1
|
Muro BBD, Oliveira ACR, Carnevale RF, Leal DF, Monteiro MS, Poor AP, Pereira FA, de Souza LJ, Ferreira JB, Almond GW, Garbossa CAP. Altrenogest Supplementation during Early Pregnancy Improves Reproductive Outcome in Pigs. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12141801. [PMID: 35883348 PMCID: PMC9312252 DOI: 10.3390/ani12141801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Progesterone plays an important role in initial conceptus development and in a successful pregnancy, but results related to progesterone or its analogues (altrenogest) supplementation in early pregnancy of pigs are conflicting. The present study evaluated the effects of altrenogest supplementation in sows during days 6 and 12 of pregnancy on reproductive performance. On day 6 of pregnancy, 301 females were allocated at random to one of the following treatments: CON (Control: non-supplemented females, n = 163) or ALT (females daily supplemented with 20 mg of altrenogest, orally, from day 6 to 12 of pregnancy, n = 138). Ovulation was considered as occurred at 48 h after the first estrus detection to standardize the first day of pregnancy. The supplementation increased the number of total piglets born (ALT: 17.3 ± 0.4; CON: 16.6 ± 0.4), piglets born alive (ALT: 15.6 ± 0.4; CON: 14.8 ± 0.3), and placenta weight (ALT: 4.2 ± 0.1; CON: 3.8 ± 0.1) and decreased the stillbirth rate (ALT: 5.9 ± 0.6; CON: 7.6 ± 0.6) and the number of piglets born weighing less than 800 g (ALT: 6.6 ± 0.6; CON: 8.0 ± 0.6), without impairment on farrowing rate. These results demonstrated that altrenogest supplementation on swine females between days 6 and 12 of pregnancy may be used to improve reproductive performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Bracco Donatelli Muro
- Department of Nutrition and Animal Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo (USP), Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.C.R.O.); (R.F.C.); (F.A.P.); (C.A.P.G.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Ana Clara Rodrigues Oliveira
- Department of Nutrition and Animal Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo (USP), Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.C.R.O.); (R.F.C.); (F.A.P.); (C.A.P.G.)
| | - Rafaella Fernandes Carnevale
- Department of Nutrition and Animal Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo (USP), Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.C.R.O.); (R.F.C.); (F.A.P.); (C.A.P.G.)
| | - Diego Feitosa Leal
- Department of Population Health & Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University (NCSU), Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (D.F.L.); (J.B.F.); (G.W.A.)
| | - Matheus Saliba Monteiro
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil; (M.S.M.); (A.P.P.)
| | - André Pegoraro Poor
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil; (M.S.M.); (A.P.P.)
| | - Francisco Alves Pereira
- Department of Nutrition and Animal Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo (USP), Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.C.R.O.); (R.F.C.); (F.A.P.); (C.A.P.G.)
| | - Leury Jesus de Souza
- Luiz Queiroz College of Agriculture, University of São Paulo, Piracicaba 13418-900, Brazil;
| | - Juliana Bonin Ferreira
- Department of Population Health & Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University (NCSU), Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (D.F.L.); (J.B.F.); (G.W.A.)
| | - Glen William Almond
- Department of Population Health & Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University (NCSU), Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (D.F.L.); (J.B.F.); (G.W.A.)
| | - Cesar Augusto Pospissil Garbossa
- Department of Nutrition and Animal Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo (USP), Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.C.R.O.); (R.F.C.); (F.A.P.); (C.A.P.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Madoz LV, Rabaglino MB, Migliorisi AL, Jaureguiberry M, Perez Wallace S, Lorenti N, Domínguez G, Giuliodori MJ, de la Sota RL. Association between progesterone concentration and endometrial gene expression in dairy cows. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2021; 74:106481. [PMID: 32622107 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2020.106481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between progesterone concentration on Days 4 and 9 of the estrus cycle and endometrial transcriptome at Day 9 in lactating grazing dairy cows. Blood samples were obtained on Days 0, 4, and 9 for progesterone measurement by chemiluminescence. Cows were assigned to one of the following groups (n = 3 per group): cows with low physiological progesterone on Day 4, cows in anestrous, cows with high physiological progesterone on Day 4, and superovulated cows. Endometrial biopsy samples were obtained on Day 9 for RNA sequencing. Quality control and determination of differentially expressed genes (false discovery rate <0.05) were determined using the edgeR package for R software. We identified 3,042 differentially expressed genes among the 4 groups. Cows having high physiological progesterone and superovulated cows showed high similarities and clustered apart from those in anestrus or having low physiological progesterone. Functional analysis using Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery revealed that endometrial genes upregulated by low progesterone concentration are enriched genes involved in the immune system and inflammatory response. Conversely, cows with high physiological progesterone concentration presented an endometrial transcriptome with similarities to cows with good genetic merit for fertility, showing upregulation of genes related to uterine relaxation-contraction, focal adhesion, GnRH signaling pathway, and epidermal growth factor-like related terms, suggesting a favorable embryo environment. In conclusion, our results support the concept that there is a threshold of progesterone concentration at the beginning of the luteal phase associated with endometrial expression of critical genes involved in the preparation of the uterine environment for embryo implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L V Madoz
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Reproducción Animal (INIRA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Argentina; National Research Council, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M B Rabaglino
- National Research Council, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - A L Migliorisi
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Reproducción Animal (INIRA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
| | - M Jaureguiberry
