1
|
El Amiri B, Rahim A. Exploring Endogenous and Exogenous Factors for Successful Artificial Insemination in Sheep: A Global Overview. Vet Sci 2024; 11:86. [PMID: 38393104 PMCID: PMC10891879 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11020086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Artificial insemination (AI) plays a vital role in animal breeding programs. AI is applied to enhance animal genetics and facilitate the widespread integration of desirable characteristics with a high potential for productivity. However, in sheep, this biotechnology is not commonly practicable due to multi-factorial challenges, resulting in inconsistent outcomes and unpredictable results. Thoughtful selection of semen donors and recipients based on genetic merit deeply impacts ovine AI outcomes. Additionally, endogenous factors such as breed, age, fertility traits, genetic disorders, and cervical anatomy in ewes contribute to ovine AI success. Extensive research has studied exogenous influences on sexual behavior, reproductive health, and hormonal regulation, all impacting ovine AI success. These exogenous factors include techniques like estrus induction, synchronization, semen handling methods (fresh/chilled/frozen), and insemination methods (cervical/laparoscopic), as well as nutritional factors and climatic conditions. This overview of the literature highlights the endogenous and exogenous challenges facing successful ovine AI and proposes strategies and best practices for improvement. This paper will serve as a guide for understanding and optimizing the success of ovine AI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bouchra El Amiri
- Animal Production Unit, Regional Center Agricultural Research of Settat, National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA), Avenue Ennasr, P.O. Box 415 Rabat Principal, Rabat 10090, Morocco;
- African Sustainable Agriculture Research Institute (ASARI), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), Laayoune 70000, Morocco
| | - Abdellatif Rahim
- Animal Production Unit, Regional Center Agricultural Research of Settat, National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA), Avenue Ennasr, P.O. Box 415 Rabat Principal, Rabat 10090, Morocco;
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Neurosciences, Natural Resources and Environment, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Hassan First University of Settat, P.O. Box 577, Settat 26000, Morocco
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Contreras-Correa ZE, Messman RD, Swanson RM, Lemley CO. Melatonin in Health and Disease: A Perspective for Livestock Production. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13030490. [PMID: 36979425 PMCID: PMC10046399 DOI: 10.3390/biom13030490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Mounting evidence in the literature indicates an important role of endogenous and exogenous melatonin in driving physiological and molecular adaptations in livestock. Melatonin has been extensively studied in seasonally polyestrous animals whereby supplementation studies have been used to adjust circannual rhythms in herds of animals under abnormal photoperiodic conditions. Livestock undergo multiple metabolic and physiological adaptation processes throughout their production cycle which can result in decreased immune response leading to chronic illness, weight loss, or decreased production efficiency; however, melatonin’s antioxidant capacity and immunostimulatory properties could alleviate these effects. The cardiovascular system responds to melatonin and depending on receptor type and localization, melatonin can vasodilate or vasoconstrict several systemic arteries, thereby controlling whole animal nutrient partitioning via vascular resistance. Increased incidences of non-communicable diseases in populations exposed to circadian disruption have uncovered novel pathways of neurohormones, such as melatonin, influence health, and disease. Perturbations in immune function can negatively impact the growth and development of livestock which has been examined following melatonin supplementation. Specifically, melatonin can influence nutrient uptake, circulating nutrient profiles, and endocrine profiles controlling economically important livestock growth and development. This review focuses on the physiological, cellular, and molecular implications of melatonin on the health and disease of domesticated food animals.
Collapse
|
3
|
Pellicer-Rubio MT, Laignel G, Thomas Y, Prache S, Benoit M, Tournadre H. Reproductive performance in two organic sheep farming systems differing by the number of mating sessions in and out of the breeding season. Theriogenology 2022; 195:238-248. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.10.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
|
4
|
de Brun V, Loor JJ, Naya H, Graña-Baumgartner A, Vailati-Riboni M, Bulgari O, Shahzad K, Abecia JA, Sosa C, Meikle A. The presence of an embryo affects day 14 uterine transcriptome depending on the nutritional status in sheep. b. Immune system and uterine remodeling. Theriogenology 2020; 161:210-218. [PMID: 33340754 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Transcriptomics and bioinformatics were used to investigate the potential interactions of undernutrition and the presence of the conceptus at the time of maternal recognition of pregnancy on uterine immune system and remodeling. Adult Rasa Aragonesa ewes were allocated to one of two planes of nutrition for 28 days: maintenance energy intake (control; 5 cyclic, 6 pregnant ewes) providing 7.8 MJ of metabolisable energy and 0.5 maintenance intake (undernourished; 6 cyclic, 7 pregnant ewes) providing 3.9 MJ of metabolisable energy per ewe. Uterine gene expression was measured using Agilent 15 K Sheep Microarray chip on day 14 of estrus or pregnancy. Functional bioinformatics analyses were performed using PANTHER (Protein ANalysis THrough Evolutionary Relationships) Classification System. Pregnancy affected the expression of 18 genes in both control and undernourished ewes, underscoring the relevance for embryo-maternal interactions. Immune system evidenced by classical interferon stimulated genes were activated in control and -in a lesser extent-in undernourished pregnant vs cyclic ewes. Genes involved in uterine remodeling such as protein metabolism were also upregulated with the presence of an embryo in control and undernourished ewes. However, relevant genes for the adaptation of the uterus to the embryo were differentially expressed between pregnant vs cyclic ewes both in control and undernourished groups. Undernutrition alone led to an overall weak activation of immune system pathways both in cyclic and pregnant ewes. Data revealed that cellular and immune adaptations of the uterus to pregnancy are dependent on the nutritional status.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victoria de Brun
- Laboratorio de Endocrinología y Metabolismo Animal, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay.
