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Gautier C, Aurich J, Melchert M, Wagner LH, Kaps M, Okada CTC, Ertl R, Walter I, Aurich C. Endocrine changes induced by GnRH immunisation and subsequent early re-stimulation of testicular function with a GnRH agonist in stallions. Reprod Fertil Dev 2024; 36:RD23185. [PMID: 38237640 DOI: 10.1071/rd23185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Resumption of testicular function after gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) immunisation varies among individual animals and some stallions regain fertility only after a prolonged time. AIMS This study evaluated endocrine effects of GnRH immunisation and early subsequent re-stimulation with a GnRH agonist. We hypothesised that GnRH agonist treatment advances resumption of normal endocrine function in GnRH-vaccinated stallions. METHODS Shetland stallions were assigned to an experimental and a control group (n =6 each). Experimental stallions were GnRH-immunised twice, 4weeks apart. Each experimental stallion was hemicastrated together with an age-matched control animal when testosterone concentration decreased below 0.3ng/mL. Three weeks later, daily treatment with the GnRH agonist buserelin was initiated (4μg/day for 4weeks followed by 8μg/day). The remaining testicle was removed when testosterone concentration exceeded 0.5ng/mL in vaccinated stallions. Blood was collected for LH, FSH, oestradiol and anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) analyses, and testicular and epididymal tissue were conserved for real-time qPCR and histology. KEY RESULTS GnRH vaccination reduced blood concentrations of LH and FSH, with a structural deterioration of testicular tissue and disruption of spermatogenesis. Daily buserelin treatment for approximately 60days partially restored gonadotropin secretion and induced a recovery of the functional organisation of the testicular tissue with effective spermatogenesis. CONCLUSIONS Endocrine testicular function can be restored in GnRH-vaccinated stallions by daily low-dose buserelin treatment. The buserelin treatment protocol may potentially be improved regarding the dose, interval and duration. IMPLICATIONS Daily buserelin treatment can be recommended for treatment of GnRH-vaccinated stallions with prolonged inhibition of testicular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Gautier
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, Vienna 1210, Austria
| | - Jörg Aurich
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Andrology, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, Vienna 1210, Austria
| | - Maria Melchert
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Andrology, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, Vienna 1210, Austria
| | - Lisa-Hélène Wagner
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, Vienna 1210, Austria
| | - Martim Kaps
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, Vienna 1210, Austria
| | - Carolina T C Okada
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, Vienna 1210, Austria
| | - Reinhard Ertl
- VetCore Facility for Research, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, Vienna 1210, Austria
| | - Ingrid Walter
- VetCore Facility for Research, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, Vienna 1210, Austria; and Institute of Morphology, Department of Pathobiology, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, Vienna 1210, Austria
| | - Christine Aurich
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, Vienna 1210, Austria
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Gautier C, Aurich J, Kaps M, Okada CTC, Wagner LH, Melchert M, Aurich C. Re-stimulation of testicular function in GnRH-vaccinated stallions by daily GnRH agonist treatment. Theriogenology 2022; 194:27-34. [PMID: 36193591 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.09.011] [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: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
In stallions temporarily not intended for breeding, reversible suppression of testicular function by vaccination against GnRH can be of interest. In the present study, effects of GnRH agonist treatment on the resumption of testicular function after GnRH vaccination were investigated. Testis size, testosterone release, semen characteristics and behavior were evaluated. We hypothesized that GnRH agonist treatment would restore testicular function. Shetland stallions were assigned to an experimental and a control group (n = 6 each). Experimental stallions were GnRH-immunized twice, four weeks apart. Ejaculates for semen analysis and blood for analysis of testosterone concentration and GnRH antibody titers were collected. Each experimental stallion was hemicastrated together with an age-matched control animal when testosterone concentration decreased below 0.3 ng/mL. Three weeks thereafter, daily treatment with the GnRH agonist buserelin was initiated (4 μg/day for 4 weeks followed by 8 μg/day). The remaining testicle was removed when testosterone concentration exceeded 0.5 ng/mL in vaccinated stallions. Time from exposure to a mare until mounting increased in GnRH-vaccinated stallions and decreased with buserelin treatment. Total sperm count decreased after vaccination but increased only slightly in response to buserelin. Sperm motility and percentage of membrane-intact spermatozoa decreased after vaccination and returned to pre-vaccination values with buserelin treatment. Testosterone concentration and testis volume decreased after GnRH vaccination and started to increase with buserelin treatment. In conclusion, the downregulation of testicular function by GnRH vaccination can be counteracted with buserelin. This approach may be useful in GnRH-vaccinated stallions with prolonged suppression of testicular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Gautier
