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Sharif B, Hassan M, Arshad U, Tahir MZ, Ahmad E, Khan MI, Shahzad M, Mohsin I, Sosa F, Rehman A. Effect of eCG dose on ovarian haemodynamics, hormonal profiles and prolificacy rate when oestrus was induced during low-breeding season in Beetal goats. Reprod Domest Anim 2023; 58:48-59. [PMID: 36102495 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The objectives of the experiment were to determine the effect of two doses of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) in a standard synchronization protocol based on a short-term progesterone (P4 ) priming on ovarian structures and haemodynamics, concentrations of steroid hormones and prolificacy rate when oestrus was induced during low-breeding season (LBS) in Beetal dairy goats. We hypothesized that inclusion of eCG in a short-term P4 priming-based synchronization protocol would increase the blood perfusion to ovarian structures leading to enhance oestrous and ovulatory responses and prolificacy rate in goats. Forty-two multiparous acyclic goats were blocked by body condition and, within block, assigned randomly to receive saline as control (CON), low eCG (L-eCG; 300 IU) or high eCG (H-eCG; 600 IU) dose. Initially, a controlled internal drug release (CIDR) device was placed in the anterior vagina on d -8, followed by removal of CIDR on d -3, concurrent with the administration of PGF2α and eCG according to their respective treatments. Goats were monitored for oestrous response. B-mode and Doppler ultrasonography was performed with 12-h interval, starting from day -3 until natural breeding (day 0), and then on days 5, 10, 15 and 20 post-breeding to monitor follicular and luteal dynamics and blood flow, respectively. Blood was sampled at 0, 12, 24, 36 and 60 h after CIDR removal to quantify plasma concentrations of estradiol-17β (E2 ), whereas plasma concentrations of P4 were assayed at days 5, 10, 15 and 20 after breeding. Pregnancy and prolificacy rates were determined at day 30 and 150 after breeding, respectively. Data were analysed with mixed-effects models, and orthogonal contrasts were used to evaluate the effect of treatment [Con vs. (½ L-eCG + ½ H-eCG)] and dose of eCG (L-eCG vs. H-eCG). Data are presented in sequence as CON, L-eCG, H-eCG (LSM ± SEM). The oestrous intensity score (152.9 vs. 182.7 vs. 186.5 ± 15.1; p = .02) was greater in eCG-treated goats as compared to CON. Administration of eCG reduced the intervals to standing oestrus (66.2 vs. 41.8 vs. 48.9 h ± 5.5; p = .05), breeding (70.2 vs. 44.4 vs. 45.4 h ± 4.5; p = .03) and ovulation (84.5 vs. 61.2 vs. 63.4 h ± 6.2; p = .05) compared with CON goats. The mean growth rate of pre-ovulatory follicle was greater (1.11 vs. 1.49 vs. 1.45 mm ± 0.08; p = .01) in eCG-treated goats resulting in an increased diameter of pre-ovulatory follicle (6.27 vs. 7.20 vs. 7.31 mm ± 0.07; p < .01) and corpora lutea (6.75 vs. 8.26 vs. 8.07 mm ± 0.42; p = .04) than CON. The mean follicular blood flow did not differ among treatments; however, the mean luteal blood flow was greater in L-eCG-treated goats (0.81 vs. 1.61 vs. 1.07 cm2 ± 0.12; p = .001). The mean concentrations of E2 (4.03 vs. 5.21 vs. 4.78 pg/ml ± 0.42; p = .04) and P4 (4.85 vs. 6.39 vs. 6.22 ng/ml ± 0.34; p = .04) were greater in eCG-treated goats. The twinning rate did not differ between treatments; nevertheless, prolificacy rate was greater (p = .04) in L-eCG-treated goats. Collectively, our data suggest that the administration of eCG improves the induction of oestrous and ovarian dynamics. Administration of L-eCG enhances prolificacy rate, therefore, a low dose of eCG might be practically beneficial to improve reproduction during LBS in acyclic Beetal dairy goats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babar Sharif
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Mubbashar Hassan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Jhang, Pakistan
| | - Usman Arshad
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan.,Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Muhammad Z Tahir
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Ejaz Ahmad
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad I Khan
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Shahzad
- Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Imran Mohsin
- Department of Livestock Production, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Froylan Sosa
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Abdul Rehman
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
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Effect of Body Condition Score, Treatment Period and Month of the Previous Lambing on the Reproductive Resumption of Melatonin-Treated Sarda Breed Sheep during Spring. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11071898. [PMID: 34202313 PMCID: PMC8300218 DOI: 10.3390/ani11071898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Improving reproductive efficiency in sheep farms is a crucial task for researchers. Therefore, the present research considers the conditions commonly found in Sarda sheep farms and evaluates the effects on reproductive activity via the following factors: exogenous melatonin treatment through subcutaneous implants, different periods of melatonin treatment, varying body condition scores (BCS) and the previous lambing of the treated ewes. The results of the present research suggest that melatonin treatment is able to reliably enhance reproductive efficiency. Furthermore, the findings indicate that optimal reproductive efficiency can be achieved by ensuring that melatonin is administered in April to ewes that have a BCS of >2.5 and have passed their third month of lactation. Abstract Stakeholders place great emphasis upon rationalizing the management and rearing techniques which are utilized within sheep farms. The present study aimed to investigate factors which may improve the reproductive performance of melatonin-treated Sardinian sheep via a series of three trials. The first trial (n = 100) investigated the effect of melatonin treatment alongside body condition score (BCS), the second trial (n = 150) investigated the effect of treatment alongside the date of treatment (treatment period) and the third trial (n = 150) investigated the effect of treatment alongside the previous lambing of the ewes. The findings indicated that melatonin is an effective tool for anticipating and improving the reproductive activity of in Sarda breed sheep during the springtime. Furthermore, to obtain optional results, melatonin implantation should be conducted in April, in ewes that have a BCS of >2.5 and that have passed their third month of lactation.
