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Kopainsky B, Kapmeier F. Dynamic implications of the biological link between bovine milk and meat production for operationalizing the planetary health diet. NATURE FOOD 2023; 4:1070-1074. [PMID: 38049614 DOI: 10.1038/s43016-023-00883-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
The EAT-Lancet planetary health diet (PHD) provides guidelines on a global scale and calls for red meat consumption to be halved. Operational PHD guidelines at country level have yet to be determined. Here we argue that the biological link between milk and bovine-meat production must be considered when operationalizing the globally calculated PHD to national contexts. Using a stylized computer simulation model rooted in a food system approach, we explore the impact of dietary scenarios on milk and bovine-meat production and show that ignoring this biological link can lead to substantial imbalances between national dietary guidelines and production outcomes and potentially lead to food waste. Furthermore, we assess current national dietary guidelines in Europe and find that most disregard this biological link and are incompatible with the PHD, with implications for policymakers and consumers to consider when adapting the PHD in national contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgit Kopainsky
- System Dynamics Group, Department of Geography, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
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Zhao YH, Wang JJ, Zhang PP, Hao HS, Pang YW, Wang HY, Du WH, Zhao SJ, Ruan WM, Zou HY, Hao T, Zhu HB, Zhao XM. Oocyte IVM or vitrification significantly impairs DNA methylation patterns in blastocysts as analysed by single-cell whole-genome methylation sequencing. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 32:676-689. [PMID: 32317092 DOI: 10.1071/rd19234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
To explore the mechanisms leading to the poor quality of IVF blastocysts, the single-cell whole-genome methylation sequencing technique was used in this study to analyse the methylation patterns of bovine blastocysts derived from invivo, fresh (IVF) or vitrified (V_IVF) oocytes. Genome methylation levels of blastocysts in the IVF and V_IVF groups were significantly lower than those of the invivo group (P<0.05). In all, 1149 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) were identified between the IVF and invivo groups, 1578 DMRs were identified between the V_IVF and invivo groups and 151 DMRs were identified between the V_IVF and IVF groups. For imprinted genes, methylation levels of insulin-like growth factor 2 receptor (IGF2R) and protein phosphatase 1 regulatory subunit 9A (PPP1R9A) were lower in the IVF and V_IVF groups than in the invivo group, and the methylation level of paternally expressed 3 (PEG3) was lower in the V_IVF group than in the IVF and invivo groups. Genes with DMRs between the IVF and invivo and the V_IVF and IVF groups were primarily enriched in oocyte maturation pathways, whereas DMRs between the V_IVF and invivo groups were enriched in fertilisation and vitrification-vulnerable pathways. The results of this study indicate that differences in the methylation of critical DMRs may contribute to the differences in quality between invitro- and invivo-derived embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Han Zhao
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory and the Centre of Domestic Animal Reproduction and Breeding, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Jing-Jing Wang
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory and the Centre of Domestic Animal Reproduction and Breeding, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Pei-Pei Zhang
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory and the Centre of Domestic Animal Reproduction and Breeding, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Hai-Sheng Hao
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory and the Centre of Domestic Animal Reproduction and Breeding, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Yun-Wei Pang
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory and the Centre of Domestic Animal Reproduction and Breeding, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Hao-Yu Wang
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory and the Centre of Domestic Animal Reproduction and Breeding, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Wei-Hua Du
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory and the Centre of Domestic Animal Reproduction and Breeding, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Shan-Jiang Zhao
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory and the Centre of Domestic Animal Reproduction and Breeding, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Wei-Min Ruan
- International Joint Center for Biomedical Innovation, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Ming Lun Street, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, PR China
| | - Hui-Ying Zou
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory and the Centre of Domestic Animal Reproduction and Breeding, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Tong Hao
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory and the Centre of Domestic Animal Reproduction and Breeding, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Hua-Bin Zhu
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory and the Centre of Domestic Animal Reproduction and Breeding, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Xue-Ming Zhao
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory and the Centre of Domestic Animal Reproduction and Breeding, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China; and Corresponding author.
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Magata F, Urakawa M, Matsuda F, Oono Y. Developmental kinetics and viability of bovine embryos produced in vitro with sex-sorted semen. Theriogenology 2020; 161:243-251. [PMID: 33340757 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The present study aimed to elucidate the developmental kinetics, growth potential, and viability of bovine embryos produced in vitro with sexed semen. Bovine oocytes were fertilized in vitro using unsorted and X-sorted semen from the same Holstein bulls, and the kinetics of in vitro development were continuously monitored for 10 d through time-lapse cinematography. The blastocyst formation rate was lower in the X-sorted group than in the unsorted group (P < 0.01), whereas the normal fertilization rate did not differ between groups. Morphokinetic evaluation revealed that the incidence of blastomere fusion during the first cleavage division, termed reverse cleavage, was higher in the X-sorted group (P < 0.01). Furthermore, embryos produced with X-sorted semen showed slower growth throughout the developmental period than embryos produced with unsorted semen (P < 0.01). The cell number of the trophectoderm and inner cell mass of blastocysts was reduced in the X-sorted group (P < 0.01). In embryos that developed to the blastocyst stage, the hatchability (P < 0.05), chromosomal normality (P < 0.01), and survivability after the conventional frozen-thawing process (P < 0.05) were reduced in the X-sorted group compared to that in the unsorted group, indicating a compromised viability of embryos derived from X-sorted semen. Taken together, the first cleavage dysmorphism, delayed embryo growth, and impaired viability of embryos developed to the blastocyst stage may explain the mechanism of reduced fertility in embryos derived from sexed semen. The kinetic evaluation of early embryo development and de-selection of embryos presenting the aberrant first cleavage would be valid for clinical application to produce sexed embryos with high implantation potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Magata