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Jörg Aurich
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Andrology, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martim Kaps
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Carolina T C Okada
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lisa-Hélène Wagner
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Maria Melchert
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christine Aurich
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
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Jackson A, Dowsett K. Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen in the Equine Testis: Effects of Age and Experimental Treatment1. Biol Reprod 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/biolreprod/52.monograph_series1.631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Jackson
- Departments of Anatomical Sciences The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia, 4072
| | - Kerry Dowsett
- Farm Animal Medicine and Production The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia, 4072
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Yao Z, Si W, Tian W, Ye J, Zhu R, Li X, Ji S, Zheng Q, Liu Y, Fang F. Effect of active immunization using a novel GnRH vaccine on reproductive function in rats. Theriogenology 2018; 111:1-8. [PMID: 29407422 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 01/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the effect of gonadotropin-releasing hormone 2-multiple antigen peptide (GnRH2-MAP) on reproductive function. In our study, 20-day-old male rats (n = 90) were randomly allocated to one of three treatment groups: GnRH2-MAP immunization, GnRH2 immunization, and non-immunized control groups. The immunized animals were administered three doses of GnRH2-MAP or GnRH2 vaccines from 0 to 6 weeks at 2-week intervals. The control group only received oil adjuvant. Blood and right testis samples were collected, and the left testis was weighed and its volume was measured at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 weeks after the first immunization. The serum antibody titer and testosterone concentration were determined by ELISA, and the right testis samples were collected for histological analysis. The results revealed that the serum of vaccinated rats elicited a significantly higher antibody titer and a lower T concentration compared with the control group two weeks after the first immunization (P < 0.05), but the highest antibody titer and lowest T concentration were found in animals treated with GnRH2-MAP (P < 0.05). The second immunization resulted in a significant decrease in testicular weight and volume (P < 0.05) in both immunized groups compared to the control, but these values were significantly lower in the GnRH2-MAP group than in the GnRH2 group. Furthermore, seminiferous tubules revealed more significant atrophy in the GnRH2-MAP group than in the GnRH2 group, and no sperm were observed in rats of the GnRH2-MAP group. Thus, GnRH2-MAP may be an effective antigen and a potential immunocastration vaccine with higher effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiu Yao
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources Protection and Biological Breeding in Local Livestock and Poultry, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Wenyu Si
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources Protection and Biological Breeding in Local Livestock and Poultry, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Weiguo Tian
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources Protection and Biological Breeding in Local Livestock and Poultry, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Jing Ye
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources Protection and Biological Breeding in Local Livestock and Poultry, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Rongfei Zhu
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources Protection and Biological Breeding in Local Livestock and Poultry, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Xiumei Li
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources Protection and Biological Breeding in Local Livestock and Poultry, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Shichun Ji
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources Protection and Biological Breeding in Local Livestock and Poultry, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Qianqian Zheng
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Ya Liu
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources Protection and Biological Breeding in Local Livestock and Poultry, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Fugui Fang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources Protection and Biological Breeding in Local Livestock and Poultry, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China.