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Reproducción Animal (INIRA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Argentina; National Research Council, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - N Lorenti
- Práctica Privada, Brandsen, BA, Argentina
| | - G Domínguez
- Práctica Privada, Venado Tuerto, SF, Argentina
| | - M J Giuliodori
- Cátedra de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
| | - R L de la Sota
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Reproducción Animal (INIRA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Argentina; National Research Council, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Immune status during postpartum, peri-implantation and early pregnancy in cattle: An updated view. Anim Reprod Sci 2019; 206:1-10. [PMID: 31133358 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2019.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Throughout the estrous cycle the mammalian endometrium undergoes morphological and functional changes that are essential for the establishment of pregnancy and proper ovarian and uterine functions. Among these changes, the most important are alterations in both inter- and intracellular signalling molecules, many of which modulate immune processes. In the endometrial tissue there are local innate (nonspecific) and adaptive (specific/acquired) response mechanisms which vary because of the endocrine status during the estrous cycle, pregnancy and postpartum period. Endometrial cells have responses that support the immune system by producing pro-inflammatory factors such as cytokines, sensors, effector molecules and chemokines. This response is important during gestation, pregnancy, and fetal growth, as well as in preventing infection, and immuno-rejection of the semi-allogeneic embryo. In dairy cows, both before and immediately after calving, there are marked changes in the values for hormonal and metabolic variables and the immune status is impaired. Thus, in several studies there has been assessment of the physiological and/or abnormal maternal immune changes and possible effects on dairy cow reproductive performance. The objective with this review is to summarize the novel information about the immune mechanisms involved during the postpartum period, subsequent peri-implantation period and pregnancy in dairy cows, and the possible effects on reproductive performance. This information provides for an enhanced understanding of the local and systemic immune responses associated with the metabolic and hormonal status of dairy cows, and alterations in the immune system of high producing cows and the possible effects on subsequent fertility.
Collapse
|
4
|
Osman AHK, Abbott LC, Ahmed AAM. Survey of nuclear progesterone receptor expression in the uterus of the cyclic and pregnant camel (Camelus dromedarius). Anat Histol Embryol 2018; 47:544-550. [PMID: 30058209 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2015] [Revised: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone receptors (PR) are necessary to mediate the biological effects of progesterone and are integral to the regulation of a number of different aspects of reproduction in mammals including ovulation of the oocyte, implantation of the conceptus and maintenance of pregnancy. This study investigated the expression and localization of progesterone receptors in the uterine wall of both pregnant and cyclic (nonpregnant) camels. Uterine tissue samples were collected from healthy animals and processed for routine histological and immunohistochemical staining techniques to reveal nuclear PR. Demonstration of PR was performed by indirect immunohistochemical techniques using monoclonal antibodies raised against human PR. Immunolocalization of PR was more intense in all four endometrial zones (I-IV) as well as the myometrium of non pregnant (cyclic) animals (animals with newly formed corpus luteum). In contrast, PR immunostaining in both the endometrium and the myometrium was greatly reduced in pregnancy, particularly in the latest stage examined (approximately 366 days of gestation). In conclusion, a better understanding of the expression of steroid hormones and their receptors, including progesterone and the PR is critical to improving the reproductive health and pregnancy in the domesticated dromedary camel.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdel-Hamid K Osman
- Department of Cytology & Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Louise C Abbott
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Amal A M Ahmed
- Department of Cytology & Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
de la Mata JJ, Núñez-Olivera R, Cuadro F, Bosolasco D, de Brun V, Meikle A, Bó GA, Menchaca A. Effects of extending the length of pro-oestrus in an oestradiol- and progesterone-based oestrus synchronisation program on ovarian function, uterine environment and pregnancy establishment in beef heifers. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 30:1541-1552. [DOI: 10.1071/rd17473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of a strategy for extending pro-oestrus (the interval between luteolysis and ovulation) in an oestrus synchronisation protocol (named J-Synch) in beef heifers on follicular growth, sexual steroid concentrations, the oestrogen receptor ERα and progesterone receptors (PR) in the uterus, insulin-like growth factor (IGF) 1 and pregnancy rates. In Experiment 1, heifers treated with the new J-Synch protocol had a longer pro-oestrus period than those treated with the conventional protocol (mean (± s.e.m.) 93.7 ± 12.9 vs 65.0 ± 13.7 h respectively; P < 0.05). The rate of dominant follicle growth from the time of progesterone device removal to ovulation was greater in heifers in the J-Synch than conventional group (P < 0.05). Luteal area and serum progesterone concentrations were greater in the J-Synch Group (P < 0.05) for the 12 days after ovulation. Progesterone receptor (PGR) staining on Day 6 after ovulation in the uterine stroma was lower in the J-Synch than conventional group (P < 0.05), and the expression of PR gene (PGR) and IGF1 gene tended to be lower in J-Synch-treated heifers (P < 0.1). In Experiment 2 (n = 2349), the pregnancy rate 30–35 days after fixed-time AI (FTAI) was greater for heifers in the J-Synch than conventional group (56.1% vs 50.7% respectively). In conclusion, our strategy for extending pro-oestrus (i.e. the J-Synch protocol) significantly improves pregnancy establishment in beef heifers. This improvement was related to an increased rate of growth of the dominant ovulatory follicle, greater progesterone concentrations during the ensuing luteal phase and different uterine patterns of PGR and IGF1, which may have favoured embryo development and pregnancy establishment.
