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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] [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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Souza-Fabjan JMG, Oliveira MEF, Guimarães MPP, Brandão FZ, Bartlewski PM, Fonseca JF. Review: Non-surgical artificial insemination and embryo recovery as safe tools for genetic preservation in small ruminants. Animal 2023; 17 Suppl 1:100787. [PMID: 37567658 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2023.100787] [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: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Artificial insemination (AI) and in vivo embryo production (or multiple ovulation and embryo transfer, MOET) programs are both instrumental in accelerating the propagation of genetically and economically superior goats and sheep. The aim of this review was to present the current gestalt of non-surgical AI and embryo recovery (NSER) procedures in small ruminants. Small body size, precluding rectal palpation, and highly limited penetrability of the uterine cervix in ewes are the major reasons for the scarce use of non-surgical assisted reproduction techniques in this species. As a result, AI and embryo recovery techniques in sheep mainly involve laparoscopy or laparotomy (LAP). In does, however, the Embrapa method of AI allows for successful intrauterine deposition of semen, resulting in pregnancy rates from 50 to 80% under field conditions (>3 000 goats inseminated) when frozen-thawed semen is used. After the administration of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α), non-surgical (transcervical) embryo recovery is also feasible in goats, with the cervical penetration rate approaching 100%. There is a paucity of information on the efficacy of non-surgical AI using frozen semen in sheep, but the results are satisfactory with fresh, cooled, or chilled ram semen. An application of the NSER technique in ewes has greatly improved over the last decade, and cervical penetration rates of ∼90% can be achieved when a hormonal cervical dilation protocol using PGF2α, oxytocin, and/or estradiol ester (e.g., estradiol benzoate) is applied. In some genotypes of sheep, sufficient cervical dilation can be induced without estradiol ester included in the protocol. Several studies indicated that recovery of transferable quality ovine embryos using NSER is comparable to that employing a ventral midline laparotomy, and NSER is evidently a method of choice when animal welfare is concerned. Considering both the number of retrievable embryos and animal well-being, the NSER is a viable alternative for surgical procedures. With further developments, it has the makings of a primary, if not exclusive, embryo recovery technique in small ruminants worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M G Souza-Fabjan
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Vital Brazil Filho, 64, Cep 24230-340, Niterói, RJ, Brazil.
| | - M E F Oliveira
- Departamento de Patologia, Reprodução e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, Cep 14884-900 Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - M P P Guimarães
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Vital Brazil Filho, 64, Cep 24230-340, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - F Z Brandão
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Vital Brazil Filho, 64, Cep 24230-340, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - P M Bartlewski
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - J F Fonseca
- Embrapa Caprinos e Ovinos, Rodovia MG 133, Km 42, Cep 36155000, Coronel Pacheco, MG, Brazil
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Falchi L, Ledda S, Zedda MT. Embryo biotechnologies in sheep: Achievements and new improvements. Reprod Domest Anim 2022; 57 Suppl 5:22-33. [PMID: 35437835 PMCID: PMC9790389 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
To date, large-scale use of multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET) programmes in ovine species is limited due to unpredictable results and high costs of hormonal stimulation and treatment. Therefore, even if considered reliable, they are not fully applicable in large-scale systems. More recently, the new prospects offered by in vitro embryo production (IVEP) through collection of oocytes post-mortem or by repeated ovum pick-up from live females suggested an alternative to MOET programmes and may be more extensively used, moving from the exclusive research in the laboratory to field application. The possibility to perform oocytes recovery from juvenile lambs to obtain embryos (JIVET) offers the great advantage to significantly reduce the generation interval, speeding the rate of genetic improvement. Although in the past decades several studies implemented novel protocols to enhance embryo production in sheep, the conditions of every single stage of IVEP can significantly affect embryo yield and successful transfer into the recipients. Moreover, the recent progresses on embryo production and freezing technologies might allow wider propagation of valuable genes in small ruminants populations and may be used for constitution of flocks without risks of disease. In addition, they can give a substantial contribution in preserving endangered breeds. The new era of gene editing might offer innovative perspectives in sheep breeding, but the application of such novel techniques implies involvement of specialized operators and is limited by relatively high costs for embryo manipulation and molecular biology analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Falchi