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Han YG, Liu GQ, Jiang XP, Xiang XL, Huang YF, Nie B, Zhao JY, Nabeel I, Tesema B. Reversibility and safety of KISS1 metastasis suppressor gene vaccine in immunocastration of ram lambs. ASIAN-AUSTRALASIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCES 2017; 31:835-841. [PMID: 29268573 PMCID: PMC5933981 DOI: 10.5713/ajas.17.0629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the reversibility and safety of KISS1 metastasis suppressor (KISS1) gene vaccine in immunocastration. Methods Six eight-week old ram lambs were randomly divided into vaccinated and control groups. The vaccine (1 mg/ram lamb) was injected at weeks 0, 3, and 6 of the study. Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein before primary immunization and at weeks 2, 4, 6, 10, 14, 22, and 30 after primary immunization. All ram lambs were slaughtered at 38 weeks of age, and samples were collected. Results The specific anti-KISS1 antibody titers in vaccinated animals were significantly higher and the serum testosterone level was significantly lower than those in the control groups from week 4 to 14 after primary immunization (p<0.05). No significant difference was observed at weeks 22 and 30 after the primary immunization. Similar results were also found for scrotal circumference, testicular weight, length, breadth, and spermatogenesis in seminiferous tubules in week 30 after primary immunization. KS (KISS1-hepatitis B surface antigen S) fusion fragment of KISS1 gene vaccine was not detected in host cell genomic DNA of 9 tissues of the vaccinated ram lambs by polymerase chain reaction. Conclusion The effects of KISS1 gene vaccine in immunocastration were reversible and no integration events were recorded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Guo Han
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage & Herbivore, Chongqing Engineering Research Centre for Herbivores Resource Protection and Utilization, College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.,Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Gui-Qiong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Xun-Ping Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Xing-Long Xiang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Yong-Fu Huang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage & Herbivore, Chongqing Engineering Research Centre for Herbivores Resource Protection and Utilization, College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Bin Nie
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Jia-Yu Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Ijaz Nabeel
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Birhanu Tesema
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
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Wicks N, Crouch S, Pearl CA. Effects of Improvac and Bopriva on the testicular function of boars ten weeks after immunization. Anim Reprod Sci 2013; 142:149-59. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2013.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2013] [Revised: 09/11/2013] [Accepted: 09/21/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Kirkpatrick JF, Lyda RO, Frank KM. Contraceptive Vaccines for Wildlife: A Review. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 66:40-50. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2011.01003.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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Hill RA, Flint DJ, Pell JM. Antibodies as molecular mimics of biomolecules: roles in understanding physiological functions and mechanisms. ADVANCES IN PHYSIOLOGY EDUCATION 2008; 32:261-273. [PMID: 19047502 DOI: 10.1152/advan.90130.2008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Physiologists have routinely used understanding of the immune system to generate antibodies against regulatory molecules, growth factors, plasma membrane receptors, and other mammalian molecules in the development of analytical tools and assays. In taking this notion further, antibodies have been used in vivo to modulate physiological systems and to improve our understanding of their molecular interactions. To develop antibodies with physiological activity (efficacy), physiologists have worked with immunologists in developing interdisciplinary insights, requiring basic knowledge of immune system function in designing strategies to generate antibodies that interact with endogenous molecules of physiological interest, in vivo. Antibodies in different physiological systems have been shown to enhance or inhibit endogenous molecular functions. Two approaches have been used: passive and active immunization. Antibodies in these contexts have provided tools to develop further insights into molecular physiological mechanisms. Perhaps surprisingly, enhancing antibodies have been developed against a diverse set of target molecules including several members of the growth hormone/insulin-like growth factor-I axes and those of the beta(2)-adrenoceptor axis. Antibodies that inhibit the actions of somatostatin have also been developed. A further novel approach has been the development of antibodies that interact with adipose cells in vivo. These have the potential to be used in therapeutic antiobesity approaches. Antibodies with efficacy in vivo have provided new insights into molecular physiological mechanisms, enhancing our understanding of these complex processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodney A Hill
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844-2330, USA.