Collapse
|
6
|
Han HI, Lee SH, Park CK. Development of In Vitro Embryo Production System Using Collagen Matrix Gel Attached with Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Derived from Interleukin-1 Beta-Treated Porcine Endometrial Tissue. Tissue Eng Part C Methods 2017; 23:396-403. [PMID: 28493788 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tec.2017.0071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to establish an embryo culture system using collagen gel attached with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) derived from interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β)-treated endometrial tissues from pigs. Endometria were separated from the porcine uterus at the follicular phase of the estrous cycle and were cultured with IL-1β. The collagen gels coincubated with IL-1β-treated endometria (C, without endometrial tissue; CE, with endometrial tissue; and CEI, IL-1β-treated endometrial tissue) were used for embryo culture. We found that, compared with the comparable figures in the control group, prostaglandin synthase-2 (PTGS-2) mRNA was increased in IL-1β-treated endometrial tissue (p < 0.05). The VEGF protein was not observed in collagen gel coincubated without endometrial tissue (C); however, it was detected in collagen gels coincubated with endometrial tissue (CE and CEI). The embryo cleavage rates and blastocyst formation did not differ among the treatment groups. The proportion of blastocysts did not differ among the groups. However, the number of blastocyst cells was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the CEI group than in the other groups. These results clarify the effects of the intrauterine environment on preimplantation embryos and may be useful in research on the effects of extracellular matrix- and cytokine-treated endometrial tissue on embryo development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hye-In Han
- 1 College of Animal Life Science, Kangwon National University , Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Hee Lee
- 2 Institute of Animal Resources, Kangwon National University , Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Choon-Keun Park
- 3 Animal Biotechnology Program, Division of Applied Animal Science, College of Animal Life Science, Kangwon National University , Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Diskin MG, Waters SM, Parr MH, Kenny DA. Pregnancy losses in cattle: potential for improvement. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 28:83-93. [PMID: 27062877 DOI: 10.1071/rd15366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
For heifers, beef and moderate-yielding dairy cows, it appears that the fertilisation rate generally lies between 90% and 100%. For high-producing dairy cows, there is a less substantive body of literature, but it would appear that the fertilisation rate is somewhat lower and possibly more variable. In cattle, the major component of embryo loss occurs in the first 16 days following breeding (Day 0), with emerging evidence of greater losses before Day 8 in high-producing dairy cows. In cattle, late embryo mortality causes serious economic losses because it is often recognised too late to rebreed females. Systemic concentrations of progesterone during both the cycle preceding and following insemination affect embryo survival, with evidence of either excessive or insufficient concentrations being negatively associated with survival rate. The application of direct progesterone supplementation or treatments to increase endogenous output of progesterone to increase embryo survival cannot be recommended at this time. Energy balance and dry matter intake during the first 4 weeks after calving are critically important in determining pregnancies per AI when cows are inseminated at 70-100 days after calving. Level of concentrate supplementation of cows at pasture during the breeding period has minimal effects on conception rates, although sudden reductions in dietary intake should be avoided. For all systems of milk production, more balanced breeding strategies with greater emphasis on fertility and feed intake and/or energy must be developed. There is genetic variability within the Holstein breed for fertility traits, which can be exploited. Genomic technology will not only provide scientists with an improved understanding of the underlying biological processes involved in fertilisation and the establishment of pregnancy, but also, in the future, could identify genes responsible for improved embryo survival. Such information could be incorporated into breeding objectives in order to increase the rate of genetic progress for embryo survival. In addition, there is a range of easily adoptable management factors, under producer control, that can either directly increase embryo survival or ameliorate the consequences of low embryo survival rates. The correction of minor deficits in several areas can have a substantial cumulative positive effect on herd reproductive performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M G Diskin
- Teagasc, Animal and Grassland and Innovation Research Centre, Mellows Campus, Athenry, Co. Galway, H65 R718, Ireland
| | - S M Waters
- Teagasc, Animal and Grassland and Innovation Research Centre, Grange, Dunsany, Co. Meath, C15 PW93, Ireland
| | - M H Parr
- Teagasc, Animal and Grassland and Innovation Research Centre, Grange, Dunsany, Co. Meath, C15 PW93, Ireland
| | - D A Kenny
- Teagasc, Animal and Grassland and Innovation Research Centre, Grange, Dunsany, Co. Meath, C15 PW93, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Costello LM, O'Boyle P, Diskin MG, Hynes AC, Morris DG. Insulin-like growth factor and insulin-like growth factor-binding proteins in the bovine uterus throughout the oestrous cycle. Reprod Fertil Dev 2014; 26:599-608. [PMID: 23607981 DOI: 10.1071/rd13105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2012] [Accepted: 03/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The aims of the present study were to assess several components of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system in bovine uterine flushings across different days of the oestrous cycle and to examine the relationship between the IGF system and systemic progesterone concentrations. Uterine flushings and plasma were collected from cows on Days 3, 7, 11 and 15 of the oestrous cycle. The IGF-1 concentration was more than 5-fold higher in the uterus compared with plasma on Days 7 and 11 of the cycle, with values similar on Days 3 and 15. Similarly, uterine concentrations of IGF-binding protein (IGFBP)-2 and IGFBP-3 were up to 10- and 4-fold higher than in plasma, respectively, suggesting synthesis and/or transportation of the IGFBPs into the uterus. In addition, concentrations of IGFBP-2 and IGFBP-3 were higher in the uterine horns, ipsilateral to the corpus luteum, on Day 15. This difference could indicate a local controlling mechanism with progesterone possibly playing a role in regulating the concentration of IGFBPs between the uterine horns. There was no significant relationship between systemic progesterone concentrations and IGFBP concentrations on Day 7 of the oestrous cycle. The present study shows that uterine concentrations of IGFBPs are cycle stage specific and also suggests IGF-dependent and -independent functions for IGFBPs during a time of major change in the developing embryo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Costello