- Sezione di Cl. Ostetrica e GinecologiaDipartimento di Medicina VeterinariaUniversità degli Studi di SassariSassariItaly
| | - Sergio Ledda
- Sezione di Cl. Ostetrica e GinecologiaDipartimento di Medicina VeterinariaUniversità degli Studi di SassariSassariItaly
| | - Maria T. Zedda
- Sezione di Cl. Ostetrica e GinecologiaDipartimento di Medicina VeterinariaUniversità degli Studi di SassariSassariItaly
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The Design of a New Catheter for Transcervical Artificial Insemination in Ewes. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11123348. [PMID: 34944124 PMCID: PMC8698084 DOI: 10.3390/ani11123348] [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] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In ovine species, transcervical artificial insemination (TCAI) is limited by the poor quality of frozen-thawed semen and by the convoluted cervical lumen hampering the passage of inseminating devices. The aim of the study was to test the efficiency of three newly designed catheters with bent tips of 3.5 mm, 5.0 mm or 8.0 mm in terms of reproductive performances (experiment 1) and to compare the results of TCAI with the best performing catheter of experiment 1 to those obtained in ewes submitted to surgical incision of cervical folds (SICF) prior to insemination (experiment 2). The following parameters were assessed: time to pass the cervix; depth of cervical penetration; site of deposition of semen; pregnancy (PR); and lambing rates (LR). The results of experiment 1 indicated that the 5.0 mm tip catheter resulted in deeper and faster TCAI and higher PR and LR compared to 3.5 mm and 8.0 mm tip catheters (p < 0.05). In experiment 2, TCAI with the 5.0 mm catheter did not differ from TCAI after SICF in terms of depth of semen deposition, time to pass the cervix, PR and LR (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the use of a catheter that allowed transcervical uterine deposition of semen without excessive manipulation led to satisfactory pregnancy rates.
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Effects of Three Semen Extenders, Breeding Season Month and Freezing-Thawing Cycle on Spermatozoa Preservation of Portuguese Merino Sheep. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11092619. [PMID: 34573585 PMCID: PMC8467096 DOI: 10.3390/ani11092619] [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] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Spermatozoa (SPZ) viability, morphology and the kinetics of fresh and thawing Portuguese Merino Semen were evaluated at different breeding season months using an owner egg yolk-based semen extender (S-EXT) and two commercial lecithin-based semen extenders. The main significant differences between S-EXT were observed for thawed semen. The viability (30% vs. 15% of alive SPZ; p < 0.001), total motility (74% vs. 34%; p < 0.001), total progressive motility (18% vs. 5%; p < 0.001), straight line velocity (37 vs. 22 μm/s; p < 0.001) and beat cross frequency (13 vs. 6 Hz; p < 0.05) were higher in the owner egg yolk than in egg yolk-free-based S-EXT. Significant interactions between S-EXT, semen processing and/or months of semen collection were observed on several of the 22 evaluated SPZ parameters and should be elucidated in further studies. The egg yolk-based S-EXT was more consistent across the months in cryopreserving SPZ than commercial egg yolk- free-based S-EXT and still seems, to the present day, the most appropriate S-EXT to be used in (Merino) sheep. Abstract This study aimed to evaluate and compare the effect of three semen extenders (S-EXT) on 22 spermatozoa (SPZ) parameters (subjective and computer-assisted sperm analysis evaluations), before and after semen cryopreservation throughout different months of the breeding season in the Portuguese Merino breed. According to the multivariable model, the SPZ viability (alive %), kinetics subjective individual motility, total motility, total progressive motility and its subpopulations, and beat cross frequency) were higher in the egg yolk-based S-EXT improved by Estação Zootécnica National (Portugal) than in Ovixcell® or Andromed® extenders. All the differences were only observed in thawed semen, except for total motility and total progressive motility, in which Ovixcell® also showed the poorest results on fresh semen. An interaction effect between S-EXT and semen processing was observed on 72.3% (17/22) of the evaluated parameters, evidencing a variable cryoprotective action between S-EXT. The SPZ viability was poorer in the onset of the breeding season (end of April/early May) than in the previous middle breeding season (November/early December), suggesting the influence of a short anoestrous season on ejaculate quality, even though the volume and SPZ concentration of the ejaculates remained stable throughout the experiment. Additionally, S-EXT x semen processing x month interaction effect on 59.1% (13/22) of the evaluated parameters evidenced the importance of SPZ time collection in a natural environment to cryopreserve ram’s semen. We concluded that, overall, the egg yolk-based S-EXT provided a greater value to the cryopreservation of Merino rams´ semen. Nevertheless, the causes of the interaction effect between S-EXT, semen processing and/or month on several SPZ parameters should be addressed, including SPZ molecular research in new studies, in order to improve egg yolk-based as well as in egg yolk-free-based S-EXT.