| | - Juan J Loor
- Department of Animal Sciences and Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Hugo Naya
- Departamento de Bioinformática, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Andrea Graña-Baumgartner
- Laboratorio de Endocrinología y Metabolismo Animal, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Mario Vailati-Riboni
- Department of Animal Sciences and Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Omar Bulgari
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Italy
| | - Khuram Shahzad
- Department of Animal Sciences and Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - José Alfonso Abecia
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Cecilia Sosa
- Departamento de Anatomía Patológica, Medicina Legal, Forense y Toxicología, Universidad de Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ana Meikle
- Laboratorio de Endocrinología y Metabolismo Animal, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Abecia JA, Forcada F, Vázquez MI, Muiño-Blanco T, Cebrián-Pérez JA, Pérez-Pe R, Casao A. Role of melatonin on embryo viability in sheep. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 31:82-92. [PMID: 32188544 DOI: 10.1071/rd18308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is a natural hormone synthesised in the pineal gland, the activity of which is regulated by day-night perception and dictates seasonal rhythms in reproduction in ovine species. Exogenous melatonin, administered via subcutaneous implants, is used to prolong the breeding season of ewes and can increase the proportion of pregnant ewes (fertility rate) and litter size. The increased proportion of ewes that become pregnant and the number of lambs born per lambing among melatonin-treated sheep may be caused by increased embryo survival, through enhanced luteal function, reduced antiluteolytic mechanisms, or improved embryo quality. This review focuses on the effects of melatonin on embryo viability and summarises the processes by which this hormone affects the ovary, follicle, oocyte, corpus luteum and embryo. Moreover, the effects of melatonin on the mechanisms of invivo maternal recognition of pregnancy in sheep and the protective action that it appears to have on the invitro procedures that are used to obtain healthy embryos are reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José-Alfonso Abecia
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Facultad de Veterinaria, Miguel Servet, 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Fernando Forcada
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Facultad de Veterinaria, Miguel Servet, 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - María-Isabel Vázquez
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Agronomía y Veterinaria, Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto, Ruta Nacional 36, Km 601, 5800 Río Cuarto, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Teresa Muiño-Blanco
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Facultad de Veterinaria, Miguel Servet, 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - José A Cebrián-Pérez
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Facultad de Veterinaria, Miguel Servet, 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Rosaura Pérez-Pe
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Facultad de Veterinaria, Miguel Servet, 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Adriana Casao
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Facultad de Veterinaria, Miguel Servet, 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Abstract
AbstractThe reduced fertility that is becoming more evident in high yielding dairy cows may be related to many factors including changes in milk production, food intake and fluctuations in body condition. Metabolic and production markers have been studied as a way of predicting success to a particular artificial insemination. Successful conception to a particular service was not associated with milk production, body condition or plasma concentrations of several indicators of metabolic state around the time if insemination. This highlights the importance of time of information collection in fertility management programmes. Increased food intake may reduce systemic progesterone concentrations. This is more evident in sheep than cattle, but a positive relationship between systemic progesterone early post mating and establishment of pregnancy in cattle has been reported. However, progesterone concentrations in the ovarian vein and endometrium are not strongly correlated with systemic progesterone. Thus, the significance of modest changes in systemic progesterone in affecting oocyte and embryo development must be questioned. Blood urea concentrations can be altered by diet, and reduced pregnancy rates have been reported in cows with high urea concentrations. However, in other recent studies, no difference was reported in serum urea in cows that conceived and those that failed to conceive. Pregnancy rate was equally high in heifers when in-vitro produced embryos were transferred to heifers on high and low urea diets. When embryos were produced in sheep on high and low dietary urea, the effects on embryo development appear to occur early in the developmental process, suggesting a substantial effect on the development of the oocyte. The developmental capacity of oocytes and quality of embryos is reduced in cattle maintained on extremely high dietary intakes. Oocyte developmental capacity is reduced in cows of higher genetic merit and embryo quality can be substantially reduced in the early postpartum period. Collectively, these results suggest that high dietary intake or high metabolic load is deleterious to normal oocyte development and establishment of pregnancy. This highlights the importance of further studies on the effect of dietary intake on metabolic state and follicle, oocyte and embryo development. In a practical context, these results highlight the importance of nutritional management and avoiding changes in the amount or type of diet around the time of mating in high-production dairy cows.