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Exogenous Melatonin Improves the Reproductive Outcomes of Yearling Iberian Red Deer ( Cervus elaphus hispanicus) Hinds. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11010224. [PMID: 33477633 PMCID: PMC7831485 DOI: 10.3390/ani11010224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Increasing the reproductive performance of hinds is considered to be a key factor of overall farm deer productivity. In the case of yearling hinds, this aspect becomes more important, as a delay in the pubertal onset will compromise the reproductive performance of the entire herd (decreased fertility), and these yearling hinds will carry this ‘late’ condition throughout their reproductive life. The aim of this study was to explore the use of melatonin implants on yearling Iberian red deer (Cervus elaphus hispanicus) hinds to improve their fertility outcomes, advance the calving date and the calves’ weight, and to prevent the negative impact of yearling hinds’ low liveweight on their reproductive outcomes. Melatonin implants (18 mg), administered three-fold (two implants each time) every 30 days before the breeding season, rendered significantly higher fertility rates (regardless of the yearling hind’s weight) and heavier calves, and advanced the calving date in the yearling hinds by 15 days compared to non-treated hinds. In addition, halving the number of yearling hinds that received melatonin provided a similar benefit to a large-scale treatment of the whole herd, which indicates female-to-female stimulation of the ovarian activity. Taken together, this protocol for melatonin treatment simplifies its administration, reduces its costs, and assures the enhancement of the reproductive productivity of the entire farm. Abstract The aim of this study was to assess the effect of melatonin implants on the reproductive performance of yearling Iberian red deer (Cervus elaphus hispanicus) hinds. It also explored exogenous melatonin administration as a tool to minimize the negative effect of a low yearling hind’s liveweight on their reproductive efficiency. In addition, the effect of melatonin-treated yearling hinds on non-treated hinds was studied in order to provide a practical and economical protocol to improve farms’ productivity. A total of 4520 Iberian red deer hinds belonging to the same farm were included in this study. Melatonin (108 mg/hind) implants were administered three-fold every 30 days before the breeding season. Fertility rates, calves’ weights and calving dates were registered for each hind. The results showed that exogenous melatonin increased significantly (p < 0.05) the calves’ weight (32.39 ± 1.07 kg vs. 27.65 ± 1.11 kg for Weight 1calf (July) and 46.59 ± 1.50 kg vs. 41.79 ± 1.54 kg for Weight 2calf (August, at weaning)) and advanced the calving date by 15 days in yearling hinds compared to the non-treated group. In addition, the administration of melatonin implants before the breeding season was able to minimize the negative effect of low yearling hinds’ liveweight (Weight 1hind) on their future reproductive outcomes, as the fertility rates increased by 46% and the calves’ weight increased by 7 kg after the melatonin treatment, regardless of the yearlings’ weight. Finally, when both experimental groups (melatonin and non-treated) were kept separate, higher fertility rates (76.73 ± 7.18% vs. 66.94 ± 7.41%) were observed for the melatonin-treated hinds compared to the non-treated hinds. However, when both groups of yearling hinds were maintained together, no significant differences were observed in their fertility outcomes (78.13 ± 21.26% vs. 78.12 ± 23.32%). Therefore, melatonin implants may be used in yearling Iberian red deer hinds as a management tool to improve their reproductive productivity.
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Single melatonin treatment improves reproductive performance of Singharey goats during non-breeding season under sub-tropical condition of North East India. Small Rumin Res 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2020.106232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Pool KR, Rickard JP, de Graaf SP. Overcoming neuroendocrine and metabolic barriers to puberty: the role of melatonin in advancing puberty in ewe lambs. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2020; 72:106457. [PMID: 32361422 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2020.106457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Pubertal onset in the ewe is subject to a multitude of physiological and environmental constraints. As seasonal breeders, sheep rely on decreasing photoperiod to enter puberty and the subsequent breeding periods, hindering production. The initiation of puberty defines the reproductive yield of the ewe, and as such is a critical factor influencing production outcomes. Currently, the misconception that ovine puberty is reliant on age results in ewes being bred at over a year old, leading to a substantial unproductive period between birth and first conception. As such, transcending pubertal barriers to allow for earlier initiation of reproductive competency has significant commercial merit. The primary candidate to achieve this is the neurohormone melatonin, a key factor that naturally signals photoperiodic change that facilitates seasonal remodeling of the ovine hypothalamic-hypophyseal-gonadal axis. Despite being known to modulate reproductive seasonality in both the mature ewe and ram, the ability of melatonin to advance ewe puberty remains underutilized in industry. To optimize melatonin application and shape perceptions of breeding ewe lambs, a greater understanding of pubertal impediments and the natural role of melatonin is warranted. This review examines the physiological role and applications of melatonin to advance ewe puberty, and how this may act in conjunction with other physiological and metabolic cues.
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Affiliation(s)
- K R Pool
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.
| | - J P Rickard
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - S P de Graaf
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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Bouroutzika E, Kouretas D, Papadopoulos S, Veskoukis AS, Theodosiadou E, Makri S, Paliouras C, Michailidis ML, Caroprese M, Valasi I. Effects of Melatonin Administration to Pregnant Ewes under Heat-Stress Conditions, in Redox Status and Reproductive Outcome. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9030266. [PMID: 32210209 PMCID: PMC7139596 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9030266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Heat stress is a known promoter of reactive oxygen species generation, which may compromise pregnancy and foetal development. Melatonin is a pleiotropic molecule that regulates various processes including pregnancy. Thus, it could be used to ameliorate the redox status of pregnant heat-stressed ewes and the outcome of their pregnancy. Sixty-eight ewes participated in the study, which were allocated into two equal groups, i.e., Melatonin (M) and Control (C) group. All ewes were exposed to heat stress from D0 to D120. In both groups, after oestrus synchronization of ewes, rams were introduced to them for mating (D16). In M group, starting with sponges’ insertion (D0), melatonin implants were administered four-fold every 40 days. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed by means of ultrasonography. Daily evaluation of temperature humidity index (THI), rectal temperature, and breathing rate were performed throughout the study. Blood samples were collected repeatedly from D0 until weaning for assaying redox biomarkers. Milk yield was measured thrice during puerperium. The results showed that melatonin administration throughout pregnancy improved the redox status of heat-stressed ewes and increased the mean number and bodyweight of lambs born per ewe, as well as the milk production. Therefore, melatonin may be used as antioxidant regimen in heat-stressed ewes for improving their reproductive traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efterpi Bouroutzika
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (E.B.); (E.T.); (C.P.); (M.-L.M.)