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Padilha-Nakaghi LC, Uscategui RAR, Oliveira MEF, Nociti RP, Macente BI, Coutinho LN, Nakaghi EYO, Motta GA, Santos VJC, Maciel GS, Mariano RSG, Barros FFPC, Primo FL, Tedesco AC, Vicente WRR. Local α1-adrenergic blockers: An alternative for sheep cervix dilation? Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 222:106609. [PMID: 33002660 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
To facilitate transcervical artificial insemination in sheep, the effects of local treatment with α1-adrenergic receptor antagonists on cervix dilation and hemodynamics were evaluated. Ewes (n = 7) were subjected to oestrous synchronisation every 40 days and assigned to treatments in a Latin square experimental design (seven animals × seven periods) with a factorial treatment arrangement (A × B), Factors A (prazosin or tamsulosin) and B (1, 2, or 4 mg/animal). Ewes of the six treatment groups (P1, P2, P4, T1, T2, and T4) were administered α1-adrenergic receptor antagonists while those of the control group (CG) were administered only α1-adrenergic antagonist carrier agent. Distance that the transcervical catheter penetrated without cervical resistance, mean arterial pressure, and uterine artery dopplerfluxometry were evaluated before and after 30 min, 1, 2, 4, 8, and 10 h of treatment. Catheter penetration distance was greater in ewes of the T4 and P4 groups (P < 0.01), with there being a positive correlation between dose and distance (r = 0.243). The penetration distance was similar (P = 0.84) for treated groups, with the greatest penetration occurring 2, 4, and 6 h after treatment (P < 0.01). The passage into the uterine lumen was greater (P = 0.013) in ewes of the P4 (17.9 %) and T4 (19.6 %) groups. There were no effects on blood pressure or uterine blood flow (P> 0.05). These preliminary results indicate there are benefits of treatment with 4 mg/animal of tamsulosin or prazosin in catheter passage through the sheep cervix 2-6 h after administration without hemodynamic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana C Padilha-Nakaghi
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias (FCAV), Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Cep 14884-900, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil.
