as these disorders greatly compromise the welfare and productive lifespan of a cow carrying or delivering twins. The use of sexed semen generates herd replacements and additional heifers, so a proposed strategy for twin pregnancy prevention is the transfer of a single in vitro-produced female beef cow embryo to cows not suitable for producing replacements. Another proposed strategy is drainage at insemination of co-dominant follicles to prevent twin pregnancies in cows with genetic merit. As a result, embryo survival should improve, economic losses associated with twin pregnancies will be prevented, beef output from the herd will be increased, and the health and welfare of the cow will certainly benefit. In this review, the clinical prospects of preventing or avoiding twin pregnancies using both procedures are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Garcia-Ispierto
- Agrotecnio Centre, 25198 Lleida, Spain;
- Department of Animal Science, University of Lleida, 25198 Lleida, Spain
| | - Fernando López-Gatius
- Agrotecnio Centre, 25198 Lleida, Spain;
- Transfer in Bovine Reproduction SLu, 22300 Barbastro, Spain
- Correspondence:
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16
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Reproductive Outcomes and Endocrine Profile in Artificially Inseminated versus Embryo Transferred Cows. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10081359. [PMID: 32781545 PMCID: PMC7459650 DOI: 10.3390/ani10081359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Bovine embryos are nowadays produced in laboratories, frozen and transferred to other cows. However, the percentage of pregnancies obtained after these transfers as well as difficulties found during labor, especially due to increased size of calves, are a matter of great concern. One of the possible explanations for these problems relies on the embryo being produced in in vitro conditions (laboratory settings), more specifically the culture medium (liquid) used to develop these embryos. In an attempt to better mimic what happens naturally, female reproductive liquids (from oviducts and uterus) were used as a supplement to the culture of the embryos. As controls, embryos produced using the standard protocol in the laboratory were produced, as well as embryos derived from artificial insemination of cows (in vivo). An evaluation on the pregnancy rates, how the hormonal profile of the recipients changed during pregnancy, difficulties during parturitions, and phenotype of calves were recorded. Results showed that all the groups were very similar, but many differences were noted on the hormonal profiles during pregnancy. In conclusion, all systems provided safe production of calves, but long-term analysis of these calves is necessary to understand the future impact of the laboratory protocols. Abstract The increasing use of in vitro embryo production (IVP) followed by embryo transfer (ET), alongside with cryopreservation of embryos, has risen concerns regarding the possible altered pregnancy rates, calving or even neonatal mortality. One of the hypotheses for these alterations is the current culture conditions of the IVP. In an attempt to better mimic the physiological milieu, embryos were produced with female reproductive fluids (RF) as supplements to culture medium, and another group of embryos were supplemented with bovine serum albumin (BSA) as in vitro control. Embryos were cryopreserved and transferred while, in parallel, an in vivo control (artificial insemination, AI) with the same bull used for IVP was included. An overview on pregnancy rates, recipients’ hormonal levels, parturition, and resulting calves were recorded. Results show much similarity between groups in terms of pregnancy rates, gestation length and calves’ weight. Nonetheless, several differences on hormonal levels were noted between recipients carrying AI embryos especially when compared to BSA. Some calving issues and neonatal mortality were observed in both IVP groups. In conclusion, most of the parameters studied were similar between both types of IVP derived embryos and the in vivo-derived embryos, suggesting that the IVP technology used was efficient enough for the safe production of calves.
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López-Gatius F, Garcia-Ispierto I. Treatment with an elevated dose of the GnRH analogue dephereline in the early luteal phase improves pregnancy rates in repeat-breeder dairy cows. Theriogenology 2020; 155:12-16. [PMID: 32570106 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This study sought to establish whether treatment with the GnRH analog dephereline in the early luteal phase could be useful to improve fertility in repeat-breeder cows (>3 inseminations). Dephereline was given 5-7 days after insemination, and effects of both a single and elevated (2.5 times) dephereline dose on pregnancy and subsequent embryo survival determined in repeat-breeder lactating dairy cows. The study population comprised 810 cows: 399 repeat-breeder cows and 411 non repeat breeders. To determine the effects of treatment on the pregnancy rate, three study groups were established: Control, no treatment (n = 269), DEPH, single dephereline dose (100 μg) (n = 270), or 2.5DEPH, 2.5 dephereline doses (250 μg) (n = 271). Recorded pregnancy rates in these groups were 28.6% (77/269), 31.9% (86/270) and 39.1% (106/271), respectively. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed a significant effect of the interaction treatment x repeat breeder on the pregnancy rate. This meant that the single dose and control treatments led to a pregnancy likelihood of repeat-breeder cows reduced by factors of 0.47 and 0.34, respectively, when compared to the 2.5 dose treatment as reference. Treatment had no effects on non repeat breeders. Based on odds ratios, treatment given either as a single or 2.5 dose increased the probability of an additional corpus luteum (more corpora lutea than embryos) in pregnant cows by factors of 5 or 5.4, respectively. Treatment had no effect on embryo survival. Our findings support the hypothesis that dephereline treatment in the early luteal phase after AI improves fertility in repeat-breeder cows. A dephereline dose 2.5 times higher than normal led to improved pregnancy rates, thus overcoming the impacts of repeat-breeder syndrome. Importantly, both the single and 2.5 dephereline doses increased the chances of pregnant cows having an additional corpus luteum, likely favoring embryo survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- F López-Gatius
- Agrotecnio Centre, University of Lleida, 25198, Lleida, Spain; Transfer in Bovine Reproduction SLu, 22300, Barbastro, Spain.