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Kanter M, Odabaş Ö. HISTOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION OF TESTICULAR AND ACCESSORY SEX GLANDS IN RAM LAMBS IMMUNIZED AGAINST RECOMBINANT GNRH FUSION PROTEINS. ELECTRONIC JOURNAL OF GENERAL MEDICINE 2008. [DOI: 10.29333/ejgm/82570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Elhay M, Newbold A, Britton A, Turley P, Dowsett K, Walker J. Suppression of behavioural and physiological oestrus in the mare by vaccination against GnRH. Aust Vet J 2007; 85:39-45. [PMID: 17300452 DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-0813.2006.00092.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the immunogenicity of an equine immunocontraceptive vaccine and its efficacy in controlling hormone-related behaviour. DESIGN A total of 24 mares at two sites in Australia were vaccinated with an immunocontraceptive vaccine comprising gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) conjugated to a carrier protein in immunostimulating complex as an adjuvant. Twelve animals at each site received a placebo of adjuvant alone and served as controls for seasonal oestrus, hormonal and behaviour patterns. Animals were observed for injection site reactions, ovarian and follicular activity, and serum levels of antibody, 17beta-oestradiol and progesterone in the weeks following vaccination. Mares were also examined for oestrous behaviour by teasing with a stallion. RESULTS All mares responded to vaccination. Two weeks following the second vaccination there was a peak in antibody response to GnRH that declined gradually over the following weeks. Commensurate with the elevated anti-GnRH antibody there was a marked effect on ovarian activity with a reduction in 17beta-oestradiol and progesterone levels in the 24 vaccinated mares. There was also a reduction of oestrus-related behaviour as determined by a teaser stallion. This effect lasted a minimum of 3 months and correlated with the initial level of antibody response. CONCLUSION Following a conventional two-dose immunisation regime this commercially available equine immunocontraceptive vaccine was effective at inhibiting oestrous behaviour for at least 3 months. This vaccine has a high level of safety since there were no significant local reactions nor were there any adverse systemic responses to vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Elhay
- Veterinary Medicines Research and Development, Pfizer Animal Health, Parkville, VIC 3052.
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Abstract
Advancement in technology and science and our detailed knowledge of immunology, molecular biology, microbiology, and biochemistry among other basic science disciplines have defined new directions for vaccine development strategies. The applicability of genetic engineering and proteomics along with other new technologies have played pivotal roles in introducing novel ideas in vaccinology, and resulted in developing new vaccines and improving the quality of existing ones. Subunit vaccines, recombinant vaccines, DNA vaccines and vectored vaccines are rapidly gaining scientific and public acceptance as the new generation of vaccines and are seriously considered as alternatives to current conventional vaccines. The present review focuses on recent advances in veterinary vaccinology and addresses the effects and impact of modern microbiology, immunology, and molecular biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Homayoun Shams
- Center for Pulmonary and Infectious Diseases Control, University of Texas Health Center at Tyler, 11937 US Highway 271, Tyler, TX 75708-3154, USA.
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Turkstra JA, van der Meer FJUM, Knaap J, Rottier PJM, Teerds KJ, Colenbrander B, Meloen RH. Effects of GnRH immunization in sexually mature pony stallions. Anim Reprod Sci 2005; 86:247-59. [PMID: 15766804 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2004.