| | - Dimitrios Kouretas
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Viopolis, Mezourlo, 41500 Larissa, Greece; (D.K.); (A.S.V.); (S.M.)
| | - Serafeim Papadopoulos
- Department of Ichthyology and Aquatic Environment, University of Thessaly, Fytokou str., 38446 Volos, Greece;
| | - Aristidis S. Veskoukis
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Viopolis, Mezourlo, 41500 Larissa, Greece; (D.K.); (A.S.V.); (S.M.)
| | - Ekaterini Theodosiadou
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (E.B.); (E.T.); (C.P.); (M.-L.M.)
| | - Sotiria Makri
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Viopolis, Mezourlo, 41500 Larissa, Greece; (D.K.); (A.S.V.); (S.M.)
| | - Charilaos Paliouras
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (E.B.); (E.T.); (C.P.); (M.-L.M.)
| | | | - Mariangela Caroprese
- Department of Sciences of Agriculture, Food and Environment (SAFE), University of Foggia, Via Napoli 25, 71122 Foggia, Italy;
| | - Irene Valasi
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (E.B.); (E.T.); (C.P.); (M.-L.M.)
- Correspondence:
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Robertson SM, Atkinson T, Friend MA, Allworth MB, Refshauge G. Reproductive performance in goats and causes of perinatal mortality: a review. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2020. [DOI: 10.1071/an20161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Goat meat production is an expanding industry in Australia. However, there is limited data quantifying the levels of reproductive performance, particularly under extensively grazed rangeland conditions, which would inform interventions to improve performance. This review aimed to quantify the levels of reproduction, time and causes of reproductive wastage in goats. It considers the levels of fertility, fecundity, embryonic loss, fetal loss and post-natal survival reported under Australian conditions, and comparisons are made with international reports. Key management factors that may contribute to reproductive performance include breed, seasonality, nutritional conditions, and weather conditions at kidding. While goats are potentially prolific breeders, in Australia, the variation in weaning rate (kids/doe joined) among properties is large (51–165%), although the causes of this variation are not well defined. Generally, conception and kidding rates are high, although fetal loss associated with undernutrition is more likely in goats than sheep. As with sheep, perinatal losses are generally the largest source of wastage, with an average 20% kid mortality, but this level is influenced by litter size and appears to be higher under extensive rangeland systems. The causes of perinatal kid loss under Australian conditions are similar to those in sheep, with starvation–mismothering–exposure and dystocia or stillbirth the key causes. Studies are needed to accurately quantify the level and causes of reproductive wastage in commercial herds, including a range of management situations, to enable effective interventions to be developed.
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Song Y, Wu H, Wang X, Haire A, Zhang X, Zhang J, Wu Y, Lian Z, Fu J, Liu G, Wusiman A. Melatonin improves the efficiency of super-ovulation and timed artificial insemination in sheep. PeerJ 2019; 7:e6750. [PMID: 31086729 PMCID: PMC6487178 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.6750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been well proved that melatonin participates in the regulation of the seasonal reproduction of ewes. However, the effects of short term treatment of melatonin on ewe's ovulation are still to be clarified. In this study, the effects of melatonin on the number of embryos harvested from superovulation, and the pregnant rate in recipients after embryo transferred have been investigated. Hu sheep with synchronous estrus treatment were given melatonin subcutaneously injection (0, 5, and 10 mg/ewe, respectively). It was found that the estrogen level in the group of 5 mg melatonin was significantly higher than that of other two groups at the time of sperm insemination (p < 0.05). The pregnant rate and number of lambs in the group of 5 mg melatonin treatment was also significantly higher than that of the rests of the groups (P < 0.05). In another study, 31 Suffolk ewes as donors and 103 small-tailed han sheep ewes as recipients were used to produce pronuclear embryo and embryo transfer. Melatonin (5 mg) was given to the donors during estrus. The results showed that, the number of pronuclear embryos and the pregnancy rate were also significantly higher in melatonin group than that in the control group. In addition, 28 donors and 44 recipient ewes were used to produce morula/blastocyst and embryo transferring. Melatonin (5 mg) was given during estrus. The total number of embryos harvested (7.40 ± 1.25/ewe vs. 3.96 ± 0.73/ewe, P < 0.05) and the pregnant rate (72.3 ± 4.6% vs. 54.7 ± 4.0%, P < 0.05) and number of lambs were also increased in melatonin group compared to the control group. Collectively, the results have suggested that melatonin treatment 36 hours after CIDR withdrawal could promote the number and quality of embryos in vivo condition and increased the pregnant rate and number of lambs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukun Song
- College of Animal Science, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Hao Wu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Xuguang Wang
- College of Animal Science, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Aerman Haire
- College of Animal Science, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Xiaosheng Zhang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Academy of Agricultural Sciences of Tianjin, Tianjin, Tianjin, China
| | - Jinlong Zhang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Academy of Agricultural Sciences of Tianjin, Tianjin, Tianjin, China
| | - Yingjie Wu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Zhengxing Lian
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Juncai Fu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Guoshi Liu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Abulizi Wusiman
- College of Animal Science, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
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Gallego-Calvo MDL, Gatica MC, Guzmán JL, Zarazaga LA. Effect of body condition and melatonin implants, inserted at different times of the year, on ovarian activity in goats maintained without male contact from the time of implantation. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2019. [DOI: 10.1071/an18046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present work was to asses (1) whether body condition (BC) and (2) melatonin implants, inserted at different times of the year between the winter and summer solstices, have an effect on seasonal ovulatory activity in goats without presence of males. Sixty-six Blanca Andaluza does were divided into six groups. Five of these received a melatonin implant on either 18 December (n = 10), 3 February (n = 12), 19 March (n = 12), 30 April (n = 11) or 11 June (n = 11). Following this procedure, the does were completely isolated from bucks. Another 10 goats (YEAR group) were used to monitor natural annual ovarian activity; these females were completely isolated from males over the entire experimental period (from 18 December of one year until 17 December of the next year). Half the does of each group had a low body condition score (BC; ≤2.50; 2.46 ± 0.02), and half had a high BC (≥3.00; 3.24 ± 0.04). Ovulatory activity was monitored via the progesterone concentrations determined in blood samples collected twice per week for 4 months following melatonin implantation, and over 12 months for the YEAR group. Over 46% of the females showed ovarian activity after the melatonin treatment, ranging from the lowest response in December (30%) and the highest one in February (75%) without differences between the dates of melatonin insertion (P > 0.05). However, the response to the melatonin implant was higher in the females with a high BC than in females with a low BC (63% vs 31% for high and of low BC respectively, P < 0.05). The present results indicated that melatonin implants induce ovarian activity in does in the absence of male contact. The moment of melatonin implantation did not modify ovulatory activity. However, the ovulatory response to melatonin implants was higher in the females with a BC of ≥3.00.