| | - I Garcia-Ispierto
- Transfer in Bovine Reproduction SLu, 22300, Barbastro, Spain; Department of Animal Science, University of Lleida, 25198, Lleida, Spain
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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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Gómez E, Carrocera S, Martín D, Pérez-Jánez JJ, Prendes J, Prendes JM, Vázquez A, Murillo A, Gimeno I, Muñoz M. Efficient one-step direct transfer to recipients of thawed bovine embryos cultured in vitro and frozen in chemically defined medium. Theriogenology 2020; 146:39-47. [PMID: 32036059 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.01.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 01/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Direct transfer (DT) of cryopreserved embryos to recipients facilitates on-farm application. We analyzed a new freezing/thawing (F/T) procedure for in vitro produced (IVP) embryos, integrating: 1) an ethylene-glycol based system; 2) a culture step without protein; and 3) a synthetic protein substitute (CRYO3) in cryopreservation medium. IVP embryos from abattoir ovaries were cultured in groups in BSA-containing synthetic oviduct fluid with or without 0.1% fetal calf serum (FCS) until Day-6. Morulae and early blastocysts were subsequently cultured without protein from Day-6 onwards. Day 7 and Day 8 expanded blastocysts (EXB) were subjected to F/T or vitrification/warming (V/W). Thawed and warmed EXB were cultured in vitro, and development rates, cell counts and dead cells were analyzed in surviving embryos. V/W improved survival over F/T (live and hatching rates at 2 h, 24 h and 48 h) (P < 0.0001), and FCS before Day 6 did not affect in vitro survival. After F/T, embryos had lower cell counts in the ICM, TE and total cells than after V/W. Day-7 embryos after F/T showed % apoptotic, % pycnotic and % total dead cells higher (p < 0.05) than their Day-8 counterparts, probably because F/T reduced the numbers of ICM cells within Day-8 embryos. Thereafter, Day-7 blastocysts were transferred to heifers in an experimental herd. There were no differences in birth rates with frozen (-FCS [n = 40]: 45%; +FCS [n = 14]: 28%), vitrified (-FCS [n = 47]: 53%; +FCS [n = 11]: 36%) and fresh (-FCS [n = 30]: 47%; +FCS [n = 17]: 53%) embryos. However, frozen embryos produced with FCS showed 5/9 miscarriages after Day-40. Calves born from frozen (n = 22), vitrified (n = 29) and fresh (n = 22) transfers did not differ in birth weight, gestation length and daily gain weight (P > 0.10). Subsequently, transfer of frozen embryos (n = 29) derived from oocytes collected from live, hormonally stimulated cows in experimental herd, led to pregnancy rates of 57% (heifers) and 40% (dry cows). with EXB on Day-62 Finally, embryos produced with BSA were transferred to cows in an on-field trial (frozen [n = 80]; fresh [n = 58]), with no differences in pregnancy rates (days 30-40). Pregnancy and birth rates could not be predicted from in vitro approaches. The new F/T system yields pregnancy and birth rates comparable to vitrified and fresh embryos without birth overweight. The absence of products of animal origin, defined chemical composition, and direct transfer entail sanitary, manufacturing and application advantages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique Gómez
- Centro de Biotecnología Animal-SERIDA, Camino de Rioseco 1225, Gijón, 33394, Spain.
| | - Susana Carrocera
- Centro de Biotecnología Animal-SERIDA, Camino de Rioseco 1225, Gijón, 33394, Spain
| | - David Martín
- Centro de Biotecnología Animal-SERIDA, Camino de Rioseco 1225, Gijón, 33394, Spain
| | - Juan José Pérez-Jánez
- Cooperativa de Agricultores y Usuarios de Gijón, Carretera Carbonera 2230, Polígono Industrial de Roces 5, Gijón, 33211, Spain
| | - Javier Prendes
- Cooperativa de Agricultores y Usuarios de Gijón, Carretera Carbonera 2230, Polígono Industrial de Roces 5, Gijón, 33211, Spain
| | - José Manuel Prendes
- Cooperativa de Agricultores y Usuarios de Gijón, Carretera Carbonera 2230, Polígono Industrial de Roces 5, Gijón, 33211, Spain
| | - Alejandro Vázquez
- Asturian Biotechnology, Galeno, 2248, Polígono Industrial de Roces 5, Gijón, 33211, Spain
| | - Antonio Murillo
- Centro de Biotecnología Animal-SERIDA, Camino de Rioseco 1225, Gijón, 33394, Spain
| | - Isabel Gimeno
- Centro de Biotecnología Animal-SERIDA, Camino de Rioseco 1225, Gijón, 33394, Spain
| | - Marta Muñoz
- Centro de Biotecnología Animal-SERIDA, Camino de Rioseco 1225, Gijón, 33394, Spain
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Bó GA, Cedeño A, Mapletoft RJ. Strategies to increment in vivo and in vitro embryo production and transfer in cattle. Anim Reprod 2019; 16:411-422. [PMID: 32435285 PMCID: PMC7234104 DOI: 10.21451/1984-3143-ar2019-0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Knowledge of follicular wave dynamics obtained through the use of real-time ultrasonography and the development of the means by which follicular wave dynamics can be controlled have provided practical approaches for the in vivo and in vitro production and transfer of embryos in cattle. The elective control of follicular wave emergence and ovulation has had a great impact on the application of on-farm embryo transfer, especially when large groups of donors need to be superstimulated at the same time. Although estradiol and progestins have been used for many years, practitioners in countries where estradiol cannot be used have turned to alternative treatments, such as mechanical follicle ablation or the administration of GnRH for the synchronization of follicle wave emergence. In vitro embryo production also benefits from the synchronization of follicle wave emergence prior to Cumulus Oocyte Complexes (COCs) recovery. As Bos indicus cattle have high antral follicle population, large numbers of oocytes can be obtained by ovum pick-up (OPU) without superstimulation. However, synchronization of follicular wave emergence and superstimulation is necessary to obtain high numbers of COCs by OPU and blastocysts following in vitro fertilization in Bos taurus donors. Finally, embryos can now be transferred in commercial beef or dairy herds using efficacious synchronization and re-synchronization protocols that are easily implemented by farm personnel. These technologies can also be used to resolve reproductive problems such as the reduced fertility observed during summer heat stress and/or in repeat-breeder cows in commercial dairy herds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel A. Bó
