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Gonçalves JD, Dias JH, Machado-Neves M, Vergani GB, Ahmadi B, Pereira Batista RIT, Souza-Fabjan JMG, Oliveira MEF, Bartlewski PM, da Fonseca JF. Transcervical uterine flushing and embryo transfer in sheep: Morphophysiological basis for approaches currently used, major challenges, potential improvements, and new directions (alas, including some old ideas). Reprod Biol 2024; 24:100920. [PMID: 38970979 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2024.100920] [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: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
At present, the success of non-surgical embryo recovery (NSER) and transfer (NSET) hinges upon the cervical passage of catheters, but penetration of the uterine cervix in ewes is problematic due to its anatomical structure (i.e., long and narrow cervical lumen with misaligned folds and rings). It is a major obstacle limiting the widespread application of NSER and NSET in sheep. While initial attempts to traverse the uterine cervix focused on adapting or re-designing insemination catheters, more recent studies demonstrated that cervical relaxation protocols were instrumental for transcervical penetration in the ewe. An application of such protocols more than tripled cervical penetration rates (currently at 90-95 %) in sheep of different breeds (e.g., Dorper, Lacaune, Santa Inês, crossbred, and indigenous Brazilian breeds) and ages/parity. There is now sufficient evidence to suggest that even repeatedly performed cervical passages do not adversely affect overall health and reproductive function of ewes. Despite these improvements, appropriate selection of donors and recipients remains one of the most important requirements for maintaining high success rates of NSER and NSET, respectively. Non-surgical ovine embryo recovery has gradually become a commercially viable method as even though the procedure still cannot be performed by untrained individuals, it is inexpensive, yields satisfactory results, and complies with current public expectations of animal welfare standards. This article reviews critical morphophysiological aspects of transcervical embryo flushing and transfer, and the prospect of both techniques to replace surgical methods for multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET) programs in sheep. We have also discussed some potential pharmacological and technical developments in the field of non-invasive embryo recovery and deposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joedson Dantas Gonçalves
- Department of Pathology, Reproduction and One Health, School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University, Via de acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, CEP 14884-900 Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Jenniffer Hauschildt Dias
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Viçosa, Av. Peter Henry Rolfs, s/n, CEP 36570-000 Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - Mariana Machado-Neves
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Viçosa, Av. Peter Henry Rolfs, s/n, CEP 36570-000 Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Brun Vergani
- Department of Pathology, Reproduction and One Health, School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University, Via de acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, CEP 14884-900 Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Bahareh Ahmadi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | | | | | - Maria Emilia Franco Oliveira
- Department of Pathology, Reproduction and One Health, School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University, Via de acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, CEP 14884-900 Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Pawel Mieczyslaw Bartlewski
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
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Gonçalves JD, Ferraz JBS, Meirelles FV, Nociti RP, Oliveira MEF. An Exploratory Data Analysis from Ovine and Bovine RNA-Seq Identifies Pathways and Key Genes Related to Cervical Dilatation. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2052. [PMID: 37443850 DOI: 10.3390/ani13132052] [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: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study developed a review and exploration of data in public and already validated repositories. The main objective was to identify the pathways involved in ruminants' cervical dilatation, which are conserved between cattle and sheep in the follicular and luteal phases of the reproductive cycle. In cattle, 1961 genes were more differentially expressed in the follicular phase and 1560 in the luteal phase. An amount of 24 genes were considered exclusively expressed from these. A total of 18 genes were in the follicular phase and 6 genes were in the luteal phase. In sheep, 2126 genes were more differentially expressed in the follicular phase and 2469 genes were more differentially expressed in the luteal phase. Hoxb genes were identified in both species and are correlated with the PI3K/Akt pathway. PI3K/Akt was also found in both cattle and sheep, appearing prominently in the follicular and luteal phases of both species. Our analyses have pointed out that the PI3K/Akt pathway and the Hoxb genes appear in prominence in modulating mechanisms that involve estrus alterations in the cervix. PI3K/Akt appears to be an important pathway in the cervical relaxation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joedson Dantas Gonçalves
- Department of Pathology, Reproduction and One Health, School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University, Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, Jaboticabal 14884-900, SP, Brazil
| | - José Bento Sterman Ferraz
- Molecular Morphophysiology and Development Laboratory, Departament of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Food Engineering-FZEA, University of São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte 255, Pirassununga 14635-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Flávio Vieira Meirelles
- Molecular Morphophysiology and Development Laboratory, Departament of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Food Engineering-FZEA, University of São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte 255, Pirassununga 14635-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Perecin Nociti
- Molecular Morphophysiology and Development Laboratory, Departament of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Food Engineering-FZEA, University of São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte 255, Pirassununga 14635-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Emilia Franco Oliveira
- Department of Pathology, Reproduction and One Health, School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University, Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, Jaboticabal 14884-900, SP, Brazil
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3
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Dias JH, Gonçalves JD, Arrais AM, Souza-Fabjan JMG, Bastos R, Batista RITP, Siqueira LGB, Oliveira MEF, Fonseca JF. Effects of different doses of estradiol benzoate used in a cervical relaxation protocol on the success of non-surgical embryo recovery and luteal function in superovulated ewes. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2023; 82:106751. [PMID: 35901610 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2022.106751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the effectiveness of different doses of estradiol benzoate (EB) to promote cervical relaxation and their effects on luteal function and outcomes of non-surgical embryo recovery (NSER) in sheep. Multiparous (MULT) and nulliparous (NULL) crossbred Lacaune X Santa Inês ewes were superovulated and naturally bred. Seven days after progesterone withdrawal, females were randomly assigned to one of three distinct cervical relaxation protocols, consisting of i.m. treatment with 37.5 µg d-cloprostenol and different doses of EB: 0.0 mg (0.0EB group; n = 3 NULL and 14 MULT); 0.5 mg (0.5EB group; n = 4 NULL and 12 MULT) or 1.0 mg (1.0EB group, n = 6 NULL and 11 MULT) 16 h before NSER. All ewes received 50 IU of oxytocin 20 min before NSER (D17). Blood samples were collected and ultrasound exams (B-mode and color Doppler) were performed at two timepoints: immediately before d-cloprostenol and EB treatments and prior to NSER. Estrous behavior, corpora lutea count and NSER success outcomes were not affected by EB treatments nor parity (P > 0.05). Embryo recovery rate was greater for ewes in the 0.5EB group and in the NULL ewes (P < 0.05). Ovarian biometrics differed between the two evaluation timepoints in all groups (P < 0.05). Plasma estradiol increased over time, reaching a significant greater level in 1.0EB ewes compared to controls on D17 (P < 0.05), whereas progesterone concentrations decreased over time in all groups (P > 0.05). In conclusion, treatments did not affect NSER success but they did affect luteal function by altering P4 and E2 concentrations. Therefore, the NSER technique can be successfully performed in ewes with or without prior treatment with EB.