- Animal and Bioscience Research Department, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Mellows Campus, Athenry, Co. Galway, Ireland
| | - Padraic O'Boyle
- Animal and Bioscience Research Department, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Mellows Campus, Athenry, Co. Galway, Ireland
| | - Michael G Diskin
- Animal and Bioscience Research Department, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Mellows Campus, Athenry, Co. Galway, Ireland
| | - Ailish C Hynes
- Department of Physiology, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Co. Galway, Ireland
| | - Dermot G Morris
- Animal and Bioscience Research Department, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Mellows Campus, Athenry, Co. Galway, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bloise E, Feuer SK, Rinaudo PF. Comparative intrauterine development and placental function of ART concepti: implications for human reproductive medicine and animal breeding. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 20:822-39. [PMID: 24947475 PMCID: PMC4196686 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmu032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2014] [Revised: 05/21/2014] [Accepted: 05/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The number of children conceived using assisted reproductive technologies (ART) has reached >5 million worldwide and continues to increase. Although the great majority of ART children are healthy, many reports suggest a forthcoming risk of metabolic complications, which is further supported by the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease hypothesis of suboptimal embryo/fetal conditions predisposing adult cardiometabolic pathologies. Accumulating evidence suggests that fetal and placental growth kinetics are important features predicting post-natal health, but the relationship between ART and intrauterine growth has not been systematically reviewed. METHODS Relevant studies describing fetoplacental intrauterine phenotypes of concepti generated by in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) in the mouse, bovine and human were comprehensively researched using PubMed and Google Scholar. Intrauterine growth plots were created from tabular formatted data available in selected reports. RESULTS ART pregnancies display minor but noticeable alterations in fetal and placental growth curves across mammalian species. In all species, there is evidence of fetal growth restriction in the earlier stages of pregnancy, followed by significant increases in placental size and accelerated fetal growth toward the end of gestation. However, there is a species-specific effect of ART on birthweights, that additionally vary in a culture condition-, strain-, and/or stage at transfer-specific manner. We discuss the potential mechanisms that underlie these changes, and how they are affected by specific components of ART procedures. CONCLUSIONS ART may promote measurable alterations to intrauterine growth trajectory and placental function. Key findings include evidence that birthweight is not a reliable marker of fetal stress, and that increases in embryo manipulation result in more deviant fetal growth curves. Because growth kinetics in early life are particularly relevant to adult metabolic physiology, we advise more rigorous assessment of fetal growth and placental function in human ART pregnancies, as well as continued follow-up of ART offspring throughout post-natal life. Finally, strategies to minimize embryo manipulations should be adopted whenever possible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Enrrico Bloise
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology, Carlos Chagas Filho Biophysics Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Sky K Feuer
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Paolo F Rinaudo
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Effect of Three Dimensional Culture of Porcine Endometrial Cells on Their Plasminogen Activity and Pre-implantation Embryo Development after Co-culture. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL REPRODUCTION AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 2014. [DOI: 10.12750/jet.2014.29.2.207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
|
11
|
Mullen MP, Bazer FW, Wu G, Parr MH, Evans ACO, Crowe MA, Diskin MG. Effects of systemic progesterone during the early luteal phase on the availabilities of amino acids and glucose in the bovine uterine lumen. Reprod Fertil Dev 2014; 26:282-92. [PMID: 23374643 DOI: 10.1071/rd12319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2012] [Accepted: 12/18/2012] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The uterine histotroph provides essential nutrition to the developing conceptus during the preimplantation period of pregnancy. The objective of the present study was to examine the effects of cycle stage and progesterone (P4) concentrations in the blood on the recoverable quantities of amino acids and glucose in the histotroph during the preimplantaion period of conceptus development. Following oestrus, dairy heifers were assigned to low, control or high P4 groups (n=6 heifers per treatment and time point). The uterine horn ipsilateral to the corpus luteum was flushed on either Day 7 or Day 13. The present study quantified 24 amino acids and glucose in the uterine flushings using HPLC and fluorometry, respectively. Heifers in the low P4 group had lower plasma concentrations of P4 throughout the cycle, whereas heifers in the high group had higher plasma concentrations of P4 between Days 3 and 7 compared with the control group (P<0.05). Total recoverable neutral (Ser, Gln, Gly, Thr, Cit, β-Ala, Tau, Ala, Tyr, Trp, Met, Val, Phe, Ile, Leu, Pro and Cys), acidic (Glu) and basic (His, Arg, Orn and Lys) amino acids were greater (P<0.05) on Day 13 than on Day 7. There was no significant difference in the amount of Asp or Asn between Day 7 and Day 13. The amount of amino acids recovered on Day 7 was similar across treatment groups. On Day 13, the amount of Asn, His and Thr was lower (P<0.05) in the low P4 heifers compared with the controls and/or high P4 heifers. Quantities of glucose were not altered by cycle stage or P4 treatment. In conclusion, the stage of oestrous cycle and P4 play important roles in modulating amino acids in the histotroph, a potentially critical factor for early embryonic and/or conceptus survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Mullen
- Animal and Bioscience Research Department, Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Mellows Campus, Athenry, Co. Galway, Ireland
| | - Fuller W Bazer
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-2471, USA
| | - Guoyao Wu
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-2471, USA
| | - Mervyn H Parr