- Instituto de Reproducción Animal Córdoba (IRAC), Zona Rural General Paz, (5145) Córdoba, Argentina.
- Instituto de Ciencias Básicas, Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad Nacional de Villa María, Villa del Rosario, Córdoba, Argentina.
- Doctorado en Ciencias Mención Agroalimentos, Universidad Nacional de Villa Maria, Villa del Rosario, Córdoba, Argentina.
| | - Andrés Cedeño
- Instituto de Reproducción Animal Córdoba (IRAC), Zona Rural General Paz, (5145) Córdoba, Argentina.
- Doctorado en Ciencias Mención Agroalimentos, Universidad Nacional de Villa Maria, Villa del Rosario, Córdoba, Argentina.
- Laboratorio de Biotecnologías de la Reproducción Animal, Medicina Veterinaria, Escuela Superior Politécnica Agropecuaria de Manabí (ESPAM), Calceta, Manabí, Ecuador.
| | - Reuben J. Mapletoft
- Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.
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Funeshima N, Noguchi T, Onizawa Y, Yaginuma H, Miyamura M, Tsuchiya H, Iwata H, Kuwayama T, Hamano S, Shirasuna K. The transfer of parthenogenetic embryos following artificial insemination in cows can enhance pregnancy recognition via the secretion of interferon tau. J Reprod Dev 2019; 65:443-450. [PMID: 31378757 PMCID: PMC6815739 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2019-026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Repeat breeding is a reproductive disorder in cattle. Embryo transfer following artificial insemination (AI) improves pregnancy rate by replenishing interferon tau (IFNT), but it results in a notably higher rate of twin occurrence. This study hypothesized that parthenogenetic (PA) embryo transfer following AI (AI + PA) could improve the conception rate because that PA embryo become as a supplemental source of IFNT without twins. PA embryos showed higher IFNT mRNA expression than in vitro fertilization (IVF) embryos. An examination of the effect of the cultured conditioned media (CM) of PA or IVF embryos on Madin-Darby bovine kidney cells with stably introduced promoter-reporter constructs of interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15, marker of IFN response) showed higher stimulation levels of ISG15 promoter activity with PA than with IVF embryo. We investigated in vivo the effect of AI + PA on healthy Japanese Black cattle. Cattle transferred with PA embryo alone were non-fertile, but those that underwent AI + PA showed a pregnancy rate of 53.3%, the similar as that with AI alone (60%). In pregnant cattle in AI + PA group, adding the PA embryo upregulated the expression of ISGs and plasma progesterone concentration. No twin were generated in AI only and AI + PA groups. Using repeat breeding Holstein cows that did not become pregnant with 4-9 times of AI, transfer of PA embryo following AI resulted in a higher pregnancy rate than that of control (AI only). We suggest that AI + PA may be beneficial for improving maternal pregnancy recognition in repeat breeder cattle while avoiding twin generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natsumi Funeshima
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Noguchi
- University Farm, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Shizuoka 418-0109, Japan
| | - Yuri Onizawa
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
| | - Hikari Yaginuma
- Animal Bio-Technology Center, Livestock Improvement Association of Japan Inc., Tokyo 135-0041, Japan
| | - Motoharu Miyamura
- Animal Bio-Technology Center, Livestock Improvement Association of Japan Inc., Tokyo 135-0041, Japan
| | - Hideki Tsuchiya
- Animal Bio-Technology Center, Livestock Improvement Association of Japan Inc., Tokyo 135-0041, Japan
| | - Hisataka Iwata
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
| | - Takehito Kuwayama
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
| | - Seizo Hamano
- Animal Bio-Technology Center, Livestock Improvement Association of Japan Inc., Tokyo 135-0041, Japan.,Maebashi Institute of Animal Science, Livestock Improvement Association of Japan Inc., Gunma 371-0121, Japan
| | - Koumei Shirasuna
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
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Yaginuma H, Funeshima N, Tanikawa N, Miyamura M, Tsuchiya H, Noguchi T, Iwata H, Kuwayama T, Shirasuna K, Hamano S. Improvement of fertility in repeat breeder dairy cattle by embryo transfer following artificial insemination: possibility of interferon tau replenishment effect. J Reprod Dev 2019; 65:223-229. [PMID: 30745523 PMCID: PMC6584180 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2018-121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Repeat breeder cattle do not become pregnant until after three or more breeding attempts; this represents a critical reproductive disorder. Embryo transfer (ET) following artificial
insemination (AI) in repeat breeder cattle reportedly improves pregnancy rate, leading to speculation that interferon tau (IFNT) is associated with this phenomenon. However, the reason why
the conception rate improves remains unknown. We investigated the effect of ET following AI on repeat breeder cattle in field tests, and determined whether adding an embryo affects the
maternal immune cells detected by interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs), marker genes of IFN response. In total, 1122 repeat breeder cattle were implanted with in vitro
fertilization (IVF) embryos after previous AI. ET following AI resulted in pregnancy rates of 46.9% in repeat breeder dairy cattle. In basic in vivo tests, to investigate
the effect of adding embryos, ISGs mRNA expression levels were significantly higher in the AI + ET group than in the AI + sham group (transfer of only embryonic cryopreservation solution).