- Research and Development Group, Zen-noh Embryo Transfer Center, Kamishihoro, Hokkaido, Japan; Department of Veterinary Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - M Urakawa
- Research and Development Group, Zen-noh Embryo Transfer Center, Kamishihoro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - F Matsuda
- Department of Veterinary Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Y Oono
- Research and Development Group, Zen-noh Embryo Transfer Center, Kamishihoro, Hokkaido, Japan
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Mikkola M, Hasler JF, Taponen J. Factors affecting embryo production in superovulated Bos taurus cattle. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 32:104-124. [PMID: 32188562 DOI: 10.1071/rd19279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite a long history of bovine superovulation research, significant commercial applications did not start until the early 1970s. For some 20 years thereafter, superovulation represented the primary tool for the production of cattle embryos. In the early 1990s, commercial invitro production (IVP) was initiated in cattle. Although ovum pick-up and IVP are now commercially practiced on a wide scale, superovulation and embryo recovery by flushing remain a widespread and very effective approach to the production of cattle embryos. This review covers both the history and the effects of multiple factors on superovulation in Bos taurus cattle. There are three general protocols for suitable pre-FSH programming of donors so that gonadotrophin-responsive follicles are available. Superovulation protocols vary widely based on the FSH source, the diluent used, the number and timing of FSH injections and the timing and utilisation of various prostaglandins, controlled internal progesterone releasing devices, gonadotrophin-releasing hormone, and other means of controlling follicular development and ovulation. The number of oocytes that can be stimulated to grow and ovulate within any given donor can be estimated by either ultrasound-guided sonography or by measuring concentrations of anti-Müllerian hormone in the blood. Animal-related factors that can influence the efficacy of superovulation include cattle breed, age, parity, genetics, lactational status and reproductive history. In addition, nutrition, stress, season, climate, weather and several semen factors are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Mikkola
- Geno SA, Store Ree AI Station, Ekebergveien 54, 2335 Stange, Norway; and University of Helsinki, Department of Production Animal Medicine, FIN-04920 Saarentaus, Finland; and Corresponding author.
| | - J F Hasler
- Vetoquinol USA, 4250N Sylvania Avenue, Fort Worth, TX 76137, USA
| | - J Taponen
- University of Helsinki, Department of Production Animal Medicine, FIN-04920 Saarentaus, Finland
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Bovine Sperm Sexing Alters Sperm Morphokinetics and Subsequent Early Embryonic Development. Sci Rep 2020; 10:6255. [PMID: 32277124 PMCID: PMC7148378 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-63077-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
In artificial insemination the use of sex-sorted bovine sperm results in reduced conception, the causes of which are only partly understood. Therefore, we set out to investigate the effects of sexing on bovine sperm function and early embryonic development. Computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA) of sperm of the same bulls (n = 5), before and after sexing, demonstrated significantly reduced fast (A) and slow (B) progressively motile sperm (p < 0.05) after sexing. Sexed-sperm also revealed significantly less hyperactivated sperm (p < 0.05). As shown by time-lapse videomicroscopy of in vitro produced embryos (n = 360), embryos derived from sexed-sperm displayed significantly increased incidences of arrest at the 4-cell stage (p < 0.05). The relative risk for shrinkage/fusion of blastomeres with subsequent lysis was 1.71 times higher in the embryos derived from sexed-sperm as compared to conventional embryos (p < 0.05) resulting in significantly reduced blastocyst rates (p < 0.001). The relative risk for cleavage was 2.36 times lower in the embryos derived from sex-sorted sperm (p < 0.001). Additionally, sexed-sperm-derived embryos showed reduced survival times (hazard ratio HR = 1.54, p < 0.001) which were bull dependent (p < 0.001). However, the percentage of apoptotic cells was similar to conventional embryos. Furthermore, embryos derived from sexed-sperm were found to reach developmental stages at similar timings as conventional embryos. Our results suggest that reduced conception rates after sexing are due to altered sperm morphokinetics, decreasing the chance of sperm to reach and fertilise the oocyte, and aberrant early embryonic development.
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Obuchi T, Osada M, Ozawa T, Nakagawa H, Hayashi M, Akiyama K, Sakagami N, Miura R, Geshi M, Ushijima H. Comparative evaluation of the cost and efficiency of four types of sexing methods for the production of dairy female calves. J Reprod Dev 2019; 65:345-352. [PMID: 31178552 PMCID: PMC6708860 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2019-028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was conducted to evaluate and compare the economic benefits of different embryo sexing methods, based on the cost per female dairy calf produced. Female calves were produced from
four kinds of female embryos: (1) those collected from superstimulated donors at 7–8 days after artificial insemination (AI) with X-sorted semen; (2) those sex-determined by loop-mediated
isothermal amplification assay of a biopsy sample of embryos collected from superstimulated donors after AI with conventional unsorted semen; (3) those obtained by
invitro embryo production (IVEP), using X-sorted semen and in vitro-matured oocytes collected from donors by ovum pick-up (OPU); and (4)
those obtained by IVEP, using X-sorted semen and oocytes collected by OPU after dominant follicle ablation and follicle growth stimulation of the donors. The respective productivities of
female calves per technical service and the total production cost per female calf of each sexing method were compared. The production cost per female calf (66,537 JPY), as calculated from
the number of female calves per service (1.30), pregnancy rate of transfer (42.9%), rate of female calves obtained (92.9%), and total cost of the method (56,643 JPY plus embryo transfer
fee), was less for IVEP with X-sorted semen and follicular growth-stimulated (FGS) oocytes than for the other groups (P < 0.05). The results demonstrate that embryo production with
X-sorted semen and FGS oocytes provides a more efficient method for producing female calves than the other embryo sexing methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Obuchi
- Department of Applied Life Science, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo 180-8602, Japan.,Present: Division of Animal Reproduction, Maebashi Institute of Animal Science, Livestock Improvement Association of Japan (LIAJ), Gunma 371-0121, Japan
| | - Masahiro Osada
- Department of Applied Life Science, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo 180-8602, Japan
| | - Takeyuki Ozawa
- Department of Applied Life Science, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo 180-8602, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nakagawa
- Niigata Agricultural Research Institute, Niigata 955-0143, Japan
| | - Michiko Hayashi
- Ishikawa Livestock Research Center, Ishikawa 929-1325, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Akiyama