Collapse
|
7
|
Grazul-Bilska AT, Thammasiri J, Kraisoon A, Reyaz A, Bass CS, Kaminski SL, Navanukraw C, Redmer DA. Expression of progesterone receptor protein in the ovine uterus during the estrous cycle: Effects of nutrition, arginine and FSH. Theriogenology 2017; 108:7-15. [PMID: 29175682 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Revised: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
To evaluate expression of progesterone receptor (PGR) AB in follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)-treated or non-treated sheep administered with arginine (Arg) or saline (Sal) fed a control (C), excess (O) or restricted (U) diet, uterine tissues were collected at the early, mid and/or late luteal phases. In exp. 1, ewes from each diet were randomly assigned to one of two treatments, Arg or Sal administration three times daily from day 0 of the first estrous cycle until uterine tissue collection. In exp. 2, ewes were injected twice daily with FSH on days 13-15 of the first estrous cycle. Uterine tissues were immunostained to detect PGR followed by image analysis. PGR were detected in luminal epithelium (LE), endometrial glands (EG), endometrial stroma (ES), myometrium (Myo), and endometrial and myometrial blood vessels. The percentage of PR-positive cells and/or intensity of staining were affected by phase of the estrous cycle, plane of nutrition, and/or FSH but not by Arg. In exp. 1, percentage of PGR-positive cells in LE and EG but not in ES and Myo was greater at the early and mid than late luteal phase, was not affected by plane of nutrition, and was similar in LE and EG. Intensity of staining was affected by phase of the estrous cycle and plane of nutrition in LE, EG and Myo, and was the greatest in LE, less in EG, and least in ES and Myo. In exp. 2, percentage of PGR-positive cells in LE, EG, ES and Myo was affected by phase of the estrous cycle, but not by plane of nutrition; was greater at the early than mid luteal phase; and was greatest in LE and EG, less in luminal (superficial) ES and Myo and least in deep ES. Intensity of staining was affected by phase of the estrous cycle and plane of nutrition in all compartments but ES, and was the greatest in LE and luminal EG, less in deep EG, and least in ES and Myo. Comparison of data for FSH (superovulated) and Sal-treated (non-superovulated) ewes demonstrated that FSH affected PR expression in all evaluated uterine compartments depending on plane of nutrition and phase of the estrous cycle. Thus, PGR are differentially distributed in uterine compartments, and PGR expression is affected by nutritional plane and FSH, but not Arg depending on phase of the estrous cycle. Such changes in dynamics of PGR expression indicate that diet plays a regulatory role and that FSH-treatment may alter uterine functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna T Grazul-Bilska
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA.
| | - Jiratti Thammasiri
- Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center for Sustainable Economy (ABRCSE), Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Aree Kraisoon
- Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center for Sustainable Economy (ABRCSE), Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Arshi Reyaz
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA
| | - Casie S Bass
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA
| | - Samantha L Kaminski
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA
| | - Chainarong Navanukraw
- Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center for Sustainable Economy (ABRCSE), Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Dale A Redmer
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Rickard JP, Ryan G, Hall E, de Graaf SP, Hermes R. Using transrectal ultrasound to examine the effect of exogenous progesterone on early embryonic loss in sheep. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0183659. [PMID: 28841708 PMCID: PMC5571956 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0183659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The financial impact of early embryonic loss in Australia may be as high as $137 million AUD/year. Embryos may be lost due to environmental conditions, or maternal factors such as nutrition or progesterone (P4) profiles. However, studies on the supplementation of P4 during early pregnancy have returned contradictory results, partly as a reliable method of detecting embryos in the early stages of gestation (<day 20) has yet be established. As such, Merino ewes (n = 62) were either not supplemented (control) or were given exogenous P4 at the time of insemination (day 0) or 3 days later (day 3). Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) was performed on day 10, 12, 14, 17, 19 and 29 following laparoscopic artificial insemination. Transcutaneous ultrasound (TCUS) was performed on day 54 to confirm pregnancy and peripheral blood was collected for hormone analysis on day 19 to compare the accuracy of all three pregnancy diagnosis methods. Data were then analysed in developmental periods. The percentage of ewes detected as pregnant by TRUS during pre-, peri- and post implantation was 66% (41/62; day 12 and 14), 61% (38/62; day 17 and 19) and 58% (36/62; day 29), respectively. TCUS during established gestation recorded a pregnancy rate of 60% (37/62). The sensitivity of TRUS to correctly diagnose ewes as pregnant during pre-, peri- and post implantation was 68% (25/37), 89% (33/37) and 100% (36/36), respectively, while the sensitivity to correctly identify multiples was 49% (16/33), 60% (21/35) and 97% (34/35), respectively (P<0.05). The majority of embryonic loss occurred between pre- and peri- implantation (0.9±0.15 per ewe; P<0.001). No further loss was recorded after this point. Ewes that were given P4 at day 0 had significantly higher embryonic loss (77%) compared to the control (52%) and day 3-ewes (56%; P<0.05). These results show TRUS is a viable tool for investigating early embryonic loss and that the variability noted in previous P4 supplementation studies may be due to variation in time and length of treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Paige Rickard
- Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, NSW, Sydney, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Gabrielle Ryan
- Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, NSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Evelyn Hall
- Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, NSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Simon Paul de Graaf
- Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, NSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Robert Hermes
- Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, NSW, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Vázquez M, Forcada F, Sosa C, Casao A, Sartore I, Fernández-Foren A, Meikle A, Abecia J. Effect of exogenous melatonin on embryo viability and uterine environment in undernourished ewes. Anim Reprod Sci 2013; 141:52-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2013.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2013] [Revised: 06/10/2013] [Accepted: 07/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
10
|
Debus N, Chavatte-Palmer P, Viudes G, Camous S, Roséfort A, Hassoun P. Maternal periconceptional undernutrition in Merinos d'Arles sheep: 1. Effects on pregnancy and reproduction results of dams and offspring growth performances. Theriogenology 2012; 77:1453-65. [PMID: 22326588 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2011] [Revised: 11/15/2011] [Accepted: 11/19/2011] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Maternal undernutrition during gestation can condition offspring adult health, with the periconceptional period pointed out as a key period. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of maternal periconceptional undernutrition on pregnancy and offspring growth performance in sheep. 52 Merinos d'Arles ewes were fed to requirements (control group, C), whereas 64 ewes received 50% of their dietary needs from -15 to +30 days post-conception (restricted group, R). Thereafter, both groups were fed according to needs. Maternal body weight (BW), body condition score (BCS) and Non Esterified Fatty Acids (NEFA), progesterone, leptin and cortisol plasma concentrations were monitored weekly during the restriction period and the following month, then monthly until weaning. Lambs were weighed weekly until weaning at 22 kg BW, then monthly. Plasma leptin was monitored monthly in lambs. The BW, BCS, and leptin concentrations were significantly decreased, whereas NEFA and cortisol concentrations were increased in R dams. Maximum progesterone concentration was higher in R ewes that had a high (10-25%) vs. low (0-10%) BW loss during restriction (27.9 ± 2.59 vs. 20.8 ± 2.00 ng/mL, P < 0.05). Overall, gestation was significantly longer in the R group (151.0 ± 0.3 vs. 149.4 ± 0.4 days, P < 0.001). There was no difference between groups for pregnancy rates, prolificacy, birth weight and lamb mortality, but the proportion of male lambs was significantly higher in the R group, only for singletons (16/26 vs. 9/26, P < 0.05). Lamb growth was not significantly modified by treatment. Leptin concentrations at birth were significantly lower in R vs. C males (6.15 ± 0.13 ng/mL vs. 7.42 ± 0.36 ng/mL, P < 0.05), whereas in females, leptin concentrations were significantly higher in R vs. C lambs at 4 mo of age (7.31 ± 0.27 ng/mL vs. 6.41 ± 0.29 ng/mL, P < 0.05). These results indicate that maternal periconceptional undernutrition in a hardy breed does not significantly affect lamb birth weight and growth rates, in contrast to previous reports in other breeds, suggesting that caution must be taken when extrapolating programming data between breeds and breeding conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N Debus
- INRA, UMR868 Systèmes d'Elevage Méditerranéens et Tropicaux, SELMET, 2 place Viala, F-34060 Montpellier, France.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Viñoles C, Glover KMM, Paganoni BL, Milton JTB, Martin GB. Embryo losses in sheep during short-term nutritional supplementation. Reprod Fertil Dev 2012; 24:1040-7. [DOI: 10.1071/rd11281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2011] [Accepted: 02/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
To test whether a nutritional supplement fed from 6 days before until 15 days after insemination reduces progesterone concentrations and increases embryo losses, Merino ewes were artificially inseminated (Day 0). Control ewes (n = 116) were not supplemented whereas Lupin6 ewes (n = 112) were supplemented with 500 g lupin grain daily for 6 days before insemination, and Lupin6+15 ewes (n = 122) from 6 days before until 15 days after insemination. There were no major differences between treatment groups in progesterone concentrations over the first 17 days of pregnancy. Embryo losses over Days 10–17 were lower in the Lupin6+15 than in the Control and Lupin6 groups, but the opposite occurred from Day 17–30. The concentrations of insulin and IGF-I were higher in Lupin6+15 ewes on Days 5, 12 and 17, compared with Lupin6 and Control ewes, while leptin concentrations decreased by Day 17 in the Lupin6+15 group. We conclude that feeding ewes for 15 days after mating improved embryo survival, which was associated with an increase in the concentrations of metabolic hormones and lower progesterone concentrations. However, the decrease in leptin concentrations promoted by the interruption of supplementation seems be linked to increased embryo mortality up to Day 30.