Then, we examined the effect of cultured conditioned media (CM) of IVF embryos on splenic immune cells and Madin-Darby bovine kidney (MDBK) cells with stably introduced ISG15
promoter-reporter constructs. These cells exhibited a specific increase in ISG15 mRNA expression and promoter activity when treated with the CM of IVF embryos, suggesting that IVF embryos
have the potential to produce and release IFNT. In conclusion, ET following AI is beneficial for improving conception in repeat breeder cattle. Added embryos may produce and secrete IFNT,
resulting in the increased expression of ISGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hikari Yaginuma
- Animal Bio-Technology Center, Livestock Improvement Association of Japan Inc., Tokyo 135-0041, Japan
| | - Natsumi Funeshima
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
| | - Nao Tanikawa
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
| | - Motoharu Miyamura
- Animal Bio-Technology Center, Livestock Improvement Association of Japan Inc., Tokyo 135-0041, Japan
| | - Hideki Tsuchiya
- Animal Bio-Technology Center, Livestock Improvement Association of Japan Inc., Tokyo 135-0041, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Noguchi
- University Farm, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Shizuoka 418-0109, Japan
| | - Hisataka Iwata
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
| | - Takehito Kuwayama
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
| | - Koumei Shirasuna
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
| | - Seizo Hamano
- Animal Bio-Technology Center, Livestock Improvement Association of Japan Inc., Tokyo 135-0041, Japan.,Maebashi Institute of Animal Science, Livestock Improvement Association of Japan Inc., Gunma 371-0121, Japan
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Baruselli PS, de Souza AH, de Sá MF, Marques MO, Sales JNLDS. Genetic market in cattle (Bull, AI, FTAI, MOET and IVP): financial payback based on reproductive efficiency in beef and dairy herds in Brazil. Anim Reprod 2018; 15:247-255. [PMID: 34178148 PMCID: PMC8202463 DOI: 10.21451/1984-3143-ar2018-0091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A number of reproductive biotechnologies are currently available to multiply offspring
from high genetic merit animals to enhance reproductive efficiency and profitability both
in dairy and beef herds. Some of these technologies such as fixed time artificial insemination
(FTAI), when correctly implemented, generally allow greater reproductive performance
than natural breeding. Besides the use of frozen-thawed semen during artificial insemination,
cattle recipients can also be synchronized to receive embryos (produced in vivo
or in vitro) at set dates with fertility results that usually
outperforms natural breeding as well as artificial insemination (AI), particularly during
warm seasons and in repeat breeders cows. Altogether, the use of hormonal programs to synchronize
ovulation time simplify field routine, can easily fix physiological limitations related
to postpartum anestrus (beef cows), poor estrus detection efficiency due to less evident
estrus signs (dairy cows), making AI and ET viable to commercial herds both in terms of results
and economical returns.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexandre Henryli de Souza
- Department of Animal Reproduction, FMVZ-USP, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Ceva Animal Health, Paulínia-SP, Brazil
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Arishima T, Sasaki S, Isobe T, Ikebata Y, Shimbara S, Ikeda S, Kawashima K, Suzuki Y, Watanabe M, Sugano S, Mizoshita K, Sugimoto Y. Maternal variant in the upstream of FOXP3 gene on the X chromosome is associated with recurrent infertility in Japanese Black cattle. BMC Genet 2017; 18:103. [PMID: 29212449 PMCID: PMC5719641 DOI: 10.1186/s12863-017-0573-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Repeat breeding, which is defined as cattle failure to conceive after three or more inseminations in the absence of clinical abnormalities, is a substantial problem in cattle breeding. To identify maternal genetic variants of repeat breeding in Japanese Black cattle, we selected 29 repeat-breeding heifers that failed to conceive following embryo transfer (ET) and conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) using the traits. Results We found that a single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP; g.92,377,635A > G) in the upstream region of the FOXP3 gene on the X chromosome was highly associated with repeat breeding and failure to conceive following ET (P = 1.51 × 10−14). FOXP3 is a master gene for differentiation of regulatory T (Treg) cells that function in pregnancy maintenance. Reporter assay results revealed that the activity of the FOXP3 promoter was lower in reporter constructs with the risk-allele than in those with the non-risk-allele by approximately 0.68 fold. These findings suggest that the variant in the upstream region of FOXP3 with the risk-allele decreased FOXP3 transcription, which in turn, could reduce the number of maternal Treg cells and lead to infertility. The frequency of the risk-allele in repeat-breeding heifers is more than that in cows, suggesting that the risk-allele could be associated with infertility in repeat-breeding heifers. Conclusions This GWAS identified a maternal variant in the upstream region of FOXP3 that was associated with infertility in repeat-breeding Japanese Black cattle that failed to conceive using ET. The variant affected the level of FOXP3 mRNA expression. Thus, the results suggest that the risk-allele could serve as a useful marker to reduce and eliminate animals with inferior fertility in Japanese Black cattle. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12863-017-0573-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taichi Arishima
- Kagoshima prefectural Cattle Breeding Development Institute, Osumi, So, Kagoshima, 899-8212, Japan
| | - Shinji Sasaki
- National Livestock Breeding Center, Odakura, Nishigo, Fukushima, 961-8511, Japan. .,Shirakawa Institute of Animal Genetics, Japan Livestock Technology Association, Odakura, Nishigo, Fukushima, 961-8061, Japan.