- Kanagawa Prefectural Livestock Industry Technology Center, Kanagawa 243-0417, Japan
| | - Nobutada Sakagami
- Kanagawa Prefectural Livestock Industry Technology Center, Kanagawa 243-0417, Japan
| | - Ryotaro Miura
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo 180-8602, Japan
| | - Masaya Geshi
- Animal Breeding and Reproduction Research Division, NARO Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, Ibaraki 305-0901, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Ushijima
- Department of Applied Life Science, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo 180-8602, Japan
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In vitro production of sex preselected cattle embryos using a monoclonal antibody raised against bull sperm epitopes. Anim Reprod Sci 2019; 205:156-164. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2018.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Revised: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Duan JE, Jiang ZC, Alqahtani F, Mandoiu I, Dong H, Zheng X, Marjani SL, Chen J, Tian XC. Methylome Dynamics of Bovine Gametes and in vivo Early Embryos. Front Genet 2019; 10:512. [PMID: 31191619 PMCID: PMC6546829 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation undergoes drastic fluctuation during early mammalian embryogenesis. The dynamics of global DNA methylation in bovine embryos, however, have mostly been studied by immunostaining. We adopted the whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) method to characterize stage-specific genome-wide DNA methylation in bovine sperm, immature oocytes, oocytes matured in vivo and in vitro, as well as in vivo developed single embryos at the 2-, 4-, 8-, and 16-cell stages. We found that the major wave of genome-wide DNA demethylation was complete by the 8-cell stage when de novo methylation became prominent. Sperm and oocytes were differentially methylated in numerous regions (DMRs), which were primarily intergenic, suggesting that these non-coding regions may play important roles in gamete specification. DMRs were also identified between in vivo and in vitro matured oocytes, suggesting environmental effects on epigenetic modifications. In addition, virtually no (less than 1.5%) DNA methylation was found in mitochondrial DNA. Finally, by using RNA-seq data generated from embryos at the same developmental stages, we revealed a weak inverse correlation between gene expression and promoter methylation. This comprehensive analysis provides insight into the critical features of the bovine embryo methylome, and serves as an important reference for embryos produced in vitro, such as by in vitro fertilization and cloning. Lastly, these data can also provide a model for the epigenetic dynamics in human early embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyue Ellie Duan
- Department of Animal Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Zongliang Carl Jiang
- School of Animal Science, AgCenter, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
| | - Fahad Alqahtani
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Ion Mandoiu
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Hong Dong
- Institute of Animal Science, Xinjiang Academy of Animal Sciences, Ürümqi, China
| | - Xinbao Zheng
- Institute of Animal Science, Xinjiang Academy of Animal Sciences, Ürümqi, China
| | - Sadie L Marjani
- Department of Biology, Central Connecticut State University, New Britain, CT, United States
| | - Jingbo Chen
- Institute of Animal Science, Xinjiang Academy of Animal Sciences, Ürümqi, China
| | - Xiuchun Cindy Tian
- Department of Animal Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
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Dell’Eva G, Bolognini D, Iacono E, Merlo B. Superovulation protocols for dairy cows bred with SexedULTRA™ sex‐sorted semen. Reprod Domest Anim 2019; 54:756-761. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.13421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giuliana Dell’Eva
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences University of Bologna Ozzano Emilia (BO) Italy
| | | | - Eleonora Iacono
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences University of Bologna Ozzano Emilia (BO) Italy
| | - Barbara Merlo
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences University of Bologna Ozzano Emilia (BO) Italy
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Radefeld K, Papp S, Havlicek V, Morrell JM, Brem G, Besenfelder U. Endoscopy-mediated intratubal insemination in the cow - Development of a novel minimally invasive AI technique. Theriogenology 2018; 115:117-123. [PMID: 29751229 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Revised: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Conventionally inseminated spermatozoa suffer a dramatic reduction in numbers during their long journey until fertilization. In addition sperm survival seems to be strongly affected by the reconstitution of the female reproductive tract in the post partum period. The purpose of this study was to develop a novel AI technique for cattle that allows the deposition of spermatozoa directly into the ampulla in the immediate vicinity of the fertilization site. This new reproductive biotechnique was investigated with focus on semen origin, sperm dosage, semen preparation and time of insemination. Finally, a first practical application was carried out by inseminating superovulated heifers with sex-sorted semen. In total, 49 Simmental heifers were used for 65 intratubal inseminations (ITI) with single ovulation and 8 ITIs after superovulation, respectively. Insemination into the oviduct was performed under epidural anesthesia via transvaginal endoscopy using a curved glass capillary loaded with semen. Two days later the oviduct and the adjacent uterine horn were endoscopically flushed and embryos or unfertilized oocytes were collected for determination of fertilization success. Across all experimental groups, tubal insemination successfully resulted in the collection of embryos; however, first tubal AI attempts and ITIs close to ovulation led to low recovery rates. In total, 109 complexes were flushed from ITIs in superstimulated heifers (n = 8) using sex sorted semen, of which 24 (22%) were at the embryo stage. In conclusion, it was shown that intratubal insemination can be successfully used for semen deposition, thus bypassing the lower female genital tract. Factors such as time of insemination, semen processing and semen quantity for superovulatory use should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Radefeld
- Reproduction Centre Wieselburg, Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Rottenhauser Straße 32, 3250, Wieselburg, Austria
| | - Sophie Papp
- Reproduction Centre Wieselburg, Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Rottenhauser Straße 32, 3250, Wieselburg, Austria
| | - Vitezslav Havlicek
- Reproduction Centre Wieselburg, Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Rottenhauser Straße 32, 3250, Wieselburg, Austria; Department of Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Biotechnology in Animal Production, IFA-Tulln, 3430, Tulln, Austria
| | - Jane M Morrell
- Department of Clinical Science, Swedish University of Agricultural Science, P.O. Box 7070, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gottfried Brem
- Institute for Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Urban Besenfelder
- Reproduction Centre Wieselburg, Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Rottenhauser Straße 32, 3250, Wieselburg, Austria; Department of Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Biotechnology in Animal Production, IFA-Tulln, 3430, Tulln, Austria.