Collapse
|
12
|
Vázquez MI, Abecia JA, Forcada F, Casao A. Effects of exogenous melatonin on in vivo embryo viability and oocyte competence of undernourished ewes after weaning during the seasonal anestrus. Theriogenology 2010; 74:618-26. [PMID: 20570337 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2009] [Revised: 03/05/2010] [Accepted: 03/13/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of exogenous melatonin on embryo viability and oocyte competence in post-partum undernourished ewes during the seasonal anestrus. At parturition (mid-Feb), 36 adult Rasa Aragonesa ewes were assigned to one of two groups: treated (+MEL) or not treated (-MEL) with a subcutaneous implant of melatonin (Melovine(R), CEVA) on the day of lambing. After 45 d of suckling, lambs were weaned, ewes were synchronized using intravaginal pessaries, and fed to provide 1.5x (Control, C) or 0.5x (Low, L) times daily maintenance requirements. Thus, ewes were divided into four groups: C-MEL, C+MEL, L-MEL, and L+MEL. At estrus (Day=0), ewes were mated. At Day 5 after estrus, embryos were recovered by mid-ventral laparotomy and classified based on their developmental stage and morphology. After embryo collection, ovaries were recovered and oocytes were classified and selected for use in in vitro fertilization (IVF). Neither diet nor melatonin treatment had a significant effect on ovulation rate and on the number of ova recovered per ewe. Melatonin treatment significantly improved the number of fertilized embryos/corpus luteum (CL) (-MEL: 0.35 +/- 0.1, +MEL: 0.62 +/- 0.1; P = 0.08), number of viable embryos/CL (-MEL: 0.23 +/- 0.1, +MEL: 0.62 +/- 0.1; P < 0.01), viability rate (-MEL: 46.6%, +MEL: 83.9%; P < 0.05), and pregnancy rate (-MEL: 26.3%, +MEL: 76.5%; P < 0.05). In particular, exogenous melatonin improved embryo viability in undernourished ewes (L-MEL: 40%, L+MEL: 100%, P < 0.01). Neither nutrition nor exogenous melatonin treatments significantly influenced the competence of oocytes during IVF. Treatment groups did not differ significantly in the number of healthy oocytes used for IVF, number of cleaved embryos, or number of blastocysts and, consequently, the groups had similar cleavage and blastocyst rates. In conclusion, melatonin treatments improved ovine embryo viability during anestrus, particularly in undernourished post-partum ewes, although the effects of melatonin did not appear to be mediated at the oocyte competence level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M I Vázquez
- Departamento de Producción Animal y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, Zaragoza, Spain (C.P. 50013).