- Animal and Bioscience Research Department, Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Mellows Campus, Athenry, Co. Galway, Ireland
| | - Alexander C O Evans
- UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Mark A Crowe
- UCD School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Michael G Diskin
- Animal and Bioscience Research Department, Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Mellows Campus, Athenry, Co. Galway, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Faulkner S, Elia G, O' Boyle P, Dunn M, Morris D. Composition of the bovine uterine proteome is associated with stage of cycle and concentration of systemic progesterone. Proteomics 2014; 13:3333-53. [PMID: 24115321 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.201300204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2013] [Revised: 07/24/2013] [Accepted: 09/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Early embryonic loss accounts for over 70% of total embryonic and foetal loss in dairy cattle. Early embryonic development and survival is associated with the concentration of systemic progesterone. To determine if the uterine proteome is influenced by stage of cycle or systemic progesterone concentrations, uterine flushings were collected from the ipsi- and contralateral uterine horns of beef heifers on Days 7 (n = 10) and 15 (n = 10) of the oestrous cycle. Animals were separated into low or high progesterone groups based on plasma progesterone concentrations on Day 5 of the cycle. Samples were albumin depleted before iTRAQ R labeling and subsequent strong cation exchange-LC-MS/MS analyses. A total of 20 proteins were up to 5.9-fold higher (p<0.05) and 20 were up to 2.3-fold lower on Day 15 compared toDay 7. In addition, the expression of a number of proteins on Day 7 and/or 15 of the cycle was correlated with progesterone concentrations during Days 3–7 or the rate of change in progesterone between Days 3 and 7. This study highlights the dynamic changes occurring in the microenvironment surrounding the embryo during this period. The findings here also support the hypothesis that progesterone supports embryonic development by altering the maternal uterine environment.
Collapse
|
13
|
Physiological and practical effects of progesterone on reproduction in dairy cattle. Animal 2014; 8 Suppl 1:70-81. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731114000585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
|
14
|
Mullen MP, Forde N, Parr MH, Diskin MG, Morris DG, Nally JE, Evans ACO, Crowe MA. Alterations in systemic concentrations of progesterone during the early luteal phase affect RBP4 expression in the bovine uterus. Reprod Fertil Dev 2012; 24:715-22. [PMID: 22697121 DOI: 10.1071/rd11246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2011] [Accepted: 11/03/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic progesterone affects the timing and duration of uterine endometrial gene and protein expression and has significant effects on conceptus development. The objective of the present study was to examine how changes in progesterone concentrations during the early luteal phase affect retinol-binding protein (RBP4) mRNA and protein concentrations in the uterus. Endometrial tissue and uterine flushings were recovered on Days 7 and 13 of the oestrous cycle in heifers with high, normal and low progesterone concentrations. RBP4 mRNA and protein concentrations were higher (P<0.05) on Day 13 compared with Day 7 in heifers with high and control progesterone concentrations. However, there was no difference in RBP4 protein concentrations between Days 7 and 13 in heifers with low progesterone (P>0.05). On Day 7, although heifers with low progesterone had lower RBP4 mRNA expression compared with controls (P<0.05) there was no difference in protein concentrations between treatment groups. On Day 13, RBP4 mRNA was 2-fold higher (P<0.001) in heifers with high and control progesterone compared with their low-progesterone counterparts and RBP4 protein concentrations were over 2-fold higher (P<0.001) in heifers with high compared to low progesterone. In conclusion, progesterone modulates uterine RBP4 mRNA and protein abundance in a time- and concentration-dependent manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Mullen
- Animal and Bioscience Research Department, Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Mellows Campus, Athenry, Co. Galway, Ireland.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Forde N, Mehta JP, Minten M, Crowe MA, Roche JF, Spencer TE, Lonergan P. Effects of Low Progesterone on the Endometrial Transcriptome in Cattle1. Biol Reprod 2012; 87:124. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.103424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
|
16
|
Tang KQ, Yang WC, Pai B, Li SJ, Chen L, Yang LG. Effects of PGR and ESRα genotypes on the pregnancy rates after embryo transfer in Luxi cattle. Mol Biol Rep 2012; 40:579-84. [DOI: 10.1007/s11033-012-2095-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2012] [Accepted: 10/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
|
17
|
Abstract
Increased genetic selection over the past 40 years has resulted in a dairy cow with an improved biological efficiency for producing milk but with an associated reduced fertility. Embryo loss is the greatest factor contributing to the failure of a cow to conceive. The extent and timing of embryo loss indicates that 70% to 80% of this loss occurs in the first 2 weeks after artificial insemination (AI). This is the period when a number of critical phases in embryo development occur and where protein accretion, substrate utilization and embryo metabolism increase dramatically. During this time the early embryo is completely dependent on the oviduct and uterine environment for its survival and it is likely that the embryo requires an optimal uterine environment to ensure normal growth and viability. There is increasing evidence of an association between the concentration of systemic progesterone and early embryo loss and that progesterone supplementation of cows, particularly those with low progesterone, can reduce this loss. While progesterone is known to affect uterine function and embryo growth, little is known about the uterus during the period of early embryo loss and how this is affected by changes in the concentration of systemic progesterone. The expression of uterine genes encoding the transport protein retinol binding protein (RBP) and the gene for folate binding protein (FBP) appear to be sensitive to changes in systemic progesterone, particularly during the early luteal phase of the cycle. Uterine concentrations of proteins also seem to be regulated by stage of cycle; however, their relationship with the systemic concentration of progesterone is unclear. There is an urgent need to characterize the uterine environment from a functional perspective during the early part of the luteal phase of the cycle, particularly in the high-producing cow, in order to understand the factors contributing to early embryo loss and in order to devise strategies to minimize or reduce this loss.