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Abstract
The use of sexed semen in dairy and beef cattle production provides a number of benefits at both farm and industry levels. There is an increasing demand for dairy and beef products across the globe, which will necessitate a greater focus on improving production efficiency. In dairy farming, there is surplus production of unwanted male calves. Male dairy calves increase the risk of dystocia compared with heifer calves, and as an unwanted by-product of breeding with conventional semen, they have a low economic value. Incorporating sexed semen into the breeding programme can minimise the number of unwanted male dairy calves and reduce dystocia. Sexed semen can be used to generate herd replacements and additional heifers for herd expansion at a faster rate from within the herd, thereby minimising biosecurity risks associated with bringing in animals from different herds. Furthermore, the use of sexed semen can increase herd genetic gain compared with use of non-sorted semen. In dairy herds, a sustainable breeding strategy could combine usage of sexed semen to generate replacements only, and usage of beef semen on all dams that are not suitable for generating replacements. This results in increased genetic gain in dairy herd, increased value of beef output from the dairy herd, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions from beef. It is important to note, however, that even a small decrease in fertility of sexed semen relative to conventional semen can negate much of the economic benefit. A high fertility sexed semen product has the potential to accelerate herd expansion, minimise waste production, improve animal welfare and increase profitability compared with non-sorted conventional semen.
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12
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Wang Q, Fu W, Liu X, Wang J, Feng C, Qiu S, Li X, Liu D, Zhu S, Lin X. Serum metabolomic profile in genetically modified cows carrying human α‑lactalbumin gene. Mol Med Rep 2017; 16:8833-8841. [PMID: 29039583 PMCID: PMC5779963 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.7768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the serum metabolomic profiles in genetically modified cows carrying and expressing human lactalbumin α (LALBA) and non‑LALBA cows, and identify altered metabolic characteristics following the genetic modification. Serum biochemistry indexes were measured according to protocols recommended by International Federation of Clinical Chemistry. The metabolomic profiles were determined using the serum samples collected from LALBA (n=6) and non‑LALBA cows (n=6). Welch's two‑sample t‑test was used to identify the metabolites that significantly differed between the LALBA and non‑LALBA groups (fold‑change ≠ 1 and P<0.05), followed by random forest and pathway analysis. The serum biochemistry indexes of LALBA and non‑LALBA cows were within the normal ranges of healthy cows. A total of 273 metabolites were detected, among which 79 metabolites, including 46 increased and 33 decreased metabolites, differed significantly between the LALBA and non‑LALBA groups. Random forest analysis identified 30 potential key metabolites, including 14 elevated and 16 reduced metabolites. These metabolites were primarily involved in pathways concerning the metabolism of leucine, isoleucine, valine, tryptophan and lipids, such as myristate and eicosapentaenoate. However, the serum in LALBA cow had unique metabolomic signature compared with non‑LALBA cows. The accumulation of polyunsaturated fatty acids and amino acids, and the reduced levels of long chain saturated fatty acids in serum may benefit LALBA cows. However, further investigations are required to validate these benefits and the corresponding mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Wang
- Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing Economic‑Technological Development Area, Beijing 100176, P.R. China
| | - Wei Fu
- Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing Economic‑Technological Development Area, Beijing 100176, P.R. China
| | - Xiaofei Liu
- Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing Economic‑Technological Development Area, Beijing 100176, P.R. China
| | - Jianwu Wang
- Wuxi Kingenew Biotech Co., Ltd., Beijing 100193, P.R. China
| | - Chunyan Feng
- Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing Economic‑Technological Development Area, Beijing 100176, P.R. China
| | - Songyin Qiu
- Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing Economic‑Technological Development Area, Beijing 100176, P.R. China
| | - Xiaolin Li
- Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing Economic‑Technological Development Area, Beijing 100176, P.R. China
| | - Dandan Liu
- Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing Economic‑Technological Development Area, Beijing 100176, P.R. China
| | - Shuifang Zhu
- Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing Economic‑Technological Development Area, Beijing 100176, P.R. China
| | - Xiangmei Lin
- Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing Economic‑Technological Development Area, Beijing 100176, P.R. China
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13
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Quality and developmental rate of embryos produced with sex-sorted and conventional semen from superovulated dairy cattle. Theriogenology 2017; 87:135-140. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2016] [Revised: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Souza Cáceres MB, Leite da Silva WA, Bini de Lima AC, de Oliveira JS, Tavares Cardoso CJ, Dos Santos JV, Andrade ER, Franco MM, Poehland R, Melo Sterza FDA. Trimethylation of histone 3 at lysine 4 in cryopreserved bovine embryos produced in vivo with sexed semen. Theriogenology 2016; 86:1944-52. [PMID: 27515411 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.06.013] [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: 12/17/2015] [Revised: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 06/13/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The production rates of viable embryos using sexed semen through the conventional methodologies of multiple ovulation and embryo transfer are generally not satisfactory. However, the cryopreservation of these embryos is considered efficient. Knowledge of epigenetics can provide new tools or allow for adapting new protocols that could enhance the efficiency of reproductive biotechnologies. The aim of this study was to characterize the pattern of trimethylation of histone 3 at lysine 4 (H3K4me3) in bovine embryos produced in vivo with sexed semen that were submitted to cryopreservation. Bos taurus × Bos indicus cows (n = 5) were superovulated and inseminated with sexed (two sessions) or conventional (two sessions) semen. A portion of the embryos collected on Day 7 was immediately stored in paraformaldehyde (3%) and another portion was stored in paraformaldehyde after cryopreservation/thawing. All embryos from the four groups (fresh, conventional semen; fresh, sexed