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Vázquez M, Forcada F, Casao A, Sosa C, Palacín I, Abecia J. Effects of melatonin and undernutrition on the viability of ovine embryos during anestrus and the breeding season. Anim Reprod Sci 2009; 112:83-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2008.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2008] [Revised: 03/17/2008] [Accepted: 04/02/2008] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
|
14
|
Vázquez MI, Forcada F, Casao A, Abecia JA, Sosa C, Palacín I. Undernutrition and exogenous melatonin can affect the in vitro developmental competence of ovine oocytes on a seasonal basis. Reprod Domest Anim 2009; 45:677-84. [PMID: 19281597 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2008.01329.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated the effects of exogenous melatonin and level of nutrition on oocyte competence, in vitro fertilization (IVF), and early embryonic development in sheep during seasonal anoestrus (SA) and the reproductive season (RS). Adult Rasa Aragonesa ewes were assigned randomly to one of four treatment groups in two experiments based on a 2 x 2 x 2 factorial design. Individuals were treated (+MEL) or not treated (-MEL) with a subcutaneous implant of melatonin for 42 days and then were fed 1.5 (Control, C) or 0.5 (Low, L) times the daily maintenance requirements for 20 days. Ewes were synchronized and mated at oestrus (Day = 0). On Day 5, ovaries were collected and oocytes were used for IVF. Season had a significant (p < 0.01) effect on the number of oocytes recovered (RS: 19.6 +/- 1.0; SA: 14.5 +/- 1.0) and the number of healthy oocytes (RS: 13.9 +/- 0.7; SA: 9.0 +/- 0.7). In the RS, neither nutrition nor melatonin had a significant effect on the evaluated oocytes quality parameters although melatonin implants appeared to reduce the number of unhealthy oocytes in the undernourished group (p < 0.05). During SA, in undernourished ewes exogenous melatonin tended to increase the number of healthy (L+MEL: 9.4 +/- 1.0, L-MEL: 7.6 +/- 1.4; p < 0.1), and significantly improved both cleaved oocytes (L+MEL: 7.0 +/- 0.7, L-MEL: 4.1 +/- 0.9; p < 0.05) and blastocyst rate (L+MEL: 37.2, L-MEL: 21.9%; p < 0.05). In conclusion, oocyte competence in ewes was affected by season, and melatonin implants appeared to improve developmental competence in the seasonal anoestrous period, particularly in experimentally undernourished ewes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M I Vázquez
- Departamento de Producción Animal y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Facultad deVeterinaria, Zaragoza, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Sosa C, Abecia JA, Carriquiry M, Vázquez MI, Fernández-Foren A, Talmon M, Forcada F, Meikle A. Effect of undernutrition on the uterine environment during maternal recognition of pregnancy in sheep. Reprod Fertil Dev 2009; 21:869-81. [DOI: 10.1071/rd09051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2009] [Accepted: 05/20/2009] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The effects of pregnancy and undernutrition on endometrial gene expression were investigated in ewes fed all or half their maintenance requirements and killed on Day 14 of pregnancy or of the oestrous cycle. The endometrial expression of progesterone, oestrogen, oxytocin and interferon receptors (PR, ERα, OXTR and IFNAR, respectively), cyclo-oxygenase (COX)-2, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), insulin-like growth factors (IGF)-I and -II, and IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R) was studied by immunohistochemistry or real-time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction. The luminal epithelium of cyclic control ewes was devoid of PR staining and had relatively high levels of ERα, OXTR, COX-2 and IFNAR2. The presence of a conceptus decreased the in vitro uterine secretion of prostaglandin (PG) F2α and the expression of IFNAR2 in most cell types, and increased the gene expression of IGF-I and IGF-II. Undernutrition tended to increase ERα protein and gene, but decreased in vitro uterine secretion of PGE2 and the gene expression of IFNAR2 in cyclic ewes. There was no effect of undernutrition on pregnancy rates or the number of conceptuses recovered. Consistent with this, undernutrition of pregnant ewes did not have any effect on uterine gene expression. Moreover, in cases where changes were observed in cyclic ewes, these changes were negated when a conceptus was present.
Collapse
|
16
|
Effect of exogenous melatonin on the ovary, the embryo and the establishment of pregnancy in sheep. Animal 2008; 2:399-404. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731107001383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
|
17
|
Abecia JA, Sosa C, Forcada F, Meikle A. The effect of undernutrition on the establishment of pregnancy in the ewe. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 46:367-78. [PMID: 16824446 DOI: 10.1051/rnd:2006018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