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Golher DM, Kumaresan A, Saraf KK, Chhillar S, Nayak S, Tripathi UK, Bhaskar CN, Lathwal SS, Mohanty TK. Influence of season and climatic variables on testicular cytology, semen quality and melatonin concentrations in crossbred bucks reared under subtropical climate. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2018; 62:1709-1719. [PMID: 29881903 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-018-1571-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Revised: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Seasonality in reproduction and effects of climatic variables on testicular cytology and semen quality in bucks reared under subtropical climatic conditions were not well understood. In the present study, using testicular cytology, semen evaluation and melatonin concentrations assessed over a period of 1 year, we report that bucks reared under subtropical climatic conditions did not show seasonality in reproduction. Climatic variables including temperature, relative humidity, temperature-humidity index (THI), sunshine hours and day length were recorded daily during the whole period of experimentation (one complete year). Ejaculates were collected from crossbred (Alpine X Beetal) males (n = 6) biweekly using artificial vagina, and semen quality (volume, mass activity, sperm concentration, motility, viability, membrane integrity and protamine deficiency) was assessed. To understand the seasonal influence at testicular level, using fine needle aspiration biopsy method, testicular cells were aspirated and different types of cells and testicular cytology indices were quantified. Blood was collected biweekly for estimation of melatonin concentrations. Mass activity was higher (P < 0.05) during rainy season while individual sperm motility and sperm concentration were higher (P < 0.05) during rainy and autumn seasons as compared to other seasons. Sperm functional parameters did not show any differences during different seasons. Sertoli cell count, spermatogenic cell count and testicular indices did not differ among the seasons. Melatonin concentrations also did not differ significantly among the four seasons studied. Among the climatic parameters, THI had significant (P < 0.05) influence on sperm quality. The proportion of Sertoli cell in the testicular cytology had a significant and positive relationship with RH, THI and day length. It was concluded that seasonal variations are less evident in terms of spermatogenesis and semen quality in Alpine X Beetal crossbred bucks reared under subtropical climatic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Durgesh Murhari Golher
- Theriogenology Lab, Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology & Obstetrics, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, 132001, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Arumugam Kumaresan
- Theriogenology Lab, Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology & Obstetrics, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, 132001, Karnal, Haryana, India.
- Theriogenology Lab, Southern Regional Station of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Adugodi, Bengaluru, Karnataka, 560030, India.
| | - Kaustubh Kishor Saraf
- Theriogenology Lab, Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology & Obstetrics, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, 132001, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Shivani Chhillar
- Theriogenology Lab, Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology & Obstetrics, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, 132001, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Samiksha Nayak
- Theriogenology Lab, Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology & Obstetrics, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, 132001, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Utkarsh K Tripathi
- Theriogenology Lab, Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology & Obstetrics, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, 132001, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Chavan Nitin Bhaskar
- Theriogenology Lab, Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology & Obstetrics, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, 132001, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Surender Singh Lathwal
- Livestock Research Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, 132001, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Tushar Kumar Mohanty
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana, 132001, India
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Swelum AAA, Saadeldin IM, Ba-Awadh H, Alowaimer AN. Shortened daily photoperiod during the non-breeding season can improve the reproductive performance of camel bulls (Camelus dromedarius). Anim Reprod Sci 2018; 195:334-344. [PMID: 29960658 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2018.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2018] [Revised: 06/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The effects of a shortened photoperiod on the reproductive performance and hormones of mature dromedary camel bulls (Camelus dromedarius) were evaluated. A group of 6 bulls were blindfolded to induce a daily photoperiod that was ∼2.55 h shorter than the natural day length (10.83L:13.17D), whereas 6 others served as the control group. The trial started in June and continued for 10 weeks during the non-breeding season. The reproductive performance of all animals was evaluated weekly during this time and also during the breeding season, starting in December and continuing for 10 weeks. Camel bulls in the treatment group showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in testicular volume, scrotal circumference, sexual desire, reaction time, and mating ability scores, and serum melatonin and testosterone concentrations, relative to the control group, during the non-breeding season. In addition, sexual desire and reaction time and mating ability scores were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the treatment group than in the control during the breeding season. There was no significant difference between the treatment groups in both seasons and the control group in the breeding season regarding semen volume, sperm cell concentration, total motility, progressive motility, plasma membrane integrity, and viability. Shortening the daily photoperiod by blindfolding can improve the reproductive performance of dromedary camel bulls during the non-breeding season and the following breeding season. This simple, inexpensive, and easily applicable method can enable breeders to collect semen of acceptable quality during the non-breeding season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayman Abdel-Aziz Swelum
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2460, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia; Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, 44519, Egypt.