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Affiliation(s)
- J H Dias
- Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Av. Peter Henry Rolfs, s/n, 36570-000, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - J D Gonçalves
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, 14884-900, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - A M Arrais
- Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Rodovia BR 465, Km7, s/n, 23890-000, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
| | - J M G Souza-Fabjan
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Vital Brazil Filho, 64, 24230-340, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - R Bastos
- Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Av. Alberto Lamego, n° 2000, 28013-642, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - R I T P Batista
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Vital Brazil Filho, 64, 24230-340, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - L G B Siqueira
- Embrapa Gado de Leite, Av. Eugênio do Nascimento, 610, 36038-330, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - M E F Oliveira
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, 14884-900, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - J F Fonseca
- Embrapa Caprinos e Ovinos, Três Lagoas Farm, Road Sobral -Groaíras, km 04, CP 145, 62010-970, Sobral, CE, Brazil.
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Santos JDR, Batista RITP, Ungerfeld R, Taira AR, Espírito Santo CGD, Souza-Fabjan JMG, Fernandes DADM, Balaro MFA, Cosentino IO, Brair VL, Pinto PHN, Carvalho ABDS, Fonseca JFD, Brandão FZ. Hormonal protocol used for cervical dilation in ewes does not affect morphological embryo quality but reduces recovery rate and temporarily alters gene expression. Vet Rec 2021; 190:e1064. [PMID: 34750835 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.1064] [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: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Information on the impact of hormonal protocols for cervical dilation on the quality of ovine embryos is scarce. METHODS To compare the quality of embryos after cervical dilation protocol, ewes (n = 64) were allocated into either a treated group (100 μg estradiol benzoate intravenous and 0.12 mg cloprostenol intramuscularly, 12 hours before embryo collection plus 100 iu oxytocin intravenous 15 minutes before the collection procedure) or a control group (saline). Luteal function was analysed using ultrasonography and P4 measurement. Some collected embryos were frozen/thawed for gene expression, others were cultured in vitro, frozen/thawed for gene expression, and the remaining embryos were fixed for the apoptosis test (TUNEL test). RESULTS The treatment reduced fluid (p=0.04) and structure (p=0.03) recovery rates, but the morphological quality, development stage, and apoptosis incidence of the embryos were not affected by treatment. The corpora lutea of the control group had greater blood perfusion (p = 0.002) and greater P4 concentrations at 6, 9, and 12 h after the treatment (p < 0.0001). The expression of BAX, BCL2, PRDX1, and HSP90 genes were not affected by the treatment. However, the embryos in the treated group had fewer NANOG and OCT4 transcripts than control embryos (p = 0.008; p = 0.006, respectively). After culture, there was no difference between the groups in any gene. CONCLUSION The hormonal protocol for cervical dilation reduced the efficiency of embryo collection. In addition, the treatment induced luteolysis and a transient alteration of embryo gene expression, however there were no detectable changes in embryo morphological quality, development stage, or incidence of apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Dantas Rodrigues Santos
- Departamento de Patologia e Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Rodolfo Ungerfeld
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Augusto Ryonosuke Taira
- Departamento de Patologia e Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Caroline Gomes do Espírito Santo
- Departamento de Patologia e Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Daniel Andrews de Moura Fernandes
- Departamento de Patologia e Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Mário Felipe Alvarez Balaro
- Departamento de Patologia e Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Isabel Oliveira Cosentino
- Departamento de Patologia e Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Viviane Lopes Brair
- Departamento de Patologia e Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Pedro Henrique Nicolau Pinto
- Departamento de Patologia e Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ana Beatriz da Silva Carvalho
- Departamento de Patologia e Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Felipe Zandonadi Brandão
- Departamento de Patologia e Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Dos Santos VMB, Pinto PHN, Balaro MFA, Santos JDR, Taira AR, do Espirito Santo CG, Gonçalves FM, da Fonseca JF, Brandão FZ. Use of oxytocin to attain cervical dilation for transcervical embryo transfer in sheep. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:1446-1454. [PMID: 32757343 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this work was to determine whether a cervical dilation protocol (CDP) composed of only oxytocin can be used to perform transcervical (non-surgical) embryo transfer in sheep (NSET) without affecting the viability of the corpus luteum (CL). Likewise, we evaluated whether a cervical transposing test with a Hegar dilator (CT Hegar test), performed at oestrous time, could be used to screen ewes for NSET (greater or lower chances to transpose the cervix). For that, oestrous and ovulation synchronization was performed in 25 Santa Inês ewes to induce the dioestrous condition. Animals went through the following CDP in a crossover design: E + OX, oestradiol benzoate (100 µg intravenously [IV]) and oxytocin (100 IU IV); OX, oxytocin (100 IU IV); and SAL, saline solution (IV). Using a Hegar dilator, cervical transposing attempts were performed at oestrous (D0) and dioestrous time (D8). The viability of the CL (morphology, luteal blood flow and progesterone values) was evaluated by ultrasonography (colour Doppler and B-mode) and by serum progesterone measurement from D7 to D13. The cervical transposing rate was lower for the SAL group (64%; 16/25; p < .05) and did not differ between the E + OX (88%; 22/25, p > .05) and OX (84%; 21/25, p > .05) groups. No treatment affected the CL viability. The CT Hegar test showed a high sensitivity (85.7%-93.3%), satisfactory accuracy (72%-84%), low false-negative rate (6.7%-14.6%), but high false-positive rate (46%-66.7%). In conclusion, a CDP protocol composed exclusively of oxytocin can lead to good cervical transposing rates and does not affect the viability of the CL. In addition, a screening test (CT Hegar) performed at oestrus can identify ewes for which cervical transposing will likely not occur at NSET.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Juliana D R Santos
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
| | - Augusto R Taira