| | - Ricardo A R Uscategui
- Instituto de Ciências Agrarias, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Unaí, MG, Brazil
| | - Maria Emilia F Oliveira
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias (FCAV), Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Cep 14884-900, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Ricardo P Nociti
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária-ZMV, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos (FZEA), Universidade de São Paulo (USP), SP, Brazil
| | - Beatrice I Macente
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias (FCAV), Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Cep 14884-900, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Leandro N Coutinho
- Instituto da Saúde e Produção Animal (ISPA), Universidade Federal Rural da Amazônia (UFRA), Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Y O Nakaghi
- Coordenadoria de Defesa Agropecuária do Estado de São Paulo (CDA/SSA-SP), Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Guilherme A Motta
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias (FCAV), Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Cep 14884-900, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Victor J C Santos
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias (FCAV), Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Cep 14884-900, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Giovanna S Maciel
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias (FCAV), Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Cep 14884-900, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Renata S G Mariano
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias (FCAV), Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Cep 14884-900, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Felipe F P C Barros
- Departamento de Medicina e Cirurgia Veterinária, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
| | - Fernando L Primo
- Departamento de Engenharia de Bioprocessos e Biotecnologia, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Araraquara, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Antonio C Tedesco
- Departamento de Química, Laboratório de Fotobiologia e Fotomedicina, Centro de Nanotecnologia e Engenharia Tecidual, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de SãoPaulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Wilter R R Vicente
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias (FCAV), Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Cep 14884-900, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
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Alvarez M, Anel-Lopez L, Boixo JC, Chamorro C, Neila-Montero M, Montes-Garrido R, de Paz P, Anel L. Current challenges in sheep artificial insemination: A particular insight. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 54 Suppl 4:32-40. [PMID: 31625241 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Ovine artificial insemination (OAI) is not commonly performed because of specific problems related to semen application techniques, leading to highly variable results. The ideal methodology (frozen-thawed semen/vaginal route) is unfeasible under field conditions due to the cervix morphology of the ewe, which prevents the process of intrauterine insemination necessary to obtain acceptable results. Currently, OAI commercial programmes use superficial cervical insemination, CAI (vaginal), with chilled semen (15°C) and intrauterine insemination, LAI (laparoscopic), with frozen-thawed semen. The ability to improve upon these contrasting techniques may be derived from examining certain poorly studied factors such as insemination time, productive state of females and alternatives of seminal preservation, some of which we reviewed in this work. This interim solution will remain in use until AI by the vaginal route with frozen-thawed semen is developed, but it poses new challenges in optimizing the freezing of the sperm and adapting the cervical (CAI) and/or transcervical intrauterine AI (TCAI). In this review, we address the current problems and evaluate their methodological (mechanical) and chemical (dilation) alternatives. Currently, TCAI is a methodologically complex technique with poor fertility results, so further studies are needed to improve the logistics of this procedure and the results of its application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Alvarez
- Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Veterinary Anatomy, University of Leon, Leon, Spain
| | - Luis Anel-Lopez
- Anatomy, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Veterinary Anatomy, University of Leon, Leon, Spain
| | | | - Cesar Chamorro
- Anatomy, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Veterinary Anatomy, University of Leon, Leon, Spain
| | - Marta Neila-Montero
- Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Veterinary Anatomy, University of Leon, Leon, Spain
| | - Rafael Montes-Garrido
- Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Veterinary Anatomy, University of Leon, Leon, Spain
| | - Paulino de Paz
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Leon, Leon, Spain
| | - Luis Anel
- Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Veterinary Anatomy, University of Leon, Leon, Spain