semen; cryopreserved, conventional semen; and cryopreserved, sexed semen; 15 embryos per group) were evaluated by immunofluorescence under confocal microscopy to identify and quantify the H3K4me3 status. In total, 190 embryos were recovered, 100 of which were produced with conventional semen and 90 with sexed semen. The use of conventional semen after superovulation yielded 72% (72 of 100) viable embryos, which were mostly (81%; 59 of 72) in advanced stages of development (blastocysts and expanded blastocysts). Embryos produced with sexed semen had a lower viability rate (36.7%; 33 of 90), and most of them were collected at earlier stages of development (morulae and early blastocysts; P < 0.05). The H3K4me3 signal was similar among groups; however, there was a difference between morulae and blastocysts. A high intensity of H3K4me3 was observed in bovine embryos produced in vivo, and this pattern did not vary using sexed semen and the slow cryopreservation process. The lower viability of bovine embryos produced with sexed semen could be not explained by differences in H3K4me. Cryopreservation did not alter the pattern of H3K4me3; in this sense, we suggest that it is a process that exerts minimal damage to the embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirela B Souza Cáceres
- Animal Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Clinic, Agrarian Science Center, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Wilian A Leite da Silva
- Animal Science, State University of Mato Grosso do Sul (UEMS), Aquidauana, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Ana C Bini de Lima
- Animal Science, State University of Mato Grosso do Sul (UEMS), Aquidauana, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Jair S de Oliveira
- Veterinary Medicine, Biomedical Sciences Faculty de Cacoal, Cacoal, Rondonia, Brazil
| | | | - Jonathan V Dos Santos
- Animal Science, State University of Mato Grosso do Sul (UEMS), Aquidauana, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Evelyn R Andrade
- Veterinary Medicine, Federal University Foundation of Rondonia, Rolim de Moura, Rondonia, Brazil
| | - Mauricio M Franco
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa-Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Ralf Poehland
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, Dummerstof, Mecklenburg, Germany
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Inaba Y, Abe R, Geshi M, Matoba S, Nagai T, Somfai T. Sex-sorting of spermatozoa affects developmental competence of in vitro fertilized oocytes in a bull-dependent manner. J Reprod Dev 2016; 62:451-456. [PMID: 27301424 PMCID: PMC5081731 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2016-032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to clarify if flow-cytometric sex-sorting of bovine sperm affected in vitro blastocyst production in
different bulls, either in terms of its ability to fertilize the oocyte or by interfering with post-fertilization embryo development. We performed in
vitro fertilization (IVF) using both commercially available frozen-thawed X-sorted and non-sorted sperm of 4 Holstein bulls at 3 concentrations (1 ×
106, 2 × 106, and 5 × 106 sperm/ml). When fertilization rates were compared, a variation in fertilization rates among
different sperm concentrations was detected in 2 bulls, with similar results for X-sorted and non-sorted sperm. However, we found no evidence that the
fertilization rates were affected by the sorting process. To investigate effects on embryo development, we determined the optimum sperm concentration for IVF in
each bull, which resulted in similar fertilization rates among bulls. We next performed IVF using both X-sorted and non-sorted sperm of the 4 bulls at their
optimum sperm concentration and compared in vitro embryo development. Cleavage rates with X-sorted sperm were similar to their non-sorted
counterparts. However, significantly reduced blastocyst development was associated with the use of X-sorted sperm in one bull, whereas in the other three bulls,
blastocyst development after IVF with X-sorted and non-sorted sperm was similar. In conclusion, in our system, X-sorting affects in vitro
blastocyst production by reducing the developmental competence of fertilized oocytes rather than affecting the fertilization ability of the sperm. However, the
occurrence of this phenomenon varies among bulls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasushi Inaba
- Animal Breeding and Reproduction Research Division, NARO Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, Ibaraki 305-0901, Japan
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González J, Santos RR, Rodríguez R. Superovulatory response and embryo quality of Holstein heifers treated with one or two injections of somatotropin. REV COLOMB CIENC PEC 2015. [DOI: 10.17533/udea.rccp.v28n4a06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Mikkola M, Andersson M, Taponen J. Transfer of cattle embryos produced with sex-sorted semen results in impaired pregnancy rate and increased male calf mortality. Theriogenology 2015; 84:1118-22. [PMID: 26174034 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2015] [Revised: 06/15/2015] [Accepted: 06/17/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the pregnancy rate and calf mortality after transfer of embryos produced using sex-sorted semen. Data for 12,438 embryo transfers performed on dairy farms were analyzed. Of these, 10,697 embryos were produced using conventional semen (CONV embryos) and 1741 using sex-sorted semen from 97 bulls (SEX embryos), predominantly of Ayrshire and Holstein breeds. Of the CONV embryos, 27.4% were transferred fresh, whereas of the SEX embryos, 55.7% were fresh. Recipient attributes (breed, parity, number of previous breeding attempts, and interval from calving to transfer) were comparable for both embryo types, heifers representing 57.8% of recipients in the CONV group and 54.8% in the SEX group. Recipients that were not artificially inseminated or did not undergo a new embryo transfer after the initial embryo transfer and had registered calving in fewer than 290 days after the transfer were considered pregnant. Pregnancy rate for recipients receiving CONV embryos was 44.1%, and for those receiving SEX embryos, it was 38.8%. The odds ratio for pregnancy in recipients receiving CONV embryos was 1.34 compared with SEX embryos (P < 0.001). The proportion of female calves was 49.6% and 92.3% in CONV and SEX groups, respectively. Overall, calf mortality was comparable in both groups. Mortality was similar in CONV and SEX groups (6.6% and 7.7%, respectively) for female calves. For male calves, mortality was 9.2% in the CONV group but significantly higher, 16.0% (P < 0.05), in the SEX group. This study showed that transfer of embryos produced with sex-sorted semen decreased the pregnancy rate by about 12% compared with embryos produced using conventional semen. Mortality of male calves born from SEX embryos was higher than for those born from CONV embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Mikkola
- Department of Production Animal Medicine, University of Helsinki, Saarentaus, Finland.