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Felipe Z Brandão
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
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Sa Söz H, Liman N, Güney Saruhan B, Akbal K ME, Ketani MA, Topalo Lu UU. Expression and localisation of epidermal growth factor receptors and their ligands in the lower genital tract of cycling cows. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 31:1692-1706. [PMID: 31270009 DOI: 10.1071/rd18179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The epidermal growth factor receptor (ErbB) family and its ligands are essential for the regulation of multiple cellular processes required for mammalian reproduction. The objectives of this study were to investigate the expression and localisation of ErbB subtypes (ErbB1-4) and selected ligands, namely epidermal growth factor (EGF), amphiregulin (AREG) and neuregulin (NRG), in the cervix and vagina of cycling cows and to determine possible steroid hormone-dependence of their expression using immunohistochemistry. All four ErbBs and EGF, AREG and NRG proteins were found to be localised in the nucleus and cytoplasm of different cells in the cervix and vagina, and their expression differed during the oestrous cycle. During the follicular phase, in both the cervix and vagina, ErbB1, ErbB2, ErbB3, ErbB4 and EGF expression was higher in the luminal epithelium (LE) than in stromal and smooth muscle (SM) cells (P<0.05). During the luteal phase, the expression of ErbB1, ErbB3 and EGF in the LE was significantly different from that in stromal and SM cells in the cervix, whereas the expression of EGF and AREG differed in the vagina compared to the cervix (P<0.05). Throughout the oestrous cycle, in both the cervix and vagina, although ErbB2/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 expression in the LE and SM cells was significantly higher than in the stromal cells (P<0.05), NRG expression was similar in the LE, stromal and SM cells (P>0.05). Overall, these results suggest that all four ErbBs and the EGF, AREG and NRG proteins may collectively contribute to several cellular processes in the bovine cervix and vagina during the oestrous cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hakan Sa Söz
- Dicle University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, 21280, Diyarbakir, Turkey; and Corresponding author.
| | - Narin Liman
- Erciyes University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Berna Güney Saruhan
- Dicle University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, 21280, Diyarbakir, Turkey
| | - Mehmet E Akbal K
- Dicle University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, 21280, Diyarbakir, Turkey
| | - Muzaffer A Ketani
- Dicle University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, 21280, Diyarbakir, Turkey
| | - U Ur Topalo Lu
- Dicle University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, 21280, Diyarbakir, Turkey
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Abstract
Among prostaglandins, Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) (PGE2) is considered especially important for decidualization, ovulation, implantation and pregnancy. Four major PGE2 receptor subtypes, EP1, EP2, EP3, EP4, as well as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), mediate various PGE2 effects via their coupling to distinct signaling pathways. This review summarizes up-to-date literatures on the role of prostaglandin E2 receptors in female reproduction, which could provide a broad perspective to guide further research in this field. PGE2 plays an indispensable role in decidualization, ovulation, implantation and pregnancy. However, the precise mechanism of Prostaglandin E2 (EP) receptors in the female reproductive system is still limited. More investigations should be performed on the mechanism of EP receptors in the pathological states, and the possibility of EP agonists or antagonists clinically used in improving reproductive disorders.
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Campbell MLH, Peachey L, Callan L, Wathes DC, de Mestre AM. Cyclical cervical function in the mare involves remodelling of collagen content, which is correlated with modification of oestrogen receptor 1 abundance. Anim Reprod Sci 2019; 210:106192. [PMID: 31635778 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2019.106192] [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: 02/07/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to elucidate mare cervical dilation mechanisms by testing two hypotheses: (i) the proportion of collagen staining in histological samples of mare cervices and (ii) the abundance of hormone receptors in the equine cervix differ with stage of the oestrous cycle and site within the cervix. Tissues and jugular vein blood samples were collected from 15 mares. Collagen content was assessed using Masson's Trichome staining. Receptor abundance was assessed using RT-PCR, qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. In sub-epithelial stroma, there was less collagen during the follicular than luteal phase, in the caudal- (P = 0.029), mid- (P = 0.0000) and cranial (P = 0.001) cervical tissue. In the deep stroma, there was less collagen staining during the follicular stage in the mid- (P = 0.004) and cranial- (P = 0.041) cervical regions. There were PTGER2, PTGER3, PGR and ESR1 mRNA transcripts in the cervix. A greater proportion of cells were positive for ESR1 protein during the follicular phase in sub-epithelial (P = 0.019) and deep (P = 0.013) stroma. The abundance of ESR1 in the epithelium was negatively correlated with collagen staining in sub-epithelial (P = 0.007) and deep (P = 0.005) stroma. The results of the study provide new information about the cervical biology of mares by increasing the knowledge about collagen content and the relationship between collagen content and ESR1 protein abundance during the oestrous cycle which indicates the ESR1 receptor is a candidate for involvement in control of cervical dilation.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Cervix Uteri/physiology
- Cloning, Molecular
- Collagen/physiology
- DNA, Complementary/genetics
- DNA, Complementary/metabolism
- Estrogen Receptor alpha/genetics
- Estrogen Receptor alpha/metabolism
- Estrogen Receptor beta/genetics
- Estrogen Receptor beta/metabolism
- Estrous Cycle/physiology
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation/physiology
- Horses
- Labor Stage, First/physiology
- Luteinizing Hormone/genetics
- Luteinizing Hormone/metabolism
- Pregnancy
- Progesterone/metabolism
- RNA/genetics
- RNA/metabolism
- Receptors, FSH/genetics
- Receptors, FSH/metabolism
- Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP2 Subtype/genetics
- Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP2 Subtype/metabolism
- Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP3 Subtype/genetics
- Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP3 Subtype/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- M L H Campbell
- The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK; Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, UK.