| | - Islam M Saadeldin
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2460, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, 44519, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Hani Ba-Awadh
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2460, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah N Alowaimer
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2460, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
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Abdel-Aziz Swelum A, Saadeldin IM, Ba-Awadh H, Alowaimer AN. Effects of melatonin implants on the reproductive performance and endocrine function of camel (Camelus dromedarius) bulls during the non-breeding and subsequent breeding seasons. Theriogenology 2018; 119:18-27. [PMID: 29960163 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2018] [Revised: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of melatonin implants on the reproductive performances and hormone levels of dromedary (Camelus dromedarius) bulls during the non-breeding and subsequent breeding seasons. Fourteen mature dromedary bulls were divided into a control group (n = 7) and a group that was implanted with melatonin (n = 7) twice, at the beginning of the study and 35 days later. The trial started on the 17th June and continued for 10 weeks during the non-breeding season. Reproductive performances of animals in the control and melatonin groups were evaluated weekly during the non-breeding season [control non-breeding (CNB) and melatonin non-breeding (MNB) groups, respectively] and evaluated again during the subsequent breeding season [control breeding (CB) and melatonin breeding (MB) groups, respectively], which started on the 6th December and continued for 10 weeks. MNB bulls had greater (P ≤ 0.05) scrotum circumference and testicular volume, sexual desire, reaction time and mating ability scores, and serum melatonin and testosterone concentration values (24.91 ± 0.26 cm, 271.00 ± 7.81 cm3, 2.31 ± 0.13, 2.03 ± 0.22, 2.26 ± 0.09, 23.90 ± 0.05 pg/mL and 2764.51 ± 137.02 pg/mL, respectively) than the CNB group (23.63 ± 0.05 cm, 199.21 ± 3.27 cm3, 1.00 ± 0.00, 0.00 ± 0.00, 1.00 ± 0.00, 9.46 ± 0.08 pg/mL and 1872.41 ± 264.89 pg/mL, respectively). The scrotum and testes, reaction time score, proportion of bulls refusing to mount, and serum melatonin values were significantly higher in MB than CB bulls (P ≤ 0.05). Progressive motility (PM), average pathway velocity, straight-line velocity, curvilinear velocity (VCL), linearity, straightness (STR), wobble, beat cross frequency (BCF), livability, and DNA integrity were significantly higher in MB than CB bulls (P ≤ 0.05). PM, VCL, STR, amplitude of lateral head displacement, BCF, and livability were significantly higher in MNB than CB bulls (P ≤ 0.05). In conclusion, melatonin implants improved the reproductive performance of bulls during the non-breeding and subsequent breeding seasons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayman Abdel-Aziz Swelum
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2460, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, 44519, Egypt.
| | - Islam M Saadeldin
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2460, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, 44519 Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Hani Ba-Awadh
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2460, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah N Alowaimer
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2460, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
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El Allali K, Sghiri A, Bouâouda H, Achaâban MR, Ouzir M, Bothorel B, El Mzibri M, El Abbadi N, Moutaouakkil A, Tibary A, Pévet P. Effect of Melatonin Implants during the Non-Breeding Season on the Onset of Ovarian Activity and the Plasma Prolactin in Dromedary Camel. Front Vet Sci 2018; 5:44. [PMID: 29594158 PMCID: PMC5858023 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2018.00044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
To examine a possible control of reproductive seasonality by melatonin, continual-release subcutaneous melatonin implants were inserted 4.5 months before the natural breeding season (October-April) into female camels (Melatonin-treated group). The animals were exposed to an artificial long photoperiod (16L:8D) for 41 days prior to implant placement to facilitate receptivity to the short-day signal that is expected with melatonin implants. The treated and control groups (untreated females) were maintained separately under outdoor natural conditions. Ovarian follicular development was monitored in both groups by transrectal ultrasonography and by plasma estradiol-17β concentrations performed weekly for 8 weeks and then for 14 weeks following implant insertion. Plasma prolactin concentrations were determined at 45 and 15 days before and 0, 14, 28, 56, and 98 days after implant insertion. Plasma melatonin concentration was determined to validate response to the artificial long photoperiod and to verify the pattern of release from the implants. Results showed that the artificial long photoperiod induced a melatonin secretion peak of significantly (P < 0.05) shorter duration (about 2.5 h). Melatonin release from the implants resulted in higher circulating plasma melatonin levels during daytime and nighttime which persisted for more than 12 weeks following implants insertion. Treatment with melatonin implants advanced the onset of follicular growth activity by 3.5 months compared to untreated animals. Plasma estradiol-17β increased gradually from the second week after the beginning of treatment to reach significantly (P < 0.01) higher concentrations (39.2 ± 6.2 to 46.4 ± 4.5 pg/ml) between the third and the fifth week post insertion of melatonin implants. Treatment with melatonin implants also induced a moderate, but significant (P < 0.05) suppressive effect on plasma prolactin concentration on the 28th day. These results demonstrate that photoperiod appears to be involved in dromedary reproductive seasonality. Melatonin implants may be a useful tool to manipulate seasonality and to improve reproductive performance in this species. Administration of subcutaneous melatonin implants during the transition period to the breeding season following an artificial signal of long photoperiod have the potential to advance the breeding season in camels by about 2.5 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid El Allali
- Comparative Anatomy Unit/URAC49, Department of Biological and Pharmaceutical Veterinary Sciences, Hassan II Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine Institute, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Abdelmalek Sghiri
- Animal Reproduction Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Reproduction, Hassan II Agronomy and Veterinary Institute, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Hanan Bouâouda
- Harvard Medical School and Veterans Administration Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Mohamed Rachid Achaâban
- Comparative Anatomy Unit/URAC49, Department of Biological and Pharmaceutical Veterinary Sciences, Hassan II Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine Institute, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Mounir Ouzir
- Group of Research in Physiology and Physiopathology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University Mohammed V, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Béatrice Bothorel
- Neurobiology of Rhythms UPR 3212 CNRS, Institute for Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Mohammed El Mzibri
- Biotechnology and Engineering of Biomolecules Unit, National Center of Energy, Science and Nuclear Techniques, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Najia El Abbadi
- Biotechnology and Engineering of Biomolecules Unit, National Center of Energy, Science and Nuclear Techniques, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Adnane Moutaouakkil
- Biotechnology and Engineering of Biomolecules Unit, National Center of Energy, Science and Nuclear Techniques, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Ahmed Tibary
- Comparative Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Clinical Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Centre for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Paul Pévet
- Neurobiology of Rhythms UPR 3212 CNRS, Institute for Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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El-Mokadem M, El-Din AN, Ramadan T, Rashad A, Taha T, Samak M. Manipulation of reproductive seasonality using melatonin implantation in Anglo-Nubian does treated with controlled internal drug release and equine chorionic gonadotropin during the nonbreeding season. J Dairy Sci 2017; 100:5028-5039. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2016-12240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Singh AK, Haldar C. Supplementation of corn seed with regular diet modulates immune function and antioxidant status in Capra hircus. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2017; 101:1205-1214. [PMID: 28133830 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.12641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin modulates the functional activation of antioxidative enzymes to maintain the oxidant-antioxidant balance in the physiological system. Melatonin administration via subcutaneous injection increases endogenous melatonin concentration that has been used to modulate the immune function in rodents and reproductive activity in small ruminant like goats. However, to date, no report exist which could suggest the effect of corn seed supplementation on the endogenous melatonin concentration and its impact on cellular-immune function and antioxidative enzymes activity in any small ruminant like goats. Therefore, in this study, Zea mays (corn seeds), as source of melatonin, were supplemented with regular diet to explore its impact on endogenous melatonin concentration in goat, Capra hircus. Zea mays supplementation with regular diet for 40 days significantly elevated the endogenous melatonin concentration, proliferative response of peripheral blood mononuclear cells and antioxidative enzymes activity along with total antioxidant capacity of the plasma. An increase in circulatory IL-2 and IL-6 level along with declined TNF-α, malondialdehyde and nitric oxide was noted with elevated endogenous melatonin concentration. In conclusion, it might be suggested that corn seed could be used as supplement to modulate endogenous melatonin concentration that may improve cellular-immune function and antioxidant status. The corn seed might also be included as nutraceutical in regular diet to maintain immune-antioxidant homoeostasis in other species.