| | - M Andersson
- Department of Production Animal Medicine, University of Helsinki, Saarentaus, Finland
| | - J Taponen
- Department of Production Animal Medicine, University of Helsinki, Saarentaus, Finland
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Jiang Z, Sun J, Dong H, Luo O, Zheng X, Obergfell C, Tang Y, Bi J, O'Neill R, Ruan Y, Chen J, Tian XC. Transcriptional profiles of bovine in vivo pre-implantation development. BMC Genomics 2014; 15:756. [PMID: 25185836 PMCID: PMC4162962 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-15-756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2014] [Accepted: 08/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background During mammalian pre-implantation embryonic development dramatic and orchestrated changes occur in gene transcription. The identification of the complete changes has not been possible until the development of the Next Generation Sequencing Technology. Results Here we report comprehensive transcriptome dynamics of single matured bovine oocytes and pre-implantation embryos developed in vivo. Surprisingly, more than half of the estimated 22,000 bovine genes, 11,488 to 12,729 involved in more than 100 pathways, is expressed in oocytes and early embryos. Despite the similarity in the total numbers of genes expressed across stages, the nature of the expressed genes is dramatically different. A total of 2,845 genes were differentially expressed among different stages, of which the largest change was observed between the 4- and 8-cell stages, demonstrating that the bovine embryonic genome is activated at this transition. Additionally, 774 genes were identified as only expressed/highly enriched in particular stages of development, suggesting their stage-specific roles in embryogenesis. Using weighted gene co-expression network analysis, we found 12 stage-specific modules of co-expressed genes that can be used to represent the corresponding stage of development. Furthermore, we identified conserved key members (or hub genes) of the bovine expressed gene networks. Their vast association with other embryonic genes suggests that they may have important regulatory roles in embryo development; yet, the majority of the hub genes are relatively unknown/under-studied in embryos. We also conducted the first comparison of embryonic expression profiles across three mammalian species, human, mouse and bovine, for which RNA-seq data are available. We found that the three species share more maternally deposited genes than embryonic genome activated genes. More importantly, there are more similarities in embryonic transcriptomes between bovine and humans than between humans and mice, demonstrating that bovine embryos are better models for human embryonic development. Conclusions This study provides a comprehensive examination of gene activities in bovine embryos and identified little-known potential master regulators of pre-implantation development. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/1471-2164-15-756) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jingbo Chen
- Center for Regenerative Biology, Department of Animal Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, USA.
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Hasler JF. Forty years of embryo transfer in cattle: a review focusing on the journal Theriogenology, the growth of the industry in North America, and personal reminisces. Theriogenology 2014; 81:152-69. [PMID: 24274419 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2013.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2013] [Revised: 09/09/2013] [Accepted: 09/11/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
After the first successful transfer of mammalian embryos in 1890, it was approximately 60 years before significant progress was reported in the basic technology of embryo transfer (ET) in cattle. Starting in the early 1970s, technology had progressed sufficiently to support the founding of commercial ET programs in several countries. Today, well-established and reliable techniques involving superovulation, embryo recovery and transfer, cryopreservation, and IVF are utilized worldwide in hundreds, if not thousands, of commercial businesses located in many countries. The mean number of embryos produced via superovulation has changed little in 40 years, but there have been improvements in synchrony and hormonal protocols. Cryopreservation of in vivo-derived embryos is a reliable procedure, but improvements are needed for biopsied and in vitro-derived embryos. High pregnancy rates are achieved when good quality embryos are transferred into suitable recipients and low pregnancy rates are often owing to problems in recipient management and not technology per se. In the future, unanticipated disease outbreaks and the ever-changing economics of cattle and milk prices will continue to influence the ET industry. The issue of abnormal pregnancies involving in vitro embryos has not been satisfactorily resolved and the involvement of abnormal epigenetics associate with this technology merits continued research. Last, genomic testing of bovine embryos is likely to be available in the foreseeable future. This may markedly decrease the number of embryos that are actually transferred and stimulate the evolution of more sophisticated ET businesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- John F Hasler
- Bioniche Animal Health, Inc., Pullman, Washington, USA.
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21
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Matoba S, Yoshioka H, Matsuda H, Sugimura S, Aikawa Y, Ohtake M, Hashiyada Y, Seta T, Nakagawa K, Lonergan P, Imai K. Optimizing production of in vivo-matured oocytes from superstimulated Holstein cows for in vitro production of embryos using X-sorted sperm. J Dairy Sci 2014; 97:743-53. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2013-6838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2013] [Accepted: 10/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Hansen PJ. Current and future assisted reproductive technologies for mammalian farm animals. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2014; 752:1-22. [PMID: 24170352 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-8887-3_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Reproduction in domestic animals is under control by man and the technologies developed to facilitate that control have a major impact on the efficiency of food production. Reproduction is an energy-intensive process. In beef cattle, for example, over 50 % of the total feed consumption required to produce a unit of meat protein is consumed by the dam of the meat animal (Anim Prod 27:367-379, 1978). Sows are responsible for about 20 % of the total feed needed to produce animals for slaughter (Adv Pork Prod 19:223-237, 2008). Accordingly, energy input to produce food from animal sources is reduced by increasing number of offspring per unit time a breeding female is in the herd. Using beef cattle as an example again, life-cycle efficiency for production of weaned calves is positively related to early age at puberty and short calving intervals (J Anim Sci 57:852-866, 1983). Reproductive technologies also dictate the strategies that can be used to select animals genetically for traits that improve production. Of critical importance has been artificial insemination (AI) (Anim Reprod Sci 62:143-172, 2000; Stud Hist Philos Biol Biomed Sci 38:411-441, 2007; Reprod Domest Anim 43:379-385, 2008; J Dairy Sci 92:5814-5833, 2009) and, as will be outlined in this chapter, emerging technologies offer additional opportunities for improvements in genetic selection. Given the central role of reproduction as a determinant of production efficiency and in genetic selection, improvements in reproductive technologies will be crucial to meeting the challenges created by the anticipated increases in world population (from seven billion people in 2011 to an anticipated nine billion by 2050; World population prospects: the 2010 revision, highlights and advance tables. Working Paper No. ESA/P/WP.220, New York) and by difficulties in livestock production wrought by climate change (SAT eJournal 4:1-23, 2007).The purpose of this chapter will be to highlight current and emerging reproductive technologies that have the potential to improve efficiency of livestock production. The focus will be on technologies that manipulate male and female gametes as well as the stem cells from which they are derived and the preimplantation embryo. While technology is crucial to other interventions in the reproductive process like control of seasonal breeding, hormonal regulation of ovulation, estrous cyclicity and pregnancy establishment, feeding to optimize reproduction, minimizing environmental stress, and selection of genes controlling reproduction, these will not be considered here. Rather the reader is directed to other chapters in this volume as well as some reviews on other aspects of artificial manipulation of reproduction (Reprod Fertil Dev 24:258-266, 2011; Reprod Domest Anim 43:40-47, 2008; Reprod Domest Anim 43:122-128, 2008; Soc Reprod Fertil Suppl 66:87-102, 2009; Comprehensive biotechnology, Amsterdam, pp 477-485; Dairy production medicine, Chichester, pp 153-163; Theriogenology 76:1619-1631, 2011; Theriogenology 76:1568-1582, 2011; Theriogenology 77:1-11, 2012). Given the large number of mammalian species used for production of products useful for man and the diversity in their biology and management, the review will not be comprehensive but instead will use results from species that are most illustrative of the opportunities generated by assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Hansen