| | - L Peachey
- The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - L Callan
- The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D C Wathes
- The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK; Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, UK
| | - A M de Mestre
- The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK; Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, UK
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Rodríguez-Piñón M, Casuriaga D, Genovese P, García-Barcelo G, Alcaide F, Bielli A. Collagen, glycosaminoglycans and matrix metalloproteinase-2 and metalloproteinase-9 in the cervix of the ewe during prepubertal development. Anat Histol Embryol 2019; 48:306-314. [PMID: 30907032 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12441] [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: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 03/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The tortuous nature of the ovine cervix restricts the transcervical passage of the cannula, and many studies have aimed to understand the endocrine mechanism of the remodelling of cervical tissue in adult ewe. However, little is known about the remodelling of the cervical tissue during the prepubertal development of the lambs. To obtain histochemical and biochemical evidence about the nature of the prepubertal development of the cervix of the ewe, cervices of Corriedale lambs obtained at 0, 1, 2, 4, 6 and 8 months of age (n = 5 to 6 in each) were processed. Neutral and acidic glycosaminoglycans (by PAS-Alcian stain) were weakly in the cervical stroma and not shown change during the development, whereas the percentage volume of fibrillar collagen (by van Gieson stain) increases throughout the experimental period in the superficial fold stroma and deep wall stroma (p < 0.05). The relative cervical weight (g/kg of body weight) and the collagen concentration (by spectrophotometry, mg/mg wet tissue) showed an early decreasing phase from months 0 to 4 and a later increasing phase from months 4 to 8 (p < 0.05). The latent form of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) detected by gelatin zymography (ng/mg protein) decreased from months 0 to 2 and increased from months 4 to 8, whereas the activated form decreased from months 0 to 2, remained low until month 6 and then recovered on month 8 (p < 0.0001). Data suggest that the relative cervical weight biphasic pattern during the development is related to MMP-2-dependent changes in the collagen content.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo Rodríguez-Piñón
- Biochemistry, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Daniela Casuriaga
- Biochemistry, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Patricia Genovese
- Histology and Embryology, Department of Morphology and Development, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Gonzalo García-Barcelo
- Biochemistry, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Fernanda Alcaide
- Histology and Embryology, Department of Morphology and Development, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Alejandro Bielli
- Histology and Embryology, Department of Morphology and Development, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
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Leite C, Fonseca J, Fernandes D, Souza-Fabjan J, Ascoli F, Brandão F. Cervical relaxation for non-surgical uterus access in Santa Inês ewes. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2018. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-4162-9622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT The present study was composed by two experiments aiming to develop a cervical dilation technique for non-surgical access to Santa Inês ewe’s uterus. In Experiment 1, thirty ewes underwent four epidural treatments. The three experimental treatments used 2.0mg/kg ketamine. The group receiving this drug alone was denominated KG, whereas other group had ketamine associated with 0.1mg/kg morphine (KM) and KX a third group had ketamine associated with 0.05mg/kg xylazine (KX). Control treatment was 1mL/7.5kg saline solution epidurally (CON). Cervical dilation was evaluated in both experiments by attempting to pass a metal rod through the cervix. In Experiment 2, three different hormonal protocols for cervical dilation were tested in thirty ewes. Epidural anesthesia with 2.0mg/kg ketamine was the control treatment (KG) and was combined with hormonal treatments: Misoprostol (MI); Oxytocin + Estradiol (OE); Misoprostol + Oxytocin + Estradiol (MOE). In Experiment 1 transposition rate was not different among groups. In Experiment 2, OE presented the highest rate (90%) while MOE presented 86.2%, MI 68.9% and CON 62.1%. The study developed a pharmacological protocol that increased cervical transposition making the non-surgical access to the uterus feasible in Santa Inês ewes.
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Santos JDR, Arashiro EKN, Balaro MFA, Souza-Fabjan JMG, Pinto PHN, de Souza CV, Leite CR, Fonseca JFD, Brandão FZ. Cervical transposition test using Hegar dilator at oestrus as a tool to select ewes for transcervical embryo collection. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 54:126-128. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.13306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ceci Ribeiro Leite
- Faculdade de Veterinária; Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF); Niterói Brazil
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Ustuner H, Ustuner B, Toker MB, Alcay S, Demir K, Sagirkaya H, Nur Z. Administration time of misoprostol affects fertility rate in artificially inseminated Kivircik ewes with frozen-thawed ram semen. Anim Reprod 2018; 15:156-160. [PMID: 34122647 PMCID: PMC8186878 DOI: 10.21451/1984-3143-ar2018-005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the effects of the administration time of misoprostol
(11 h (Miso11) and 6 h (Miso6) before artificial insemination) on fertility rates in Kivircik
ewes (control: n = 41, Miso11: n = 32 and Miso6: n = 33) during breeding season. Artificial insemination
(AI) was performed 48 h after sponge removal using frozen-thawed semen (150 million sperm
per dose in 0.25 ml straws). Estrus synchronization parameters (onset and duration) and lambing
rate were evaluated. No significant difference was observed among groups for the estrus onset
and duration hours (P > 0.05). The lambing rates in the control, Miso11 and Miso6 groups
were 39.0, 62.5 and 54.5%, respectively. There were significant differences among the control,
Miso11 and Miso6 groups according to lambing rates (P < 0.05). In conclusion, misoprostol
treatment significantly improved fertility in ewes when using frozen-thawed semen in AI.