| | - Tomohiro Isobe
- Kagoshima prefectural Cattle Breeding Development Institute, Osumi, So, Kagoshima, 899-8212, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Ikebata
- Kagoshima prefectural Cattle Breeding Development Institute, Osumi, So, Kagoshima, 899-8212, Japan
| | - Shinichi Shimbara
- Kagoshima prefectural Cattle Breeding Development Institute, Osumi, So, Kagoshima, 899-8212, Japan
| | - Shogo Ikeda
- Kagoshima prefectural Cattle Breeding Development Institute, Osumi, So, Kagoshima, 899-8212, Japan
| | - Keisuke Kawashima
- Kagoshima prefectural Cattle Breeding Development Institute, Osumi, So, Kagoshima, 899-8212, Japan
| | - Yutaka Suzuki
- Department of Medical Genome Sciences, and Department of Computational Biology, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Chiba, 277-8562, Japan
| | - Manabu Watanabe
- Department of Medical Genome Sciences, and Department of Computational Biology, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Chiba, 277-8562, Japan
| | - Sumio Sugano
- Department of Medical Genome Sciences, and Department of Computational Biology, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Chiba, 277-8562, Japan
| | - Kazunori Mizoshita
- Kagoshima prefectural Cattle Breeding Development Institute, Osumi, So, Kagoshima, 899-8212, Japan
| | - Yoshikazu Sugimoto
- Shirakawa Institute of Animal Genetics, Japan Livestock Technology Association, Odakura, Nishigo, Fukushima, 961-8061, Japan
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Hayashi KG, Hosoe M, Kizaki K, Fujii S, Kanahara H, Takahashi T, Sakumoto R. Differential gene expression profiling of endometrium during the mid-luteal phase of the estrous cycle between a repeat breeder (RB) and non-RB cows. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2017; 15:20. [PMID: 28335821 PMCID: PMC5364712 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-017-0237-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2016] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Repeat breeding directly affects reproductive efficiency in cattle due to an increase in services per conception and calving interval. This study aimed to investigate whether changes in endometrial gene expression profile are involved in repeat breeding in cows. Differential gene expression profiles of the endometrium were investigated during the mid-luteal phase of the estrous cycle between repeat breeder (RB) and non-RB cows using microarray analysis. METHODS The caruncular (CAR) and intercaruncular (ICAR) endometrium of both ipsilateral and contralateral uterine horns to the corpus luteum were collected from RB (inseminated at least three times but not pregnant) and non-RB cows on Day 15 of the estrous cycle (4 cows/group). Global gene expression profiles of these endometrial samples were analyzed with a 15 K custom-made oligo-microarray for cattle. Immunohistochemistry was performed to investigate the cellular localization of proteins of three identified transcripts in the endometrium. RESULTS Microarray analysis revealed that 405 and 397 genes were differentially expressed in the CAR and ICAR of the ipsilateral uterine horn of RB, respectively when compared with non-RB cows. In the contralateral uterine horn, 443 and 257 differentially expressed genes were identified in the CAR and ICAR of RB, respectively when compared with non-RB cows. Gene ontology analysis revealed that genes involved in development and morphogenesis were mainly up-regulated in the CAR of RB cows. In the ICAR of both the ipsilateral and contralateral uterine horns, genes related to the metabolic process were predominantly enriched in the RB cows when compared with non-RB cows. In the analysis of the whole uterus (combining the data above four endometrial compartments), RB cows showed up-regulation of 37 genes including PRSS2, GSTA3 and PIPOX and down-regulation of 39 genes including CHGA, KRT35 and THBS4 when compared with non-RB cows. Immunohistochemistry revealed that CHGA, GSTA3 and PRSS2 proteins were localized in luminal and glandular epithelial cells and stroma of the endometrium. CONCLUSION The present study showed that endometrial gene expression profiles are different between RB and non-RB cows. The identified candidate endometrial genes and functions in each endometrial compartment may contribute to bovine reproductive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken-Go Hayashi
- 0000 0000 9191 6962grid.419600.aDivision of Animal Breeding and Reproduction Research, Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, Tsukuba, 305-0901 Japan
| | - Misa Hosoe
- 0000 0001 2222 0432grid.416835.dDivision of Animal Sciences, Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, Tsukuba, 305-8602 Japan
| | - Keiichiro Kizaki
- 0000 0001 0018 0409grid.411792.8Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Iwate University, Morioka, 020-8550 Japan
| | - Shiori Fujii
- 0000 0000 9191 6962grid.419600.aDivision of Animal Breeding and Reproduction Research, Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, Tsukuba, 305-0901 Japan
| | - Hiroko Kanahara