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Affiliation(s)
- A K Singh
- Pineal Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University Varanasi, Varanasi, India
| | - C Haldar
- Pineal Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University Varanasi, Varanasi, India
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Gallego-Calvo L, Gatica M, Celi I, Guzmán J, Delgadillo J, Zarazaga L. No previous isolation of female goats is required for novel males to induce a male effect, especially if direct physical contact is established. Theriogenology 2014; 82:1310-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2014] [Revised: 08/26/2014] [Accepted: 08/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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17
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Lopez-Sebastián A, Coloma MA, Toledano A, Santiago-Moreno J. Hormone-free Protocols for the Control of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination in Goats. Reprod Domest Anim 2014; 49 Suppl 4:22-9. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2014] [Accepted: 07/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - MA Coloma
- INIA; Dpto. Reproducción Animal; Madrid Spain
| | - A Toledano
- INIA; Dpto. Reproducción Animal; Madrid Spain
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Ghosh S, Singh AK, Haldar C. Seasonal modulation of immunity by melatonin and gonadal steroids in a short day breeder goat Capra hircus. Theriogenology 2014; 82:1121-30. [PMID: 25175759 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.07.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2014] [Revised: 07/18/2014] [Accepted: 07/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Role of melatonin in regulation of immunity and reproduction has never been studied in detail in goats. The aim of the present study was to explore hormonal regulation of immunity in goats with special reference to melatonin. Plasma of male and female goats (n = 18 per sex per season) was processed for hormonal (estrogen, testostrone, and melatonin) and cytokine (interleukin [IL-2], IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor α) measurements during three seasons, i.e., summer, monsoon, and winter. To assess cell-mediated immune response, percent stimulation ratio of thymocytes was recorded during three seasons. To support and establish the modulation by hormones, Western blot analysis for expressions of melatonin receptors (MT1, MT2), androgen receptor, and estrogen receptor α and estimations of marker enzymes, arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase for melatonin and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activities for steroidogenesis were performed in thymus. All the hormones and cytokines were estimated by commercial kits. Biochemical, immunologic, and Western blot analyses were done by standardized protocols. We noted a significant increase in estrogen and testosterone levels (P < 0.05) in circulation during monsoon along with melatonin (P < 0.05) presenting a parallel relationship. Expressions of melatonin receptors (MT1 and MT2) in thymus of both the sexes were significantly high (P < 0.01) during winter. Estrogen receptor α expression in female thymus was significantly high during monsoon (P < 0.05). However, androgen receptor showed almost static expression pattern in male thymus during three seasons. Further, both arylalkylamineN-acetyltransferase and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzyme activities were significantly high (P < 0.05; P < 0.01, respectively) during monsoon. These results suggest that there may be a functional parallelism between gonadal steroids and melatonin as melatonin is progonadotrophic in goats. Cell-mediated immune parameters (percent stimulation ratio of thymocytes) and circulatory levels of cytokines (IL-2, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor α) were significantly high (P < 0.01) during monsoon. In vitro supplementation of gonadal steroids to T-cell culture suppressed immunity but cosupplementation with melatonin restored it. Further, we may also suggest that reproductive and immune seasonality are maintained by variations in circulatory hormones and local synthesis of melatonin and gonadal steroids. These functional interactions between melatonin and gonadal steroid might be of great importance in regulating the goat immunity by developing some hormonal microcircuit (gonadal steroid and melatonin) in lymphatic organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somenath Ghosh
- Pineal Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Amaresh K Singh
- Pineal Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Chandana Haldar
- Pineal Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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Santiago-Moreno J, Toledano-Díaz A, Castaño C, Coloma MA, Esteso MC, Prieto MT, Delgadillo JA, López-Sebastián A. Photoperiod and melatonin treatments for controlling sperm parameters, testicular and accessory sex glands size in male Iberian ibex: A model for captive mountain ruminants. Anim Reprod Sci 2013; 139:45-52. [PMID: 23664101 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2013.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2012] [Revised: 04/11/2013] [Accepted: 04/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study examines whether photoperiod and/or melatonin treatments can improve sperm variables outside the breeding season in the Iberian ibex-a model species for wild mountain ruminants-thus helping in the collection of high quality sperm beyond the normal breeding season for depositing in genetic resource banks. Adult Iberian ibex males (n=17) were divided into four treatment groups: (1) controls under the natural photoperiod (control group; n=4), (2) treatment with melatonin implants on December 22nd, February 22nd and April 22nd (group WS-M; n=5), (3) treatment with short photoperiod cycles, i.e., 2 months of long days followed by melatonin implants (to emulate 2 months of short days) throughout the year (group PHPld+M; n=4), and (4) treatment with melatonin implants on June 22nd and August 22nd (group SS-M; n=4). The interaction treatment x season had a strong influence on testis size (P<0.05), the size of the seminal vesicles (P<0.001), the percentage of abnormal sperms (P<0.05), and percentage non-progressive (P<0.05) and progressive (P<0.001) sperm motility. In groups WS-M and PHPld+M, the normal springtime physiological reductions in testis size, non-progressive sperm motility and acrosome integrity were prevented. The values for the studied sperm variables were, however, reduced in the natural breeding season at the end of the experimental period in group PHPld+M, although not in group WS-M. The pattern of melatonin administration in group SS-M conferred no advantages on reproductive functionality. These results suggest that lengthening the short day period after the winter solstice (the WS-M treatment) extends reproductive activity in this species, allowing good quality sperm to be recovered for conservation purposes during the non-breeding season.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Santiago-Moreno