Administration of misoprostol 11 h before AI resulted in a higher lambing rate than that at
6 h before AI; therefore, treatment of misoprostol 11 h before AI can effectively be used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hakan Ustuner
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Uludag University, Gorukle/Bursa, 16059, Turkey
| | - Burcu Ustuner
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Uludag University, Gorukle/Bursa, 16059, Turkey
| | - M Berk Toker
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Uludag University, Gorukle/Bursa, 16059, Turkey
| | - Selim Alcay
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Uludag University, Gorukle/Bursa, 16059, Turkey
| | - Kamber Demir
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Istanbul University, Avcılar/Istanbul, 16059, Turkey
| | - Hakan Sagirkaya
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Uludag University, Gorukle/Bursa, 16059, Turkey
| | - Zekariya Nur
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Uludag University, Gorukle/Bursa, 16059, Turkey
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Rodríguez-Piñón M, Tasende C, Genovese P, Bielli A, Casuriaga D, Garófalo EG. Priming anoestrous Corriedale ewes with progesterone and gonadotrophin-releasing hormone causes cervical tissue remodelling due to metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) activity. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2018. [DOI: 10.1071/an16138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The aim was to obtain experimental evidence of cervical collagen degradation in anoestrous Corriedale adult ewes induced to ovulate with progesterone (P) and gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH), at the expected time of induced ovulation and early luteal phase. In Experiment 1, anoestrous ewes were treated with P for 10 days (P, n = 4), with nine micro-doses of GnRH followed by a GnRH bolus injection (GnRH, n = 4) or with P plus GnRH treatments (P+GnRH, n = 3), and cervices were obtained either without treatment (A, n = 4), when P was removed, or 24 h after the GnRH bolus injection. In Experiment 2, cervices were obtained 1 (group P+GnRH, n = 5) or 5 (P+GnRH 5, n = 6) days after the GnRH bolus injection with P pretreatment. MMP-2 activity was detected in all samples; however, MMP-9 activity was only detected in 15% of the samples. The activity of the latent (L) form of MMP-2 in the cranial zone of group A was higher than in the cranial zone of groups P, GnRH and P+GnRH, and was also higher than that in the caudal zone of the same group (P < 0.05). The collagen concentration was lower in group P+GnRH 1 than in group P+GnRH 5 (P < 0.04). The activity of the activated (A) form of MMP-2 and the A/L MMP-2 ratio were higher in group P+GnRH 1 than in group P+GnRH 5 (P < 0.05). Data suggest that the L form of MMP-2 was expressed mainly in a constitutive form in the cervix of anoestrous ewes and that an oestrogen-dependent activation mechanisms due to the GnRH treatment may be responsible for the lowest collagen content at the moment of the induced ovulation. This work provides evidence about cervical collagen remodelling in anoestrous ewes treated with P + GnRH.
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The effect of the intracervical administration of FSH or LH on the levels of hyaluronan, COX2, and COX2 mRNA in the cervix of the nonpregnant ewe. Theriogenology 2016; 86:2244-2253. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Revised: 07/11/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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15
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Assessing the usefulness of prostaglandin E2 (Cervidil) for transcervical artificial insemination in ewes. Theriogenology 2015; 84:1594-602. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2015] [Revised: 08/09/2015] [Accepted: 08/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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16
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Rodríguez-Piñón M, Tasende C, Casuriaga D, Bielli A, Genovese P, Garófalo E. Collagen and matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 in the ewe cervix during the estrous cycle. Theriogenology 2015; 84:818-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Revised: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 05/21/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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17
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Ryan CNM, Sorushanova A, Lomas AJ, Mullen AM, Pandit A, Zeugolis DI. Glycosaminoglycans in Tendon Physiology, Pathophysiology, and Therapy. Bioconjug Chem 2015; 26:1237-51. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.5b00091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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18
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Leethongdee S, Khalid M, Scaramuzzi RJ. The Effect of the Intracervical Application of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone or Luteinizing Hormone on the Pattern of Expression of Gonadotrophin Receptors in the Cervix of Non-Pregnant Ewes. Reprod Domest Anim 2014; 49:568-575. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2013] [Accepted: 11/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S Leethongdee
- Faculty of Veterinary Sciences; Mahasarakham University; Amphur Muang Mahasarakham Thailand
| | - M Khalid
- The Royal Veterinary College; North Mimms; Hertfordshire UK
| | - RJ Scaramuzzi
- The Royal Veterinary College; North Mimms; Hertfordshire UK
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Candappa IBR, Bartlewski PM. Induction of cervical dilation for transcervical embryo transfer in ewes. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2014; 12:8. [PMID: 24467737 PMCID: PMC3909445 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-12-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2013] [Accepted: 01/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A major limitation in the application of assisted reproductive technologies in sheep arises from the inability to easily traverse the uterine cervix. The cervix of the non-pregnant ewe is a narrow and rigid structure, with 5-7 spiral folds and crypts that block its lumen. The first two folds closest to the vagina appear to be the greatest obstacle for the instrument insertion into the sheep cervix. Therefore, the dilation of the distal part of the cervix could provide the conformational change necessary to perform non-invasive transcervical procedures. The present study set out to assess the efficacy of Cervidil®, a patented dinoprostone (PgE2)-containing vaginal insert with a controlled-release mechanism, to safely induce sufficient cervical dilation for the purpose of transcervical embryo transfer (TCET) in cyclic ewes. METHODS The transfer of frozen-thawed ovine embryos was attempted in 22 cross-bred Rideau Arcott x Polled Dorset ewes, with or without the pre-treatment with Cervidil® for 12 or 24 h prior to TCET. RESULTS Cervical penetration rate was significantly improved after Cervidil® pre-treatment, with 55% (6/11) of treated versus 9% (1/11) of control animals successfully penetrated (χ2-test, p < 0.05). Within the treated ewes that were penetrated, 67% (4/6) had been exposed to Cervidil(R) for 24 h and 33% (2/6) had had a 12-h exposure (p > 0.05). Variations in the age, weight, genotype, parity, lifetime lamb production (LLP) and post-partum interval (PPI) between penetrated and non-penetrated ewes were not significant (p > 0.05). The time taken to traverse the uterine cervix was negatively correlated (p < 0.05) with the age, parity, LLP and PPI. Progesterone assays and ultrasonographic examinations performed 25 days after ET confirmed pregnancy in 2 of 7 penetrated ewes, but no fetuses were detected ultrasonographically 55 days post-TCET. CONCLUSIONS The present results indicate a significant benefit of using Cervidil® for inducing cervical dilation during the mid-luteal phase in ewes but the reason(s) for impaired fertility after the transfer of frozen-thawed ovine embryos remains to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivanka BR Candappa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph ON, Canada