The relationship between nutrition and reproduction in sheep has been the subject of research in several international groups. This review will particularly focus on the effects of undernutrition on the potential causes of reproductive failure including abnormalities of the ovum or the embryo, luteal inadequacy and failure of the supply of progesterone to the uterus, or the mechanisms involved in maternal recognition of pregnancy. The level of nutrition and peripheral progesterone concentrations are inversely related, and increased rates of embryo loss, associated with higher progesterone concentrations in ewes with low levels of nutrition have been reported. Undernutrition may act through changes in the distribution of progesterone in the endometrium. Thus, lower endometrial levels on day 5 of the cycle in ewes fed half of their maintenance requirements have been observed, providing a link between the known role of progesterone in embryo survival by the modulation of uterine function and the higher embryo losses found in undernourished ewes. The evidence of an effect of maternal nutrition on IFNtau secretion from the conceptus and of PGF2alpha production from the uterus is presented. Moreover, undernutrition provokes a reduction in the sensitivity of the endometrium to progesterone that may affect embryo survival. Finally, a state of undernutrition induces changes in the endometrial sensitivity to steroid hormones at early stages of pregnancy that could adversely alter uterine environment to the detriment of embryo survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José-Alfonso Abecia
- Animal Production and Food Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Miguel Servet, 177. 50013 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Borowczyk E, Caton JS, Redmer DA, Bilski JJ, Weigl RM, Vonnahme KA, Borowicz PP, Kirsch JD, Kraft KC, Reynolds LP, Grazul-Bilska AT. Effects of plane of nutrition on in vitro fertilization and early embryonic development in sheep1. J Anim Sci 2006; 84:1593-9. [PMID: 16699117 DOI: 10.2527/2006.8461593x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nutrition has been shown to influence several reproductive functions, including hormone production, oocyte competence and fertilization, and early embryonic development. To determine the effects of maternal diet on in vitro fertilization (IVF) and early embryonic development, ewes (n = 18; 47.0 +/- 1.5 kg of initial BW) were divided into control and underfed (60% of control) nutritional planes for 8 wk before oocyte collection. Pelleted diets containing 2.4 Mcal of ME/kg and 13% CP (DM basis) were fed once daily. During the first 4-wk acclimation phase, control and underfed ewes were fed 1,000 and 600 g/d, respectively. From wk 4 to 8, control (adequate) ewes were fed to maintain BW and offered 720 g/d, whereas underfed ewes received 432 g/d (60% restricted). Synchronization of estrus was performed using progestagen sponges for 14 d. Follicular development was induced by twice daily injections of FSH on d 13 (5 units/injection) and 14 (4 units/injection) of the estrous cycle. Oocytes were collected from all visible follicles on d 15 of the estrous cycle. After IVF, the proportion of developing embryos was evaluated throughout an 8-d culture period. Under-nutrition decreased (P < 0.006) the rate of cleavage, number of blastocysts per ewe, and rate of blastocyst formation (from 79 to 64%; from 3.3 to 0.8; and from 31 to 8%, respectively). However, the number of visible follicles, total number of oocytes, number of healthy oocytes, percentage of healthy oocytes, number of cleaved oocytes, and morula formation per ewe were similar for control and underfed ewes. These data indicate that undernutrition of donor ewes, resulting in lower BW and BCS, has a negative effect on oocyte quality, which results in lower rates of cleavage and blastocyst formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Borowczyk
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, 58105, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND To evaluate the risk of spontaneous abortion in relation to maternal pre-pregnant underweight. METHODS The study was designed as a cohort study within the framework of the Danish National Birth Cohort (DNBC). The participants were a total of 23 821 women recruited consecutively to the DNBC from October 1, 1997 to March 31, 1999 and interviewed subsequently. The pregnant women were recruited in first half of pregnancy and interviewed about pre-pregnant body size, obstetric history, exposures in pregnancy, and socio-demographic factors. Pregnancies were followed-up regarding spontaneous abortion. Relative risk of spontaneous abortion was calculated as Hazard Ratios using Cox regression with delayed entry. RESULTS The outcome measure was spontaneous abortion. The hazard ratio for spontaneous abortion in women with a pre-pregnant body mass index (BMI) below 18.5 was 1.24 (95% confidence limits 0.95-1.63) compared to women with pre-pregnant BMI 18.5-24.9. Women with a BMI of 25 or more had a smaller increase in risk of spontaneous abortion. Adjustment for maternal age, parity, previous miscarriages, and lifestyle factors did not affect the estimates substantially, neither did exclusion of women with metabolic or eating disorders. CONCLUSION These results indicate that pre-pregnant underweight may affect the risk of spontaneous abortion negatively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stine Helgstrand
- Department of Social Medicine, Institute of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Svanemøllevej 25, DK-2100 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Brasil FB, Faria TS, Costa WS, Sampaio FJB, Ramos CF. The pups’ endometrium morphology is affected by maternal malnutrition during suckling. Maturitas 2005; 51:405-12. [PMID: 16039415 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2004.