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, INIA, Avda. Puerta de Hierro km 5.9, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
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Zarazaga LA, Gatica MC, Celi I, Guzmán JL, Malpaux B. Exogenous melatonin after a treatment of artificial long days is able to increase LH secretion during seasonal anoestrus in Payoya goats. JOURNAL OF APPLIED ANIMAL RESEARCH 2013. [DOI: 10.1080/09712119.2012.738226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Influence of the male effect on the reproductive performance of female Payoya goats implanted with melatonin at the winter solstice. Anim Reprod Sci 2013; 137:183-8. [PMID: 23428292 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2013.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2012] [Revised: 01/24/2013] [Accepted: 01/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This research addressed the effect on reproductive performance of melatonin implants inserted at the winter solstice in Payoya goats. Female goats (n = 100) were divided into two experimental groups, one subjected and the other not subjected to the male effect. Half of each group was implanted with melatonin at the winter solstice; the remaining animals received no such hormone treatment. Oestrous activity, as detected by visual observation, was recorded daily using melatonin implanted bucks. Trans-rectal ultrasonography was used to estimate of time of ovulation. Corpus luteum activity was confirmed by plasma concentrations of progesterone greater than 0.5 ng/mL. Fecundity, fertility, prolificacy and productivity were calculated. Neither the male effect nor melatonin treatment alone influenced reproductive performance. The greater fecundity and fertility: 91.7% (P < 0.05) was obtained with melatonin implantation plus the male effect. Greater productivity occurred when melatonin was used (1.02 ± 0.10 compared with 0.76 ± 0.66 mean number of kids per female for melatonin and non-melatonin treated groups, respectively, P < 0.05). The present results show that the fertility of female Payoya goats implanted with melatonin at the winter solstice can be improved by subjecting females to the male effect. Moreover, productivity of does is enhanced when melatonin implants are used in comparison to productivity of non-treated females.
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Kaushalendra, Haldar C. Correlation between peripheral melatonin and general immune status of domestic goat, Capra hircus: A seasonal and sex dependent variation. Small Rumin Res 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2012.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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23
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Enhancement of the male effect on reproductive performance in female Mediterranean goats with long day and/or melatonin treatment. Vet J 2012; 192:441-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2011.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2011] [Revised: 08/26/2011] [Accepted: 09/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Dholpuria S, Vyas S, Purohit GN, Pathak KML. Sonographic monitoring of early follicle growth induced by melatonin implants in camels and the subsequent fertility. J Ultrasound 2012; 15:135-41. [PMID: 23396356 DOI: 10.1016/j.jus.2012.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study examined the effect of melatonin implants on follicle growth in dromedary camels two months ahead of their natural breeding season (December to March). Female camels (n = 6) were treated with melatonin implants at the dose rate of 1 implant per 28 kg body weight sc. Control camels (n = 6) were administered an SC placebo implant of 8 ml vitamin A. Ovarian ultrasonography was performed at weekly interval upto 7 weeks. Camels were mated with virile stud when a follicle (≥10 mm) was visible on either of the ovaries. Blood was collected on day 7, 9, 15, 20, 25 and 30 for assay of plasma progesterone and sonography performed at the same time. Small follicles (2-3 mm) appeared around the periphery of ovaries in 83.3% of camels by day 7 and in 100% camels by day 14. By the end of 7th week an ovulatory size follicle (≥1.0 cm) could be observed in 83.3% of treated camels, and these camels were mated with virile studs. In control group, small follicles appeared at the periphery of ovaries only in 66.6% camels but did not progress in growth except in one camel (16.6%) however, ovulating size (≥10 mm) follicle was not observed in any camel by the end of 7th week. All treated camels ovulated and one treated camel became pregnant while early embryonic death occurred in one camel. Non-pregnant camels of both groups were mated during the breeding season. All camels of treatment group and 33.33% camels of control group became pregnant by the end of breeding season (April 2010). It was concluded that melatonin implants can augment the follicle growth in lactating camels ahead of the breeding season and pregnancy can occur on mating. Fertility of treated camels during the breeding season is improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Dholpuria
- Veterinary Hospital Garabdesar, District Bikaner, Rajasthan, India
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Abstract
Reproduction of small ruminants can be controlled by several methods developed in recent decades. Some of these involve administration of hormones that modify the physiological chain of events involved in the sexual cycle. Methods which utilise progesterone or its analogues are based on their effects in the luteal phase of the cycle, simulating the action of natural progesterone produced by the corpus luteum after ovulation, which is responsible for controlling LH secretion from the pituitary. Use of prostaglandins is an alternative method for controlling reproduction by eliminating the corpus luteum and inducing a subsequent follicular phase with ovulation. Finally, the discovery of the properties of melatonin in photoperiod-dependent breeding animals opened up a new methodology to control reproduction in these species, inducing changes in the perception of photoperiod and the annual pattern of reproduction. Use of hormones to induce oestrus has allowed increased use of artificial insemination in small ruminants, a very useful management tool, considering the difficulty of detecting oestrus in these species. At commercial level, synchronisation of oestrus allows control of lambing and kidding, with subsequent synchronisation of weaning of young animals for slaughter. Also, it allows more efficient use of labour and animal facilities. Multiple ovulation and embryo transfer programmes are also possible with the use of oestrus synchronisation and artificial insemination. Finally, hormonal treatments have also been used to induce puberty in ewe-lambs and doelings.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Abecia
- Depto de Producción Animal y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Spain.