| | - Pawel M Bartlewski
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph ON, Canada
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20
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Diverse roles of prostaglandins in blastocyst implantation. ScientificWorldJournal 2014; 2014:968141. [PMID: 24616654 PMCID: PMC3925584 DOI: 10.1155/2014/968141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2013] [Accepted: 12/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostaglandins (PGs), derivatives of arachidonic acid, play an indispensable role in embryo implantation. PGs have been reported to participate in the increase in vascular permeability, stromal decidualization, blastocyst growth and development, leukocyte recruitment, embryo transport, trophoblast invasion, and extracellular matrix remodeling during implantation. Deranged PGs syntheses and actions will result in implantation failure. This review summarizes up-to-date literatures on the role of PGs in blastocyst implantation which could provide a broad perspective to guide further research in this field.
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Linharattanaruksa P, Srisuwatanasagul S, Ponglowhapan S, Khalid M, Chatdarong K. Collagen and glycosaminoglycan profiles in the canine cervix during different stages of the estrous cycle and in open- and closed-cervix pyometra. J Vet Med Sci 2013; 76:197-203. [PMID: 24152876 PMCID: PMC3982811 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.13-0114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix of the cervix that comprises collagen, elastin, proteoglycans
and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) is thought to have an essential role in cervical relaxation.
This study investigated the proportion of collagen and smooth muscle as well as the GAGs
in cervices obtained from healthy bitches at different stages of the estrous cycle and
bitches with open- and closed-cervix pyometra. Cervices were collected after
ovariohysterectomy. The proportion of collagen to smooth muscle was determined using
Masson’s trichrome staining. Alcian blue staining was used to evaluate the relative
distribution of cervical GAGs. The proportion of cervical collagen relative to smooth
muscle was higher at estrus compared to anestrus (P≤0.05). It was also
higher (P≤0.05) in bitches with open- compared to those with
closed-cervix pyometra. Overall, hyaluronan (HA) was the predominant GAG in the canine
cervix. In the luminal epithelium, the staining intensity for HA was stronger in estrus
than in anestrus (P≤0.05), but not in diestrus
(P>0.05). On the contrary, the intensity for the combined keratan
sulfate (KS) and heparan sulfate (HS) was stronger in anestrus than in estrus and diestrus
(P≤0.05). In bitches with pyometra, the staining intensity of the
stroma for KS and HS was weaker in open- compared to closed-cervix pyometra
(P≤0.05). Collectively, the different profiles of collagen and GAG
suggest that the metabolism of both collagen and GAGs in the canine cervix is associated
with hormonal statuses during the estrous cycle and cervical patency of bitches with
pathological uterine conditions, such as pyometra.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pichanun Linharattanaruksa
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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Abstract
This review brings together research findings on cervical relaxation in the ewe and its pharmacological stimulation for enhancement of the penetration needed for transcervical insemination and embryo transfer. On the basis that the success of artificial insemination is the percentage of ewes lambing, a review is made of recent research aimed at understanding and minimising the sub-lethal effects of freezing and thawing on the viability of spermatozoa, their membrane integrity and their ability to migrate through cervical mucus, as these characteristics have a major influence on fertility, particularly when semen is deposited, artificially, in the os cervix. Milestones of achievement are given for transcervical intrauterine insemination, embryo recovery and transfer and the birth of lambs of pre-determined sex, firstly following intracytoplasmic sperm injection, then laparoscopic intrauterine insemination using highly diluted flow-cytometrically sorted fresh semen and subsequently by os cervix insemination using sexed semen that had been frozen and thawed. Diversity of research endeavour (applied, cellular, molecular), research discipline (anatomy, histology, immunology, endocrinology) and research focus (cell, tissue, organ, whole animal) is embraced within the review as each has significant contributions to make in advancing recent scientific findings from the laboratory into robust on-farm transcervical insemination and embryo transfer techniques.
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Cervical expression of hyaluronan synthases varies with the stage of the estrous cycle in the ewe. Theriogenology 2012; 77:1100-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2011] [Revised: 09/29/2011] [Accepted: 10/08/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Kershaw-Young CM, Evans G, Maxwell WMC. Glycosaminoglycans in the accessory sex glands, testes and seminal plasma of alpaca and ram. Reprod Fertil Dev 2012; 24:362-9. [DOI: 10.1071/rd11152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2011] [Accepted: 08/02/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The viscous nature of alpaca semen limits its use in cryopreservation and other assisted reproductive technologies. The cause and source of this viscosity is unknown although it has been postulated, but never proven, that glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) secreted by the bulbourethral gland are responsible. The present study investigated the concentration and composition of GAGs in alpaca seminal plasma, testes, bulbourethral gland and prostate gland and compared them to those in the ram to determine the relationship between seminal plasma GAGs and viscosity and to identify the source of seminal plasma GAGs. Alpaca seminal plasma contained more GAGs than ram (P < 0.001) and the predominant GAG, keratan sulfate, was correlated with viscosity (P = 0.05, R2 = 0.2635). The alpaca bulbourethral gland contained most GAGs compared with prostate or testis (P < 0.001). In the ram, the prostate contained most GAGs. These findings suggest that GAGs, particularly keratan sulfate, may be the cause of seminal plasma viscosity in alpacas, and that the seminal plasma GAGs originate from the bulbourethral gland.