- Department of Animal Sciences, D.H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, and Genetics Institute, University of Florida, 110910, Gainesville, FL, 32611-0910, USA,
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Kaimio I, Mikkola M, Lindeberg H, Heikkinen J, Hasler JF, Taponen J. Embryo production with sex-sorted semen in superovulated dairy heifers and cows. Theriogenology 2013; 80:950-4. [PMID: 23998739 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2013.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2013] [Revised: 07/16/2013] [Accepted: 07/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine the effect of sex-sorted semen on the number and quality of embryos recovered from superovulated heifers and cows on commercial dairy farm conditions in Finland. The data consist of 1487 commercial embryo collections performed on 633 and 854 animals of Holstein and Finnish Ayrshire breeds, respectively. Superovulation was induced by eight intramuscular injections of follicle-stimulating hormone, at 12-hour intervals over 4 days, involving declining doses beginning on 9 to 12 days after the onset of standing estrus. The donors were inseminated at 9 to 15-hour intervals beginning 12 hours after the onset of estrus with 2 + 2 (+1) doses of sex-sorted frozen-thawed semen (N = 218) into the uterine horns or with 1 + 1 (+1) doses of conventional frozen-thawed semen (N = 1269) into the uterine corpus. Most conventional semen (222 bulls) straws contained 15 million sperm (total number 30-45 million per donor). Sex-sorted semen (61 bulls) straws contained 2 million sperm (total number 8-14 million per donor). Mean number of transferable embryos in recoveries from cows bred with sex-sorted semen was 4.9, which is significantly lower than 9.1 transferable embryos recovered when using conventional semen (P ≤ 0.001). In heifers, no significant difference was detected between mean number of transferable embryos in recoveries using sex-sorted semen and conventional semen (6.1 and 7.2, respectively). The number of unfertilized ova was higher when using sex-sorted semen than when using conventional semen in heifers (P < 0.01) and in cows (P < 0.05), and the number of degenerated embryos in cows (P < 0.01), but not in heifers. It was concluded that the insemination protocol used seemed to be adequate for heifers. In superovulated cows, an optimal protocol for using sex-sorted semen remains to be found.
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Yu Y, Pang Y, Zhao H, Xu X, Wu Z, An L, Tian J. Association of a missense mutation in the luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor gene (LHCGR) with superovulation traits in Chinese Holstein heifers. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2012; 3:35. [PMID: 23140330 PMCID: PMC3502498 DOI: 10.1186/2049-1891-3-35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2012] [Accepted: 08/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Upon binding luteinizing hormone in the ovary, the luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor (LHCGR) is necessary for follicular maturation and ovulation, as well as luteal function. We detected mutations in the LHCGR gene and evaluated their association with superovulation. Methods Using polymerase chain reaction-single strand conformation polymorphism (PCR-SSCP) and DNA sequencing, we examined polymorphisms in LHCGR and the genotypes associated with superovulation traits in 127 Chinese Holstein heifers. Results A G/T polymorphism (ss52050737) in exon 11 was significantly associated with the total number of ova and the number of transferable embryos. Conclusions LHCGR may be a new predictor for superovulation in Chinese Holstein heifers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Yu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, PR China
| | - Yunwei Pang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, PR China
| | - Haichao Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, PR China
| | - Xiaoling Xu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, PR China
| | - Zhonghong Wu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, PR China
| | - Lei An
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, PR China
| | - Jianhui Tian
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, PR China
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26
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Geshi M. Current Status and the Future of Bovine Embryo Transfer using Sex Determined Embryos. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.1274/jmor.29.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Rodriguez-Martinez H. Assisted reproductive techniques for cattle breeding in developing countries: a critical appraisal of their value and limitations. Reprod Domest Anim 2012; 47 Suppl 1:21-6. [PMID: 22212208 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2011.01961.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Commercialization of animal biotechnologies, including those related to reproduction [also known as assisted reproductive techniques (ARTS)], is an increasing reality in developing countries, following the enormous flow of information around us and the increasing global commercial interests in areas where cattle production has its major assets. The present review discusses the achievements of various biotechnological tools for reproduction in cattle including semen handling for artificial insemination (AI), superovulation and embryo transfer (MOET), in vitro handling of oocytes and production of embryos, reproductive cloning and emerging technologies (sex selection, gene targeting and nuclear transfer for livestock transgenesis, genomics for marker-assisted selection, etc.). The application of these technologies for cattle breeding is critically discussed in relation to their impact in the improvement of the efficiency of dairy and beef production in developed and - particularly - in developing countries, which ultimately rule the possibilities of a competitive and sound production of food for human consumption. Despite the remarkable progress made and the punctual importance of some of the above-mentioned technologies, AI remains the most important assisted reproductive technology (ART) in developing countries. Any attempt to gain widespread of any other ART under the predominant economical conditions in developing countries ought to match the simplicity and the success of AI as a breeding tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
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29
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Abstract
Embryo biotechnology has become one of the prominent high businesses worldwide. This technology has evolved through three major changes, that is, traditional embryo transfer (in vivo embryo production by donor superovulation), in vitro embryo production by ovum pick up with in vitro fertilization and notably current cloning technique by somatic cell nuclear transfer and transgenic animal production. Embryo biotechnology has widely been used in dairy and beef cattle industry and commercial bovine embryo transfer has become a large international business. Currently, many developed biotechnologies during the period from early oocyte stage to pre-implantation embryos can be used to create new animal breeds and accelerate genetic progression. Based on recent advances in embryo biotechnologies and authors current studies, this review will focus on a description of the application of this technology to beef cattle improvement and discuss how to use this technology to accelerate beef cattle breeding and production. The main topics of this presentation include the following: (i) how to increase calf production numbers from gametes including sperm and oocyte; (ii) multiple ovulation and embryo transfer breeding schemes; (iii) in vitro fertilization and intracytoplasm sperm injection in bovine; (iv) pronuclear development and transgenic animals; (v) sex selection from sperm and embryos; (vi) cloning and androgenesis; (vii) blastocyst development and embryonic stem cells; (viii) preservation of beef cattle genetic resources; and (ix) conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Wu
- Arizona Center for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Tucson, AZ 85712, USA.