- 0000 0000 9191 6962grid.419600.aDivision of Animal Breeding and Reproduction Research, Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, Tsukuba, 305-0901 Japan
| | - Toru Takahashi
- 0000 0001 0018 0409grid.411792.8Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Iwate University, Morioka, 020-8550 Japan
| | - Ryosuke Sakumoto
- 0000 0000 9191 6962grid.419600.aDivision of Animal Breeding and Reproduction Research, Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, Tsukuba, 305-0901 Japan
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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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Pandey NKJ, Gupta HP, Prasad S, Sheetal SK. Plasma progesterone profile and conception rate following exogenous supplementation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, human chorionic gonadotropin, and progesterone releasing intra-vaginal device in repeat-breeder crossbred cows. Vet World 2016; 9:559-62. [PMID: 27397976 PMCID: PMC4937044 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2016.559-562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM This study was designed to evaluate the effect of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and progesterone impregnated intra-vaginal device on progesterone profile and conception rate in repeat-breeding crossbred cows. MATERIALS AND METHODS Repeat-breeding crossbred cows aged 3-8 years (n=32), lactating and negative to white side test were randomly divided into four groups: Group 1 (Control, n=8), Group 2 (GnRH at 10 µg i.m, n=8), Group 3 (hCG at 1500 IU i.m., n=8), and Group 4 (progesterone impregnated intra-vaginal device at 958 mg, n=8). All the treatme nts were given on 5(th) daypostbreeding and in Group 4 intra-vaginally implanted device was withdrawn on 9(th) day (i.e., implant inserted for total 4 days) of the estrous cycle. Blood samples were collected on day 0, 5, 10, 15, and day 20 of estrous cycle, and plasma was separated for progesterone estimation. RESULTS Accessory corpus luteum was not formed in crossbred cows of Group4 and control group. However, total 6 and 8 accessory corpora lutea were found in Group 2 and Group 3, respectively. In pregnant cows, the plasma progesterone concentration increased continuously from day 0 to day 20. In non-pregnant cows, it increased from day 0 to day 15 and then declined. The conception rate on day 60 in Group 1, Group 2, Group 3, and Group 4 was 37.5%, 50%, 75%, and 37.5%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Treating repeat-breeder cows with hCG is effective in increasing conception rate by developing accessory corpora lutea and higher progesterone level.
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Affiliation(s)
- N K J Pandey
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar - 263145, Uttarakhand, India
| | - H P Gupta
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar - 263145, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Shiv Prasad
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar - 263145, Uttarakhand, India
| | - S K Sheetal
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar - 263145, Uttarakhand, India
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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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Ferré LB, Bogliotti Y, Chitwood JL, Fresno C, Ortega HH, Kjelland ME, Ross PJ. Comparison of different fertilisation media for an in vitro maturation?fertilisation?culture system using flow-cytometrically sorted X chromosome-bearing spermatozoa for bovine embryo production. Reprod Fertil Dev 2015; 28:RD15019. [PMID: 25966894 DOI: 10.1071/rd15019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2014] [Accepted: 03/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
High demand exists among commercial cattle producers for in vitro-derived bovine embryos fertilised with female sex-sorted spermatozoa from high-value breeding stock. The aim of this study was to evaluate three fertilisation media, namely M199, synthetic oviductal fluid (SOF) and Tyrode's albumin-lactate-pyruvate (TALP), on IVF performance using female sex-sorted spermatozoa. In all, 1143, 1220 and 1041 cumulus-oocyte complexes were fertilised in M199, SOF and TALP, respectively. There were significant differences among fertilisation media (P < 0.05) in cleavage rate (M199 = 57%, SOF = 71% and TALP = 72%), blastocyst formation (M199 = 9%, SOF = 20% and TALP = 19%), proportion of Grade 1 blastocysts (M199 = 15%, SOF = 52% and TALP = 51%), proportion of Grade 3 blastocysts (M199 = 58%, SOF = 21% and TALP = 20%) and hatching rates (M199 = 29%, SOF = 60% and TALP = 65%). The inner cell mass (ICM) and trophectoderm (TE) cells of Day 7 blastocysts were also affected by the fertilisation medium. Embryos derived from SOF and TALP fertilisation media had higher numbers of ICM, TE and total cells than those fertilised in M199. In conclusion, fertilisation media affected cleavage rate, as well as subsequent embryo development, quality and hatching ability. SOF and TALP fertilisation media produced significantly more embryos of higher quality than M199.