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Zarazaga LA, Celi I, Guzmán JL, Malpaux B. The effect of nutrition on the neural mechanisms potentially involved in melatonin-stimulated LH secretion in female Mediterranean goats. J Endocrinol 2011; 211:263-72. [PMID: 21903864 DOI: 10.1530/joe-11-0225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
This research examines which neural mechanisms among the endogenous opioid, dopaminergic, serotonergic and excitatory amino acid systems are involved in the stimulation of LH secretion by melatonin implantation and their modulation by nutritional level. Female goats were distributed to two experimental groups that received either 1.1 (group H; n=24) or 0.7 (group L; n=24) times their nutritional maintenance requirements. Half of each group was implanted with melatonin after a long-day period. Plasma LH concentrations were measured twice per week. The effects of i.v. injections of naloxone, pimozide, cyproheptadine and N-methyl-d,l-aspartate (NMDA) on LH secretion were assessed the day before melatonin implantation and again on days 30 and 45. The functioning of all but the dopaminergic systems was clearly modified by the level of nutrition, melatonin implantation and time elapsed since implantation. Thirty days after implantation, naloxone increased LH concentrations irrespective of the level of nutrition (P<0.05), similar to NMDA in the melatonin-implanted H goats (HM; P<0.01). On day 45, naloxone increased LH concentrations in the HM animals (P<0.05), similar to cyproheptadine in both the non-implanted H (HC) and the HM animals (P<0.01). Finally, at 45 days, NMDA increased the LH concentration in all subgroups (P<0.01). These results provide evidence that the effects of different neural systems on LH secretion are modified by nutritional level and melatonin implantation. Endogenous opioids seem to be most strongly involved in the inhibition of LH secretion on days 30 and 45 after melatonin implantation. However, the serotonergic mechanism appears to be most influenced by nutritional level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis A Zarazaga
- Department of Agroforestry Sciences, University of Huelva, Carretera de Palos de la Frontera s/n, Palos de la Frontera, 21819 Huelva, Spain.
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Zarazaga LA, Gatica MC, Celi I, Guzmán JL. Reproductive performance is improved during seasonal anoestrus when female and male Murciano-Granadina goats receive melatonin implants and in Payoya goats when females are thus treated. Reprod Domest Anim 2011; 47:436-42. [PMID: 22022882 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2011.01899.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: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
This work investigates whether the reproductive performance of Mediterranean goats achieved using melatonin implants at around the spring equinox is affected by the protocol followed, i.e. implanting females only, males only, both sexes or neither sex. In a first experiment, Murciano-Granadina females (n = 419, 510 and 631 for three consecutive years) were divided into four groups: treated with melatonin (FM) and not treated with melatonin (FC), mounted by males treated with melatonin (MM) or not (MC). In a second experiment, performed during 2009, the same protocols were used with 635 Payoya females and the results compared with those obtained for the same year for the Murciano-Granadina breed. Fertility (percentage of goats kidding), litter size (number of kids born per female kidded) and productivity (number of kids per female in each mating group) were calculated. In the first experiment, better reproductive performances were obtained when females (overall fertility: 71.1% vs 57.0% for the FM and FC animals; productivity 1.37 ± 0.04 kids per female vs 1.12 ± 0.03 kids per female for the FM and FC animals; p < 0.01) or males (overall fertility: 65.9% vs 58.4 for the MM and MC animals; productivity 1.28 ± 0.03 kids per female vs 1.13 ± 0.04 kids per female for MM and MC groups, respectively; p < 0.01) were implanted with melatonin. Moreover, the interaction sex × melatonin treatment had a significant effect (p < 0.05) on productivity. In the second experiment, for the Murciano-Granadina breed, the greatest increase in the number of kids born per female was obtained when the females were treated with melatonin, in either the FM/MC or FM/MM protocols (0.54 extra kids and 0.53 extra kids per female, respectively) (p < 0.01). In the Payoya breed, the greatest increase was obtained using the FM/MC protocol (0.19 extra kids per female). Thus, improved reproductive performances are obtained when female Murciano-Granadina and Payoya goats are implanted with melatonin, although important differences in reproductive performance are seen between the breeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- L A Zarazaga
- Departamento de Ciencias Agroforestales, Universidad de Huelva, Huelva, Spain.
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Rincón R, Aréchiga C, Escobar F, Aguilera-Soto J, Lopez-Carlos M, Silva J, Medina C, Meza-Herrera C, Valencia J. The male effect stimulus positively increased the ovarian and reproductive seasonality in Criollo goats irrespective of a controlled photoperiodic regime. JOURNAL OF APPLIED ANIMAL RESEARCH 2011. [DOI: 10.1080/09712119.2011.607720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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Rincón R, Aréchiga C, Escobar F, Aguilera-Soto J, Lopez-Carlos M, Silva J, Medina C, Meza-Herrera C, Valencia J. The male effect stimulus positively influences luteinising hormone secretion in ovariectomised Criollo goats irrespective of a controlled photoperiodic regime. JOURNAL OF APPLIED ANIMAL RESEARCH 2011. [DOI: 10.1080/09712119.2011.607719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Zarazaga L, Gatica M, Celi I, Guzmán J, Malpaux B. Artificial long days and daily contact with bucks induce ovarian but not oestrous activity during the non-breeding season in Mediterranean goat females. Anim Reprod Sci 2011; 125:81-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2011.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2010] [Revised: 02/14/2011] [Accepted: 02/23/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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31
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Artificial long days in addition to exogenous melatonin and daily contact with bucks stimulate the ovarian and oestrous activity in Mediterranean goat females. Animal 2011; 5:1414-9. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731111000413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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Abecia JA, Forcada F, González-Bulnes A. Pharmaceutical control of reproduction in sheep and goats. Vet Clin North Am Food Anim Pract 2010; 27:67-79. [PMID: 21215891 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvfa.2010.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Small ruminant species such as sheep and goats are short-day breeders, which is a crucial factor affecting the offer of lambs and kids throughout the year. An appropriate management of reproduction allows ewes and does to breed in the spring to increase the supply of product to the marketplace on a year-round basis. Pharmaceutical control of reproduction is possible, usually through administration of hormones or analogues related to the natural estrous cycle, such as progesterone, prostaglandins, and/or melatonin.
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Affiliation(s)
- José A Abecia
- Dept de Producción, Animal y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Fernando Forcada
- Dept de Producción, Animal y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
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Effect of artificial long days and/or melatonin treatment on the sexual activity of Mediterranean bucks. Small Rumin Res 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2010.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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