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Pedersen LD, Kargo M, Berg P, Voergaard J, Buch LH, Sørensen AC. Genomic selection strategies in dairy cattle breeding programmes: Sexed semen cannot replace multiple ovulation and embryo transfer as superior reproductive technology. J Anim Breed Genet 2011; 129:152-63. [PMID: 22394237 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0388.2011.00958.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to test whether the use of X-semen in a dairy cattle population using genomic selection (GS) and multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET) increases the selection intensity on cow dams and thereby the genetic gain in the entire population. Also, the dynamics of using different types of sexed semen (X, Y or conventional) in the nucleus were investigated. The stochastic simulation study partly supported the hypothesis as the genetic gain in the entire population was elevated when X-semen was used in the production population as GS exploited the higher selection intensity among heifers with great accuracy. However, when MOET was applied, the effect was considerably diminished as was the exchange of females between the nucleus and the production population, thus causing modest genetic profit from using X-sorted semen in the production population. In addition, the effect of using sexed semen on the genetic gain was very small compared with the effect of MOET and highly dependent on whether cow dams or bull dams were inseminated with sexed semen and on what type of semen that was used for the bull dams. The rate of inbreeding was seldom affected by the use of sexed semen. However, when all young bull candidates were born following MOET, the results showed that the use of Y-semen in the breeding nucleus tended to decrease the rate of inbreeding as it enabled GS to increase within-family selection. This implies that the benefit from using sexed semen in a modern dairy cattle breeding scheme applying both GS and MOET may be found in its beneficial effect on the rate of inbreeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- L D Pedersen
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Aarhus University, Tjele, Denmark.
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Embryo transfer and sex determination following superovulated hinds inseminated with frozen–thawed sex-sorted Y sperm or unsorted semen in Wapiti (Cervus elaphus songaricus). Anim Reprod Sci 2011; 126:245-50. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2011.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2010] [Revised: 04/30/2011] [Accepted: 05/17/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Bermejo-Alvarez P, Lonergan P, Rath D, Gutiérrez-Adan A, Rizos D. Developmental kinetics and gene expression in male and female bovine embryos produced in vitro with sex-sorted spermatozoa. Reprod Fertil Dev 2010; 22:426-36. [PMID: 20047728 DOI: 10.1071/rd09142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2009] [Accepted: 08/08/2009] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Using bovine embryos generated in vitro from IVF with X-sorted, Y-sorted and unsorted spermatozoa, we compared the kinetics of male and female embryo development and gene expression between male and female blastocysts. Bovine in vitro-matured oocytes (n = 8858) were fertilised with spermatozoa from each of three different bulls (X-sorted, Y-sorted or unsorted spermatozoa depending on the experiment). The cleavage rate was assessed 24, 27, 30, 33, 36, 40, 44 and 48 h post insemination (h.p.i.) and blastocyst development was recorded on Days 6-9. The relative mRNA abundance of nine genes (GSTM3, DNTM3A, PGRMC1, TP53, BAX, COX2, IGF2R, AKR1B1 and PLAC8) was analysed in male and female Day 7 blastocysts produced with sorted and unsorted spermatozoa from one bull. Cumulative cleavage rate and blastocyst yield were significantly higher in the unsorted group compared with the X- or Y-sorted group from the same bull (P < or = 0.05). Although differences existed between bulls in terms of cleavage rate, no differences were observed in cleavage rate between X- and Y-sorted spermatozoa within a bull. The blastocyst yield was significantly higher only for Bull 3 when the Y-sorted spermatozoa were used (27.1+2.8 v. 19.1+1.4 for Y- and X-sorted spermatozoa, respectively; P < 0.05). There were no differences in the mRNA abundance of the nine genes analysed between embryos of the same sex produced with sorted or unsorted spermatozoa. However, significant differences in polyA mRNA abundance were observed between male and female blastocysts for three genes (GSTM3, DNMT3A and PGRMC1; P < or = 0.05). In conclusion, the use of sorted rather than unsorted spermatozoa in IVF significantly delays the onset of first cleavage. Differences were noted between bulls, but not between X- and Y-sorted spermatozoa, and although no differences were found in terms of the mRNA abundance of the nine genes tested between sorted and unsorted spermatozoa, sex-related differences were found in the case of three genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Bermejo-Alvarez
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal y Conservaciónde Recursos Zoogenéticos, INIA, Carretera De la Coruña Km 5.9, Madrid 28040, Spain
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