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2003] [Revised: 07/06/2004] [Accepted: 07/06/2004] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Immunization against gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) was studied as an alternative for the commonly used surgical castration in stallions. Two GnRH vaccines comprising non-mineral oil adjuvants were evaluated for their potential to induce high antibody titers directed against GnRH and subsequent effects on reproductive characteristics. Twelve sexually mature male hemicastrated Shetland ponies were assigned to three groups. Group 1 and 2 were injected with 1mg peptide equivalent of G6k-GnRH-tandem-dimer conjugated to ovalbumin (OVA) in CoVaccine HT adjuvant (GnRH/CoVaccine) and in Carbopol (GnRH/Carbopol), respectively, and group 3 was injected with CoVaccine HT adjuvant without antigen (controls). After immunization no adverse effects were observed with respect to the injections sites or general health. Two weeks after the second vaccination antibody titers against GnRH increased rapidly in all animals of the GnRH/CoVaccine group, at the same time reducing serum testosterone levels maximally for the further duration of the experiment. In the GnRH/Carbopol group antibody responses and effects on testosterone levels were intermediate in two stallions and not apparent in the remaining stallions of this group. Semen evaluation showed that from 2 weeks after the second immunization onwards, sperm motility was affected in all stallions treated with GnRH/CoVaccine and one stallion treated with GnRH/Carbopol. Seven weeks after the second immunization, no semen could be collected from two stallions, one of each group, due to suppressed libido. Histological examination of the testes, 15 weeks after the initial immunization, demonstrated reduction in seminiferous tubuli diameters in all stallions of the GnRH/CoVaccine group and one stallion of the GnRH/Carbopol group. Furthermore, spermatogenesis was extremely disorganized in these stallions, as indicated by absence of the lumen in the seminiferous tubules, the absence of spermatozoa and spermatids in the tubular cross-sections and the impossibility to determine the stage of the tubular cross-sections. Testis size was also substantially reduced in three out of four stallions treated with GnRH/CoVaccine. The results demonstrate that two immunizations with G6k-GnRH-tandem-dimer-OVA conjugate in a suitable adjuvant such as CoVaccine HT caused a rapid and complete reduction of serum testosterone levels in sexually mature stallions, subsequently leading to reduced sperm motility and affected testis function, while no adverse reactions were observed after immunizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Turkstra
- Pepscan Systems, Edelhertweg 15, 8219 PH Lelystad, The Netherlands.
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Ferro VA, Khan MA, Latimer VS, Brown D, Urbanski HF, Stimson WH. Immunoneutralisation of GnRH-I, without cross-reactivity to GnRH-II, in the development of a highly specific anti-fertility vaccine for clinical and veterinary use. J Reprod Immunol 2001; 51:109-29. [PMID: 11543851 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-0378(01)00071-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, several forms of gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) molecules have been isolated from primate brain. These molecules are very similar in sequence and this raises the question of whether previously developed neutralisation vaccines based on GnRH (now termed GnRH-I) would remove other forms of GnRH (namely GnRH-II) as well. As the function of these other molecules has not yet been clearly defined, potential health risks could exist by their ablation. In view of the high sequence homology between the molecules, this paper describes the production of highly specific polyclonal antibodies against GnRH-I and GnRH-II, with negligible cross-reactivity. The ultimate aim of this is to develop an anti-fertility vaccine which does not present any inappropriate side-effects, caused by neutralisation of a GnRH molecule which may or may not be directly involved in reproduction. Several formulations were investigated, based on analogues of the following molecules, conjugated to tetanus toxoid: 1. GnRH-I pGlu-His-Trp-Ser-Try-Gly-Leu-Arg-Pro-Gly-NH2 and 2. GnRH-II pGlu-His-Trp-Ser-His-Gly-Trp-Tyr-Pro-Gly-NH2. The specificity of the antibodies produced was examined, together with effects on fertility and any inappropriate side-effects. Immunostaining of hypothalamic sections was carried out, using the generated antisera, to determine the regional distribution of GnRH-I and GnRH-II neurones, as well as to further evaluate the specificity of the antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- V A Ferro
- Department of Immunology, University of Strathclyde, SIBS Building, 27 Taylor Street, Glasgow G4 ONR, UK.