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Pau S, Falchi L, Ledda M, Pivato I, Valentino M, Bogliolo L, Ariu F, Zedda MT. Reproductive Performance Following Transcervical Insemination with Frozen Thawed Semen in Ewes Submitted to Surgical Incision of Cervical Folds (SICF): Comparison with Laparoscopic Artificial Insemination. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10010108. [PMID: 31936444 PMCID: PMC7022337 DOI: 10.3390/ani10010108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The anatomical barriers of the female reproductive tract and the low quality of the frozen thawed semen of rams are limiting factors in spreading superior genotypes in the ovine species. Artificial insemination (AI) is therefore mostly performed by laparoscopy. The surgical incision of cervical folds (SICF) has been demonstrated to allow transcervical intrauterine semen deposition. Here we present data regarding pregnancy (PR) and lambing (LR) rates obtained by transcervical AI following SICF, compared to those obtained by laparoscopic AI using frozen thawed semen. The results showed that in 89.7% of ewes submitted to SICF intrauterine, the deposition of semen was allowed. Moreover, in both experimental groups, the PR and LR were similar. These observations suggest that SICF could represent a valid preliminary procedure to allow transcervical AI in animals of superior genotypes contributing to genetic improvement. Abstract Transcervical artificial insemination (AI) after the surgical incision of cervical folds (SICF) could represent a valid alternative to laparoscopic AI when frozen thawed semen is used. The aim of this experiment was to compare pregnancy (PR) and lambing rates (LR) of ewes submitted either to transcervical AI after SICF or to laparoscopic AI using frozen thawed semen. Pregnant at term ewes (n = 80) were allocated in two experimental groups. After lambing, one group (n = 39) was submitted to SICF. The remaining ewes that were regularly lambed were allocated to the group of laparoscopic AI (n = 40). Six months later, oestrous cycle of both experimental groups was synchronised and all ewes were artificially inseminated with frozen thawed semen. Ewes submitted to SICF underwent transcervical insemination and intrauterine deposition of semen was recorded. The remaining animals were submitted to laparoscopic AI. Pregnancy and LR were recorded. Intrauterine deposition of semen was possible in 89.7% pf ewes submitted to SICF. This group showed similar PR and LR compared to the laparoscopic group (respectively: PR, 71.8% vs. 70% and LR, 64.1% vs. 65%; p > 0.05). Transcervical AI after SICF may represent a valid alternative to laparoscopy in AI protocols requiring the use of frozen thawed semen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Pau
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, via Vienna n.2, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (S.P.); (M.L.); (M.V.); (L.B.); (F.A.); (M.T.Z.)
- Centro di Competenza Biodiversità Animale, viale Adua 2/c, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Laura Falchi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, via Vienna n.2, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (S.P.); (M.L.); (M.V.); (L.B.); (F.A.); (M.T.Z.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Mauro Ledda
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, via Vienna n.2, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (S.P.); (M.L.); (M.V.); (L.B.); (F.A.); (M.T.Z.)
| | - Ivo Pivato
- Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinaria, Universidade de Brasilia, Campus Universitario Darcy Ribeiro, Brasilia 70910-900, Brazil;
| | - Melosu Valentino
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, via Vienna n.2, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (S.P.); (M.L.); (M.V.); (L.B.); (F.A.); (M.T.Z.)
| | - Luisa Bogliolo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, via Vienna n.2, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (S.P.); (M.L.); (M.V.); (L.B.); (F.A.); (M.T.Z.)
| | - Federica Ariu
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, via Vienna n.2, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (S.P.); (M.L.); (M.V.); (L.B.); (F.A.); (M.T.Z.)
| | - Maria Teresa Zedda
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, via Vienna n.2, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (S.P.); (M.L.); (M.V.); (L.B.); (F.A.); (M.T.Z.)
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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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10
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Prellwitz L, Zambrini FN, Guimarães JD, de Sousa MAP, Oliveira MEF, Garcia AR, Esteves SN, Bartlewski PM, Souza-Fabjan JMG, Fonseca JF. Comparison of the intravenous and intravaginal route of oxytocin administration for cervical dilation protocol and non-surgical embryo recovery in oestrous-induced Santa Inês ewes. Reprod Domest Anim 2019; 54:1230-1235. [PMID: 31243815 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study compared the effects of intravaginal and intravenous routes of oxytocin (OT) administration in 46 oestrous-induced Santa Inês ewes (6-day treatment with progestin-releasing intravaginal sponges and a single injection of 200 IU of eCG at the time of sponge removal) that underwent transcervical embryo recovery 6-7 days after oestrous onset and mating. All ewes received 37.5 μg of d-cloprostenol via latero-vulvar route, and 1 mg of oestradiol benzoate i.m. 16 hr before and 50 IU of OT 20 min before non-surgical embryo recovery (NSER), with OT being administered intravenously (n = 21) or intravaginally (n = 21). An overall oestrous response was 95.6% (44/46), and adequate cervical retraction could be accomplished in 78.6% (33/42) of ewes. The percentage of successful NSER procedures was 57% (24/42) or 