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
For heifers, beef and moderate-yielding dairy cows, fertilisation generally exceeds 90%. In high-producing dairy cows, it may be lower and possibly more variable. The major component of embryo loss occurs before Day 16 following breeding, with emerging evidence of greater losses before Day 8 in high-producing dairy cows. Late embryo loss causes serious economic losses because it is often recognised too late to rebreed females. Systemic concentrations of progesterone during the cycles both preceding and following insemination affect embryo survival; too-high or too-low a concentration has been shown to be negatively associated with survival rate. Energy balance and dry matter intake during the 4 weeks after calving are critically important in determining conception rate when cows are inseminated 70 to 100 days after calving. More balanced breeding strategies with greater emphasis on fertility, feed intake and energy must be developed. Genetic variability for fertility traits can be exploited; genomic technology will not only provide scientists with an improved understanding of the underlying biological processes involved in fertilisation and the establishment of pregnancy, but could identify genes responsible for improved embryo survival. Their incorporation into breeding objectives would increase the rate of genetic progress for embryo survival. There is a range of easily adoptable management factors, under producer control, that can either directly increase embryo survival or ameliorate the consequences of low embryo survival rates. The correction of minor deficits in several areas can have a substantial overall effect on herd reproductive performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M G Diskin
- Teagasc, Animal & Grassland and Innovation Research Centre, Mellows Campus, Athenry, Co. Galway, Ireland.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ledgard AM, Berg MC, McMillan WH, Smolenski G, Peterson AJ. Effect of asynchronous transfer on bovine embryonic development and relationship with early cycle uterine proteome profiles. Reprod Fertil Dev 2012; 24:962-72. [DOI: 10.1071/rd11225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2011] [Accepted: 02/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The uterus provides the nurturing environment that supports the growth of the early preimplantation bovine conceptus. To determine critical time points of uterine influence, in vitro-produced Day 7 blastocysts were transferred into synchronous (Day 7) uteri and asynchronous uteri (Days 5 or 9). Embryo growth was evaluated 7 and 15 days after transfer and compared with that of embryos generated by AI. Conceptuses recovered from asynchronous Day 9 transfers were fourfold larger than synchronous transfer or gestational Day 14 AI conceptuses; by 15 days after transfer, differences were less marked. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis was used to compare the histotroph protein composition of uterine luminal flushings (ULF) on Days 5 and 9 after oestrous to determine any protein differences that would promote embryo growth. The ULF were collected by serially flushing the uteri of the same heifers and mature cows at different times of the cycle. Ten proteins that differed in abundance between Day 5 and 9 were identified by mass spectrometry. Three, namely phosphoserine aminotransferase 1, purine nucleoside phosphorylase and aldose reductase, were verified by western blot analysis as more abundant on Day 9 (P < 0.002). Myostatin was present in only in Day 9 ULF, whereas tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (TIMP2) and legumain were only detected in Day 14 ULF. Although mature cows had lower progesterone concentrations on Days 5 and 14 (P < 0.05) and tended to have less TIMP2 than heifer groups, no other protein differences were detected. Thus, the embryo growth-enhancing environment on Day 9 was associated with temporal changes in the expression of several proteins of the histotroph.