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Tshewang U, Dowsett KF, Knott LM, Trigg TE. Preliminary study of ovarian activity in fillies treated with a GnRH vaccine. Aust Vet J 1997; 75:663-7. [PMID: 9325546 DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-0813.1997.tb15366.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of two doses (200 and 400 mg) of a water-soluble gonadotrophin-releasing hormone vaccine on the ovarian activity of 2-year-old fillies. DESIGN A controlled vaccination dose rate experiment. ANIMALS Six 2-year-old Australian Stock Horse fillies were randomly allocated to three treatment groups; unvaccinated controls, those receiving 200 mg of the vaccine and those receiving 400 mg of the vaccine. RESULTS Ovarian activity of the treated fillies was suppressed at the peak of breeding season while that of untreated controls continued normally. The control fillies displayed oestrous activity and behaviour. Suppression of ovarian activity occurred for 25 and 30 weeks in the 200 and 400 mg groups, respectively. These differences were not significant. Ovarian activity ceased 2 to 3 weeks after primary vaccination. Antibody titres were low (330) until after the booster immunisation when they rapidly peaked at 22,000 and 28,000 in the 200 mg and 400 mg groups, respectively. Plasma progesterone concentrations of the treated fillies remained below 3.18 nmol/L while GnRH was suppressed. The vaccine had no significant effect on plasma androstenedione concentrations. Recovery from the effect of the vaccine was associated with development of ovarian follicles, normal oestrous behaviour and ovulation. Three of the four treated fillies and one of the controls conceived during the next breeding season and foaled normally. All the treated fillies conceived and produced normal foals in the following two breeding seasons. CONCLUSION Both dose rates suppressed ovarian function and prevented oestrous behaviour. These effects were reversible and the subsequent fertility of the vaccinated fillies was normal.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Tshewang
- Veterinary Science Farm, University of Queensland
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16
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Ferro VA, Stimson WH. Immunoneutralisation of gonadotrophin releasing hormone: a potential treatment for oestrogen-dependent breast cancer. Eur J Cancer 1997; 33:1468-78. [PMID: 9337691 DOI: 10.1016/s0959-8049(97)00126-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the therapeutic potential of active immunisation with GnRH-glycys-PPD in a hormone-dependent experimental model. Mammary tumours were induced in female rats using dimethylbenzanthracene (DMBA) and the effects of GnRH immunoneutralisation on tumour development were evaluated. High titres of anti-GnRH IgG correlated with a decrease in oestrogen levels and subsequent tumour suppression. A comparison of immunised and non-immunised animals showed that when GnRH-specific IgG levels were at a maximum titre (80-100 micrograms/ml), nearly 10% of the GnRH-glycys-PPD treated animals showed mammary masses, compared with all the non-treated animals at the same stage in the study. When the antibody levels fell, tumour regrowth was observed, but to a level below that observed in the non-treated animals. Following further treatment with the analogue, the tumours regressed again, showing their retention of hormone dependency. This is consistent with other endocrine manipulations in the treatment of breast cancer; the advantages of immunisation with GnRH-glycys lies in its non-toxicity and reduction in side-effects, which were mainly adjuvant-induced.
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MESH Headings
- 9,10-Dimethyl-1,2-benzanthracene
- Animals
- Atrophy
- Disease Progression
- Estradiol/blood
- Female
- Genitalia, Female/pathology
- Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone/antagonists & inhibitors
- Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone/immunology
- Immunization/methods
- Immunoglobulin G/blood
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/chemically induced
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/immunology
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/pathology
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/therapy
- Neoplasms, Hormone-Dependent/chemically induced
- Neoplasms, Hormone-Dependent/immunology
- Neoplasms, Hormone-Dependent/pathology
- Neoplasms, Hormone-Dependent/therapy
- Palpation
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
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Affiliation(s)
- V A Ferro
- Department of Immunology, University of Strathclyde, Todd Centre, Glasgow, U.K
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Babiuk LA, Potter AA. Veterinary vaccines. Biotechnol Adv 1994; 12:489-523. [PMID: 14548468 PMCID: PMC7173300 DOI: 10.1016/0734-9750(94)90021-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Vaccination of animals for the prevention of infectious diseases has been practised for a number of years with little change in product composition. Recent advances in molecular biology, pathogenesis and immunology have laid the groundwork for the development of a new generation of veterinary vaccines based on pure subunits as well as live vectored bacteria and viruses. Along with novel methods of antigen preparation, the use of new adjuvants and delivery systems will permit targeting of the appropriate immune response as well as offering flexibility in terms of vaccination protocols. These new technologies are also being applied to the development of vaccines to enhance animal productivity and to control reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- L A Babiuk
- Veterinary Infectious Disease Organization, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
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