72.7% (24/33) of animals with sufficient cervical retraction. The duration of NSER procedure averaged 28 min (range: 17-40 min) and ~96% of flushing fluid could be recovered (range: 85%-100%). Out of 18 ewes that could not undergo NSER, 12 (66.6%) presented various anatomical barriers, whilst the other 33.4% did not present these barriers and still could not be traversed. Excluding the ewes with those anatomical features, the overall success rate of NSER was 80% (24/30). The route of OT administration had no effect on NSER efficiency or the ease with which transcervical embryo flushing was performed. Both routes of OT administration can be used for cervical dilation protocol. Discarding ewes with anatomical features precluding cervical penetration is highly recommended to increase the efficacy of NSER in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Prellwitz
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói-RJ, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Pawel Mieczyslaw Bartlewski
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph-ON, Ontario, Canada
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11
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Surgery on cervical folds for transcervical intrauterine artificial insemination with frozen-thawed semen enhances pregnancy rates in the sheep. Theriogenology 2019; 126:28-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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12
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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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13
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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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14
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Fernandes CB, Loux SC, Scoggin KE, Squires EL, Troedsson MH, Esteller-Vico A, Ball BA. Sex-steroid receptors, prostaglandin E2 receptors, and cyclooxygenase in the equine cervix during estrus, diestrus and pregnancy: Gene expression and cellular localization. Anim Reprod Sci 2017; 187:141-151. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2017.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Revised: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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15
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An in vitro investigation of the actions of reproductive hormones on the cervix of the ewe in the follicular stage: the effects of 17β-estradiol, oxytocin, FSH, and arachidonic acid on the cervical pathway for the synthesis of prostaglandin E2. Theriogenology 2014; 83:1007-14. [PMID: 25586640 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2014] [Revised: 11/28/2014] [Accepted: 12/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
During the periovulatory period, the cervix of the ewe relaxes and this mechanism is thought to be mediated by oxytocin and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in response to increased concentrations of 17β-estradiol and perhaps FSH. The aim of the study was to determine the in vitro effects of 17β-estradiol, FSH, oxytocin, and arachidonic acid (AA) on the synthesis of PGE2 and on the expression of oxytocin receptor (OTR), cytoplasmic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2), and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) in explants of cervical tissue collected from ewes in the periovulatory phase of the estrous cycle. Cervical minces from ewes in the follicular phase of the estrous cycle were cultured in supplemented Eagle's Minimum Essential Medium for 48 hours with 17β-estradiol, FSH, oxytocin, or AA. After incubation, the tissue was stored at -80 °C and the media at -20 °C. Western immunoblotting was used to determine relative levels of OTR, cPLA2, and COX-2 in cervical tissue, and the media was analyzed by RIA, to determine the concentration of PGE2. The addition of 17β-estradiol increased the concentration of PGE2 in the media (P = 0.001), the levels of COX-2 (P = 0.02) and OTR (P = 0.006) but not those of cPLA2 (P = 0.15). The addition of FSH increased the levels of COX-2 (P = 0.01) but, it had no effect on the concentration of PGE2 (P = 0.08) or on the levels of OTR (P = 0.07) and cPLA2 (P = 0.15). Oxytocin did not increase the levels of COX-2 (P = 0.38) but increased those of OTR (P = 0.001) and cPLA2 (P = 0.01) but not on the concentration of PGE2 in the media. Arachidonic acid increased the levels of cPLA2 (P = 0.01) and those of COX-2 (P = 0.02) but not the concentration of PGE2 in the media. Our findings suggest that the PGE2-mediated mechanisms of cervical relaxation in the ewe during the follicular phase are stimulated by FSH, 17β-estradiol, oxytocin, and AA. They all appear to act by inducing receptors and enzymes along the synthetic pathway for PGE2.
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16
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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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17
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Barbas J, Horta A, Marques C, Baptista M, Mascarenhas R, Martins D, Vasques M, Pereira R, Cavaco-Gonçalves S. The fertility increase after misoprostol administration is differently expressed when sheep are inseminated with chilled or frozen–thawed semen. Small Rumin Res 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2013.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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