Collapse
|
20
|
Wiltbank MC, Souza AH, Carvalho PD, Bender RW, Nascimento AB. Improving fertility to timed artificial insemination by manipulation of circulating progesterone concentrations in lactating dairy cattle. Reprod Fertil Dev 2012; 24:238-43. [DOI: 10.1071/rd11913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This manuscript reviews the effect of progesterone (P4) during timed AI protocols in lactating dairy cows. Circulating P4 is determined by a balance between P4 production, primarily by the corpus luteum (CL), and P4 metabolism, primarily by the liver. In dairy cattle, the volume of luteal tissue is a primary determinant of P4 production; however, inadequate circulating P4 is generally due to high P4 metabolism resulting from extremely elevated liver blood flow. Three sections in this manuscript summarise the role of P4 concentrations before breeding, near the time of breeding and after breeding. During timed AI protocols, elevations in P4 are generally achieved by ovulation, resulting in an accessory CL, or by supplementation with exogenous P4. Elevating P4 before timed AI has been found to decrease double ovulation and increase fertility to the timed AI. Slight elevations in circulating P4 can dramatically reduce fertility, with inadequate luteolysis to the prostaglandin F2α treatment before timed AI being the underlying cause of this problem. After AI, circulating P4 is critical for embryo growth, and for establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. Many studies have attempted to improve fertility by elevating P4 after timed AI with marginal elevations in fertility. Thus, previous research has provided substantial insights into mechanisms regulating circulating P4 concentrations and actions. Understanding this prior research can focus future research on P4 manipulation to improve timed AI protocols.
Collapse
|
21
|
Lüttgenau J, Beindorff N, Ulbrich S, Kastelic J, Bollwein H. Low plasma progesterone concentrations are accompanied by reduced luteal blood flow and increased size of the dominant follicle in dairy cows. Theriogenology 2011; 76:12-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2010] [Revised: 11/29/2010] [Accepted: 12/26/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
22
|
Gad A, Besenfelder U, Rings F, Ghanem N, Salilew-Wondim D, Hossain M, Tesfaye D, Lonergan P, Becker A, Cinar U, Schellander K, Havlicek V, Hölker M. Effect of reproductive tract environment following controlled ovarian hyperstimulation treatment on embryo development and global transcriptome profile of blastocysts: implications for animal breeding and human assisted reproduction. Hum Reprod 2011; 26:1693-707. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
|
23
|
Larson JE, Krisher RL, Lamb GC. Effects of supplemental progesterone on the development, metabolism and blastocyst cell number of bovine embryos produced in vitro. Reprod Fertil Dev 2011; 23:311-8. [PMID: 21211464 DOI: 10.1071/rd10106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2010] [Accepted: 07/12/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The objectives of the present experiment were to determine whether supplementation with progesterone (LO, 1 ng mL(-1) or HI, 100 ng mL(-1)) during either the first (Culture-1, Day 1 to 3) or second (Culture-2, Day 4 to 7) phase of culture of in vitro-produced embryos alters embryo development, embryo metabolism or blastocyst cell number. The percentage of oocytes that cleaved, the percentage of cleaved embryos that developed to the morula stage or greater, the blastocyst stage or greater or the hatched blastocyst stage were similar among treatments. Quantities of glucose metabolised per blastocyst per hour were similar, but when metabolic data was normalised for numbers of cells in each blastocyst, the LO treatment during Culture-2 metabolised more glucose (P=0.03) compared with all other treatments. Embryos receiving LO progesterone tended to have greater (P=0.085) metabolism of glucose compared with embryos receiving HI progesterone. Quantities of pyruvate oxidised per blastocyst per hour, and per cell, were similar among treatments. The number of cells per blastocyst in the control group was increased (P=0.039) compared with cells in progesterone-treated groups. In conclusion, supplementation with progesterone during the culture of in vitro-produced embryos does not appear to improve embryo characteristics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jamie E Larson
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, 4025 Wise Center, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Yang WC, Tang KQ, Li SJ, Yang LG. Association analysis between variants in bovine progesterone receptor gene and superovulation traits in Chinese Holstein cows. Reprod Domest Anim 2011; 46:1029-34. [PMID: 21426415 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2011.01780.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to identify a predictor to forecast superovulation response on the basis of associations between superovulation performance and gene polymorphism. The PCR-RFLP method was applied to detect two reported single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of G59752C and T81637C (rs41614030) located in introns 3 and 4 of the bovine progesterone receptor (PGR) gene in 171 Chinese Holstein cows treated for superovulation and evaluate its associations with superovulation traits. In polymorphic locus 81637, all cows without superovulation response were g.81637TC and g.81637TT genotypes. Association analysis showed that these two SNPs had significant effects on the total number of ova (TNO) (p<0.05), and the T81637C polymorphism was significantly associated with the number of transferable embryos (p<0.05). In addition, significant additive effects (p<0.05) on TNO were detected in the polymorphisms of G59752C and T81637C. These results showed for the first time that the G59752C and T81637C polymorphisms in PGR gene were associated with superovulation traits and indicated that PGR gene can be used as a predictor for superovulation in Chinese Holstein cows.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W C Yang