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International perspectives on the impacts of reproductive technologies on food production in Asia. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2014; 752:213-28. [PMID: 24170362 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-8887-3_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
The greatest numbers of domestic animals are raised in Asia. The Asian animal industry is characterized by the involvement of a high percentage of the population, mostly smallholders, of which 95 % rear domestic animals. In exploring the best ways to formulate sustainable society, it is essential to make the most of livestock products by applying appropriate reproductive technologies. There is no doubt that reproductive technologies such as AI and ET have made a great contribution to increase the number of excellent animals. Although more advanced cutting edge reproductive technologies have become available and some of them have indeed a potential of revolutionary changes in livestock industry, the most important problem for increasing productivity concerns the maintenance of optimum nutrition and prevention of heat stress to support reproductive performance and increased supply of animal proteins. International societies should be involved in binding together developed and newly developing countries in the construction of a novel model for future livestock rearing management that suits diverse environmental circumstances.
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Sanches BV, Marinho LSR, Filho BDO, Pontes JHF, Basso AC, Meirinhos MLG, Silva-Santos KC, Ferreira CR, Seneda MM. Cryosurvival and pregnancy rates after exposure of IVF-derived Bos indicus embryos to forskolin before vitrification. Theriogenology 2013; 80:372-7. [PMID: 23746692 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2013.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2012] [Revised: 03/19/2013] [Accepted: 04/10/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
In vitro-produced (IVP) bovine embryos are more sensitive to cryopreservation than their in vivo counterparts due to their higher lipid concentrations, whereas Bos indicus IVP embryos are even more sensitive than Bos taurus IVP embryos. To examine the effects of a lipolytic agent, before vitrification of Bos indicus IVP embryos, on embryo survival, viability, and pregnancy rates, two experiments were conducted. In experiment 1, Bos indicus (Nelore) embryos were produced from abattoir-derived ovaries and allocated into two groups. In the treatment group, 10 μM of forskolin was added to the in vitro culture medium on Day 5 and incubated for 48 hours. On Day 7 of culture, IVP-expanded blastocysts from both the control (n = 101) and treatment (n = 112) groups were vitrified with ethylene glycol and DMSO via the Cryotop procedure. Although there was no significant difference between the rates of blastocoel reexpansion and hatching of the embryos exposed to forskolin (87.5% and 70.5%, respectively) compared with the control embryos (79.2% and 63.3%, respectively), the numerically superior rates of the embryos exposed to forskolin led to another experiment. In experiment 2, blastocysts produced from the ovum pick up were exposed or not exposed to the lipolytic agent and vitrified as in experiment 1. Embryos treated with forskolin had higher pregnancy rates than the control group (48.8% vs. 18.5%). In view of these results, 1908 Bos indicus embryos were produced from ovum pick up, exposed to the lipolytic agent, and blastocysts were transferred to recipients, and the pregnancy rates of the embryos of various breeds were compared. The mean pregnancy rate obtained was 43.2%. All data were analyzed by chi-square or by binary logistic regression (P ≤ 0.05). In conclusion, treatment with forskolin before vitrification improved cryotolerance of Bos indicus IVP embryos, resulting in good post-transfer pregnancy rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- B V Sanches
- In Vitro Brasil Ltda, Mogi Mirim, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Akyuz B, Sariozkan S, Bayram D. Factor XI mutation in normally fertile and repeat breeding Holstein cows in the Middle Anatolian region of Turkey: a financial approach. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2012. [DOI: 10.1071/an12072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence of factor XI deficiency (FXID) carriers and potential financial losses depending on ‘extended calving interval’ and ‘extra service’ in normally fertile and repeat breeder cows in Turkey. For this purpose, a total of 161 Holstein cows were genotyped for the FXI gene mutation originating from various herds located in the Middle Anatolian region of Turkey. In the study, animals were divided into two groups – normally fertile (n = 118) and repeat breeding (n = 43) cows. In each group, one FXID carrier animal was identified and the prevalence of the FXID carrier was found to be 0.85 and 2.33% in normally fertile and repeat breeder cows, respectively. In a financial analysis, it was determined that extended calving interval in a normally fertile cow caused $246 losses and $546 losses in a repeat breeder cow. Additionally, financial losses due to extra service per conception were calculated as $12 and $36 per cow in normally fertile and repeat breeder cows, respectively. In normally fertile and repeat breeder cows, the sum of losses due to extended calving interval and extra service was calculated as $258 (246 + 12) and $582 (546 + 36). This study found that a repeat breeder cow causes an extra $324 ($582 – $258) financial loss compared with a normally fertile cow. Consequently, unlike other genetic disorders like BLAD and DUMPS, which do not decrease the performance of carrier animals, the mutant FXI allele could lead to repeat breeder syndrome in FXID carrier cows and cause important financial losses in dairy farms.