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2004] [Revised: 10/19/2004] [Accepted: 10/21/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to determine the effects of maternal protein and energy malnutrition during lactation on the endometrial structures of the offspring at puberty. METHODS At parturition, dams were randomly assigned to the following groups: control group (C), with free access to a standard laboratory diet containing 23% protein; protein-restricted (PR) group, with free access to an isoenergy and protein-restricted diet containing 8% protein; and energy-restricted (ER) group, receiving standard laboratory diet in restricted quantities. After weaning, all female pups had free access to standard laboratory diet. At puberty, the animals were sacrificed with pentobarbital and only females on the diestrum stage were used for the analyses. The stereological method used for quantifying the uterine endometrium was the M42 test system. RESULTS When compared to C group, both PR and ER groups presented a significant reduction in the length density of the glands (PR=53%, ER=35.7%, p<0.001), in the volumetric density of the epithelium (PR=49%, ER=38%, p<0.001) and lumen (PR=42.7%, p<0.001; ER=23.8%, p<0.001) and in the surface density of the inner (PR=22%, ER=13.8%, p<0.001) and outer (PR=55.4%, p<0.01; ER=40.6%, p<0.001) glands. The volumetric density of the stroma was significantly higher in both PR (114%, p<0.001) and ER (117%, p<0.001) groups. In all parameters studied, there was no significant difference between PR and ER groups. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that the protein and energy restriction during lactation leads to an atrophy of the uterine endometrial glands of the offspring at puberty.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Flávia B Brasil
- Urogenital Research Unit, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Abecia JA, Forcada F, Valares JA, Zúñiga O, Kindahl H. Effect of exogenous melatonin on in vivo and in vitro prostaglandin secretion in Rasa Aragonesa ewes. Theriogenology 2003; 60:1345-55. [PMID: 14511787 DOI: 10.1016/s0093-691x(03)00168-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The effect of exogenous melatonin on prostaglandin secretion was measured on Rasa Aragonesa ewes. Fourteen ewes received an 18 mg melatonin implant (M+) on 10 April and were compared with 13 control animals (without implants M-). Twenty days later, intravaginal pessaries were inserted in all animals to induce a synchronized oestrus (day 0). On day 14, ewes were injected, i.v., with 0.5 IU oxytocin. Plasma 15-ketodihydro-PGF(2alpha) (PGFM) concentrations were measured to assess uterine secretory responsiveness to oxytocin. After euthanasia, pieces of endometrium were collected to determine progesterone content and PGE(2) and PGF(2alpha) secretion in vitro, in the presence or absence of either 20 microg/ml recombinant ovine interferon-tau (roIFNt) or 1 nmol/l oxytocin in the medium. Endometrial progesterone content was similar in the two treatments (M+: 50.25+/-17.34 ng/mg tissue, M-: 43.08+/-11.21 ng/mg tissue). M+ ewes that responded to oxytocin had significantly higher plasma PGFM concentrations between 10 and 80 min after oxytocin administration, a higher mean PGFM peak (P<0.001), higher plasma PGFM levels after the challenge (P<0.05) and higher plasma progesterone concentrations (P<0.01) than control ewes. In the in vitro experiment, M+ and M- control samples secreted similar amounts of PGE(2). The presence of roIFNtau and oxytocin only stimulated PGE(2) production (P<0.05) in M- tissues. Control M+ tissues secreted higher amounts of PGF(2alpha) (P=0.07) and PGF(2alpha) secretion was significantly (P<0.01) stimulated by roIFNtau. Oxytocin produced this effect only in M- samples (P<0.01). In conclusion, although previous studies have demonstrated a positive effect of melatonin on lamb production, PGF(2alpha) secretion is higher in vitro and the PGE(2):PGF(2alpha) ratio is unfavourable in response to IFNtau, which could affect embryo survival. Whether or not these mechanisms are similar in pregnant ewes remains to be elucidated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José-Alfonso Abecia
- Department of Animal Production and Food Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet, 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Boland MP, Lonergan P, O'Callaghan D. Effect of nutrition on endocrine parameters, ovarian physiology, and oocyte and embryo development. Theriogenology 2001; 55:1323-40. [PMID: 11327687 DOI: 10.1016/s0093-691x(01)00485-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive efficiency in high yielding dairy cows has decreased over the past 50 years, despite significant gains in genetic selection for increased milk output. One possible reason for this decline has been a change in the nutritional intake to meet the increased energy and protein demands for higher milk production. Excess energy intake in sheep will lead to significant reductions in progesterone concentrations; the effects in cattle are not so clear. Nutrition, unless radically changed, will have little effect on gonadotropin concentrations in ruminants, and this is in contrast to the situation for pigs and for primates, where very short-term nutritional changes manifest themselves in altered gonadotropin secretion. Cattle with reduced energy intake have smaller dominant follicles and more three-wave cycles, compared with animals on higher feed intakes. One of the main areas where nutrition influences reproductive efficiency is at the level of embryo production. Several studies indicate that excess energy intake reduces the response to superovulation and also decrease the yield of embryos and alters expression of some gene constructs within the developing embryo. The mechanism of this effect is not clear but indications are that the quality of the oocytes may be compromised. Indeed recent data indicate that nutritional changes around the time of mating may have detrimental effects on the establishment of pregnancy in heifers. Thus, nutritional balancing is critical for high-yielding dairy cows, in particular. The challenge remains to modify nutritional and management strategies in such cows to maintain the levels of production made possible by genetic selection and still maintain an acceptable level of fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M P Boland
- Department of Animal Science & Production, University College Dublin, Belfield, Ireland
| | | | | |
Collapse
|