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Ponglowhapan S, Church DB, Khalid M. Effect of the gonadal status and the gender on glycosaminoglycans profile in the lower urinary tract of dogs. Theriogenology 2011; 76:1284-92. [PMID: 21777968 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.05.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2011] [Revised: 05/12/2011] [Accepted: 05/13/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) form a functional component of connective tissues that affect the structural and functional integrity of the lower urinary tract (LUT). The specific GAGs of physiological relevance are both nonsulfated (hyaluronan) and sulfated GAGs (chondroitin sulphate [CS], dermatan sulphate [DS], keratan sulphate [KS], and heparan sulphate [HS]). As GAG composition in the LUT is hormonally regulated, we postulated that gonadectomy-induced endocrine imbalance alters the profile of GAGs in the canine LUT. Four regions of the LUT (body and neck of the bladder as well as the proximal and distal urethra) from 20 clinically healthy dogs (5 intact males, 5 intact anoestrus females, 4 castrated males, and 6 spayed females) were collected, wax-embedded and sectioned. Alcian blue staining at critical electrolyte concentrations was performed on the sections to determine total GAGs, hyaluronan, total sulfated GAGs, combined components of CS and DS, as well as KS and HS. The amount of staining was evaluated in 3 tissue layers, i.e., epithelium, subepithelial stroma and muscle within a region. Overall, hyaluronan (67.1%) was the predominant GAG in the LUT. Among sulfated GAGs, a combined component of KS and HS was found to be 61.8% and 38.2% for CS and DS. Gonadal status significantly affected GAG profiles in the LUT (P < 0.01). All GAG components were lower (P < 0.05) in body of the bladder of gonadectomized dogs. Total sulfated GAGs and a combined component of KS and HS were lower (P < 0.05) in all 4 regions of gonadectomized dogs. Except for a combined component of CS and DS, decreases in all GAGs were found more consistently in the muscle compared to other tissue layers. Differences between genders became obvious only when considered along with the effect of gonadal status. In gonadectomized dogs, changes in GAG components in the LUT were more consistent in females compared to males; this may partly explain different levels of risk in the development of urinary incontinence between genders. Quantitative differences in GAG profiles found between intact and gonadectomized dogs indicate a potential role of gonadectomy-induced endocrine imbalance in modifying GAG composition in the canine LUT. Profound alteration in the pattern of GAGs in gonadectomized dogs may compromise structural and functional integrity of the LUT and is possibly involved in the underlying mechanism of urinary incontinence post neutering.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Ponglowhapan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Rodríguez-Piñón M, Tasende C, Garófalo EG. Expression of genes for oestrogen and progesterone receptors in the cervix of anoestrous ewes treated with gonadotrophin releasing hormone with or without progesterone priming. Anim Reprod Sci 2011; 126:50-6. [PMID: 21601386 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2011.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2010] [Revised: 03/30/2011] [Accepted: 04/14/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The aim was to determine the oestrogens receptor alpha (ERα) mRNA and the binding capacity of oestrogens (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) in the cervix of anoestrous ewes treated with gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) with or without progesterone (P) priming, at the expected time of induced ovulation and early luteal phase. In Experiment 1, ewes were treated with P for 10 days (n=4), with nine micro-doses of GnRH followed by a GnRH bolus injection (n=4), or with P plus GnRH treatments (n=3), and tissues were harvested either without treatment (n=4), when P was removed, or 24h after the GnRH bolus injection. In Experiment 2, ewes were treated with the same GnRH or P plus GnRH treatments and tissues were harvested on Day 1 (n=12) or Day 5 (n=10) after the GnRH bolus injection. In the cranial cervix, the P treatment decreased and the GnRH treatment (after P treatment) increased the ERα mRNA, ER and PR concentrations (P<0.002). The ERα mRNA and ER concentrations were greater on Day 1, than on Day 5 in P plus GnRH treated ewes (P<0.0005). In the caudal cervix, lesser ERα mRNA, ER and PR concentrations than cranial cervix were found (P<0.0001). In conclusion, the ERα transcriptional activity and ER and PR binding capacity were strongly influenced by P and/or GnRH treatments in the cranial cervix, while the steroid receptors binding capacity remained unchanged in the caudal cervix of anoestrous ewes at the expected time of induced ovulation and early luteal phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Rodríguez-Piñón
- Biochemistry, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Veterinary, Montevideo, Uruguay.