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Salasel B, Mokhtari A, Taktaz T. Prevalence, risk factors for and impact of subclinical endometritis in repeat breeder dairy cows. Theriogenology 2010; 74:1271-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.05.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2010] [Revised: 05/12/2010] [Accepted: 05/27/2010] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Yusuf M, Nakao T, Long ST, Gautam G. Analysis of some factors affecting fertility levels in a high-producing dairy herd in south-western Japan. Anim Sci J 2010; 81:467-74. [PMID: 20662816 DOI: 10.1111/j.1740-0929.2010.00764.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The present study aimed to know whether all cows have been showing declining fertility or only a proportion of cows are attributed to the declining fertility, and to describe factors affecting the level of fertility. A total of 131 cows calved from February 2005 to December 2007 in a dairy herd were examined. Fourteen cows were excluded from the study because of early culling. Of the remaining 117 cows, 47 (40%) conceived within 115 days postpartum after 1-3 artificial insemination (AI) (normal fertility cows), 42 (36%) conceived after 115 days postpartum following 1-3 AI or were culled after 1-2 (sub-fertility cows/culled), and 28 (24%) were inseminated more than three times without detectable genital tract abnormalities (repeat breeders). Calving to conception interval in the normal fertility group was 72 + 3 days, while in the sub-fertility/culled and repeat breeding groups the intervals were 170 + 8 and 259 + 16 days, respectively. Endometritis was the risk factor for sub-fertility/culled (odds ratio (OR) = 3.76). Prolonged luteal phase (OR = 4.08), delayed first ovulation (OR = 6.02), and delayed corpus luteum formation after AI (OR = 8.55) were the risk factors for repeat breeding. In conclusion, 60% cows showed reduced fertility in a herd, while the other 40% had normal fertility. Uterine infection and some ovarian disorders contributed to reduced fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Yusuf
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
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Canu S, Boland M, Lloyd GM, Newman M, Christie MF, May PJ, Christley RM, Smith RF, Dobson H. Predisposition to repeat breeding in UK cattle and success of artificial insemination alone or in combination with embryo transfer. Vet Rec 2010; 167:44-51. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.c3544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. Canu
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science; University of Liverpool, Leahurst, Neston; Wirral CH64 7TE
| | - M. Boland
- Willows Veterinary Group; 267 Chester Road Hartford Cheshire CW8 1LP
| | - G. M. Lloyd
- Camlas Veterinary Practice; Waterloo Place, Salop Road Welshpool Powys SY21 7HE
| | - M. Newman
- Lambert, Leonard and May, Old Woodhouses, Broughall; Whitchurch Shropshire SY13 4AQ
| | - M. F. Christie
- Lambert, Leonard and May, Old Woodhouses, Broughall; Whitchurch Shropshire SY13 4AQ
| | - P. J. May
- Drove Veterinary Hospital; 252 Croft Road Swindon Wiltshire SN1 4RW
| | - R. M. Christley
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science; University of Liverpool, Leahurst, Neston; Wirral CH64 7TE
| | - R. F. Smith
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science; University of Liverpool, Leahurst, Neston; Wirral CH64 7TE
| | - H. Dobson
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science; University of Liverpool, Leahurst, Neston; Wirral CH64 7TE
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Yusuf M, Nakao T, Ranasinghe RBK, Gautam G, Long ST, Yoshida C, Koike K, Hayashi A. Reproductive performance of repeat breeders in dairy herds. Theriogenology 2010; 73:1220-9. [PMID: 20226515 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2009] [Revised: 12/28/2009] [Accepted: 01/08/2010] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The objectives were to characterize repeat breeding in dairy cows, including reproductive performance and risk factors. Data from 613 Holstein Friesian cows in nine dairy herds across Japan were enrolled. A repeat breeder was defined as a cow that did not become pregnant after three inseminations, despite no clinically detectable reproductive disorders. In contrast, cows that became pregnant within three inseminations were considered to have normal fertility. Of the 613 cows, 87.3% eventually became pregnant after repeated AI (maximum calving to conception interval was 435 d). Mean (+/-SEM) first AI conception rate, days in milk at first AI, calving to conception interval and service per conception were 38.3%, 82+/-2 d, 125+/-3 d, and 2.0+/-0.1 times, respectively. Normal fertility cows (n=479) required only 114+/-3 d to conceive and 1.7+/-0.1 inseminations per pregnancy, whereas repeat breeders (n=86) required significantly more days to conceive (211+/-10) and more inseminations per pregnancy (4.7+/-0.2). Based on survival analysis, it took 94 d after calving for 50% of normal fertility cows to become pregnant, compared to 155 d for repeat breeders. For repeat breeders, 31.4, 50.0, and 58.1% became pregnant within 210, 300, and 435 d after calving, respectively. The risk factors for repeat breeding were parity (relative risk [RR]=0.809; P=0.058), resumption of postpartum ovarian cycles (RR=1.928; P=0.009), and days in milk at first AI (RR=0.991; P=0.039). In conclusion, repeat breeder dairy cows had very poor reproductive performance. Lower parity, abnormal resumption of postpartum ovarian cycles, and shorter days in milk at first AI were risk factors for repeat breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Yusuf
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Yamaguchi University, Yoshida 1677-1, Yamaguchi 753-8515, Japan
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Administration of peripheral blood mononuclear cells into the uterine horn to improve pregnancy rate following bovine embryo transfer. Anim Reprod Sci 2010; 117:18-23. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2009.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2009] [Revised: 04/15/2009] [Accepted: 04/22/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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