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27
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Kunkitti P, Srisuwatanasagul S, Chatdarong K. Distribution of estrogen receptor alpha and progesterone receptor, and leukocyte infiltration in the cervix of cyclic bitches and those with pyometra. Theriogenology 2010; 75:979-87. [PMID: 21196032 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2009] [Revised: 11/01/2010] [Accepted: 11/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The objectives were to localize estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and progesterone receptor (PR), and enumerate leukocyte infiltration in cervical tissue of normal bitches during various stages of the estrous cycle (n = 35), as well as in those developing open (n = 22) or closed-cervix pyometra (n = 19). Each pyometra group was subdivided into anestrus and diestrus. Cervical tissues were collected after ovariohysterectomy. Receptor expressions were determined by immunohistochemistry and leukocyte infiltration was evaluated in histological sections stained with haematoxylin-eosin. The assessment was performed in two parts of cervical sections: the uterine part in four tissue layers (surface epithelium (SE), lamina propria (LP), glandular epithelium (GE), and tunica muscularis (M)), and the vaginal part in three layers (SE, LP and M). An immunohistochemical total score consisted of the addition of both the intensity and proportional scores. The ERα and PR scores differed between groups (P < 0.05) and between layers (P < 0.05), but were not significantly different between uterine and vaginal parts. The ERα score was lowest in the open-cervix pyometra bitches at anestrus and in closed-cervix pyometra bitches at diestrus. For all types of immune cells, there were no significant differences among stages of the estrous cycle in normal bitches, whereas neutrophils were lower in both sub-groups of closed-cervix versus open-cervix pyometra (P < 0.05). In conclusion, distributions of ERα and PR were similar along the longitudinal axis of the canine cervix. We inferred that cervical dilation in normal bitches and bitches with uterine pathology was likely controlled by different mechanisms. Receptor expressions were influenced by stage of the estrous cycle in normal bitches, whereas neutrophil infiltration in cervical tissue appeared to be involved in cervical dilation in bitches with pyometra, regardless of estrous stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panisara Kunkitti
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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Ponglowhapan S, Church D, Khalid M. Expression of prostaglandin E2 receptor subtypes in the canine lower urinary tract varies according to the gonadal status and gender. Theriogenology 2010; 74:1450-66. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2010] [Revised: 06/14/2010] [Accepted: 06/14/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Horta AEM, Barbas JP, Marques CC, Baptista MC, Vasques MI, Pereira RM, Mascarenhas RD, Cavaco-Gonçalves S. Improvement of Fertility in Artificially Inseminated Ewes Following Vaginal Treatment with Misoprostol Plus Terbutaline Sulphate. Reprod Domest Anim 2010; 45:e412-6. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2010.01591.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Intra-cervical application of Misoprostol at estrus alters the content of cervical hyaluronan and the mRNA expression of follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR), luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR) and cyclooxygenase-2 in the ewe. Theriogenology 2010; 73:1257-66. [PMID: 20171717 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2009.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2009] [Revised: 12/23/2009] [Accepted: 12/27/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The complex anatomy the of ovine cervix limits the success of transcervical artificial insemination in sheep, but Misoprostol (a PGE(1) analogue) relaxes the cervix and facilitates transcervical artificial insemination. However, the mechanism by which Misoprostol causes cervical relaxation is not known. This study examined if intra-cervical Misoprostol altered the hyaluronan content and the mRNA expression of COX-2, LHR, or FSHR in the cervix of the estrus ewe. Estrus was synchronized in cyclic ewes with progestagen pessaries and 48 h after sponge removal ewes were treated intra-cervically with 0 (controls), 200, or 400 microg Misoprostol. Hyaluronan content was determined by ELISA and mRNA expression of LHR, FSHR, and COX-2 was analyzed by in situ hybridization using digoxigenin-11-uridine-5'-triphosphate labeled riboprobes. The hyaluronan content of the cervix was significantly higher in sheep that received 200 (P<0.05) or 400 (P<0.05) microg Misoprostol compared to controls. Moreover, it was significantly (P<0.05) higher in the vaginal region compared to mid and uterine regions. Misoprostol increased (P<0.05) the mRNA expression of LHR and COX-2 but not FSHR. The expression for all three genes was highest in the vaginal region and lowest in uterine region. The luminal epithelium and circular smooth muscle layers had higher (P<0.05) expression for LHR, FSHR, and COX-2 mRNAs, and the sub-epithelial stroma had the lowest (P<0.05). We propose that the intra-cervical application of Misoprostol induces the mRNA expression of LHR, FSHR, and COX-2 through a positive feedback loop. The data suggest that softening of the cervix by Misoprostol is caused by an increase in the hyaluronan content of the cervix.
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Kershaw-Young CM, Scaramuzzi RJ, McGowan MR, Pitsillides AA, Wheeler-Jones CPD, Khalid M. The effect of estradiol on COX-2, EP2, and EP4 mRNA expression and the extracellular matrix in the cervix of the hypogonadotrophic, ovariectomized ewe. Theriogenology 2009; 73:620-8. [PMID: 20031195 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2009.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2009] [Revised: 10/29/2009] [Accepted: 10/31/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
There is a degree of cervical relaxation in the ewe at estrus that is regulated by changes in prostaglandin synthesis, prostaglandin receptor expression, and changes in the cervical extracellular matrix. It is likely that these are regulated by changes in periovulatory hormones, particularly estradiol. This study determined the effect of estradiol benzoate on the mRNA expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and the prostaglandin E receptors EP(2) and EP(4), the concentration of cervical hyaluronan, and the proportion of smooth muscle and collagen in the cervix of the hypogonadotrophic ovariectomized ewe (Ovis aries). Ovariectomized hypogonadotrophic ewes were given 100 microg estradiol benzoate, and their cervices were collected 0, 24, and 48 h thereafter to determine the expression of cervical COX-2, EP(2), and EP(4) mRNA by in situ hybridization, the concentration of hyaluronan by ELISA, and the proportion of smooth muscle and collagen by Masson's trichrome staining. Estradiol benzoate increased the mRNA expression of COX-2 and EP(4) within 24h after treatment (P<0.05), whereas EP(2) mRNA, hyaluronan, and the ratio of smooth muscle to collagen did not change within 48 h after treatment. The COX-2, EP(2), and EP(4) mRNA expression were greatest in the smooth muscle layers (P<0.05) and least in the luminal epithelium (P<0.05). In conclusion, we inferred that estradiol regulates cervical COX-2 and EP(4) mRNA expression and may regulate cervical relaxation via the synthesis of prostaglandin E(2) and activation of the PGE(2) receptors EP(2) and EP(4).
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Kershaw-Young
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom.
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