- Key lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Costello LM, O'Boyle P, Godkin JD, Diskin MG, Hynes AC, Morris DG. Retinol-binding protein (RBP), retinol and β-carotene in the bovine uterus and plasma during the oestrous cycle and the relationship between systemic progesterone and RBP on day 7. Reprod Fertil Dev 2010; 22:1198-205. [PMID: 20883645 DOI: 10.1071/rd10034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2010] [Accepted: 05/17/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In the dairy cow, low systemic concentrations of progesterone are known to be a major factor associated with early embryo loss. Endometrial expression of the gene encoding retinol-binding protein (RBP) is sensitive to small changes in progesterone on day 7 of the oestrous cycle. The objectives of the present study were to measure RBP concentrations in bovine uterine flushings and plasma across different days of the oestrous cycle and to examine the relationship between uterine RBP and systemic concentrations of progesterone. Uterine flushings and plasma were collected from cows on days 3, 7, 11 and 15 of the oestrous cycle. Uterine RBP concentrations were five- to 15-fold higher (P < 0.001) on day 15 compared with the other days and twofold higher (P < 0.001) in the uterine horn ipsilateral to the corpus luteum on day 15. RBP concentrations were similar in flushings and plasma across days 3-11; however, day 15 RBP concentrations were six- to 15-fold higher (P < 0.001) in uterine flushings. No significant relationship was found between the concentration of systemic progesterone and RBP concentrations on day 7. Overall, the results of the present study indicate a local controlling mechanism operating at the level of the endometrium to regulate RBP secretion, most likely progesterone.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Costello
- Animal and Bioscience Research Department, Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Athenry, Galway, Ireland
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Carter F, Rings F, Mamo S, Holker M, Kuzmany A, Besenfelder U, Havlicek V, Mehta JP, Tesfaye D, Schellander K, Lonergan P. Effect of elevated circulating progesterone concentration on bovine blastocyst development and global transcriptome following endoscopic transfer of in vitro produced embryos to the bovine oviduct. Biol Reprod 2010; 83:707-19. [PMID: 20631399 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.109.082354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Elevated concentrations of circulating progesterone in the immediate postconception period have been associated with an increase in embryonic growth rate, interferon-tau production, and pregnancy rate in cattle and sheep. Much of this effect is likely mediated via downstream effects of progesterone-induced changes in gene expression in the uterine tissues. Using state-of-the-art endoscopic techniques, this study examined the effect of elevated progesterone on the development of in vitro produced bovine zygotes transferred to the oviducts of heifers with high or normal circulating progesterone concentrations and on the transcriptome of blastocysts developing under such conditions. Simmental heifers (n = 34) were synchronized using a controlled internal drug release (CIDR) device for 8 days, with a prostaglandin F(2 alpha) analogue administered 3 days before removal of the CIDR device. Only animals exhibiting a clear standing estrus (Day 0) were used. To produce animals with divergent progesterone concentrations, half of the animals received a progesterone-releasing intravaginal device (PRID) on Day 3 of the estrous cycle; the PRID was left in place until embryo recovery. All animals were sampled for blood daily from Day 0 to Day 7. Cleaved embryos were transferred by endoscopy to the ipsilateral oviduct of each recipient on Day 2 and then recovered by nonsurgically flushing the oviduct and the uterus on Day 7. The number of embryos developing to the blastocyst stage was recorded at recovery and following overnight culture in vitro. Potential effects of elevated progesterone on transcript abundance were examined using the Affymetrix GeneChip Bovine Genome Array. Insertion of a PRID on Day 3 resulted in a significant elevation of progesterone concentration (P < 0.05) from Day 3.5 until Day 6. Elevated progesterone did not affect the proportion of embryos developing to the blastocyst stage. Genomewide gene expression analysis identified 194 differentially expressed genes between embryos collected from heifers with normal or elevated progesterone, and quantitative real-time PCR validation with a subset of selected genes and an independent sample confirmed the microarray results. Interaction network analysis indicated a significant interaction between progesterone-regulated genes in the blastocyst and in the maternal endometrium. These results suggest that elevated concentrations of progesterone do not affect the ability of the early embryo to reach the blastocyst stage in vivo but do result in subtle changes to the transcriptome of the embryo that may be associated with advanced elongation posthatching.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Carter
- School of Agriculture, Food Science, and Veterinary Medicine, College of Life Sciences, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Okumu LA, Forde N, Fahey AG, Fitzpatrick E, Roche JF, Crowe MA, Lonergan P. The effect of elevated progesterone and pregnancy status on mRNA expression and localisation of progesterone and oestrogen receptors in the bovine uterus. Reproduction 2010; 140:143-53. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-10-0113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the effects of pregnancy or post-ovulatory progesterone (P4) supplementation on the expression of oestrogen and P4 receptors (ESRs and PGRs) in the bovine uterus, heifers (n=263) were randomly assigned to the following treatments: i) cyclic, normal P4; ii) cyclic, high P4; iii) pregnant, normal P4; and iv) pregnant, high P4 on days 5, 7, 13 and 16 of pregnancy/oestrous cycle. Elevated P4 was achieved through P4-releasing intravaginal device insertion on day 3 after oestrus, resulting in increased concentrations from day 3.5 to 8 (P<0.05) in the high groups than in the normal groups. Irrespective of treatment, PGR and ESR1 mRNA expressions were highest on days 5 and 7 and decreased on day 13 (P<0.05), while ESR2 mRNA expression increased on day 7 (P<0.05) and similar levels were maintained within the normal P4 groups subsequently. Expression in the high P4 groups decreased on day 13 (P<0.05). PGR-AB and PGR-B protein expressions were high in the luminal and superficial glands on days 5 and 7, but by day 13, expression had declined to very low or undetectable levels and high P4 concentration tended to decrease or decreased significantly (P<0.05) the expression in these regions on days 5 and 7. ESR1 protein expression was high, with no treatment effect. ESR2 protein was also highly expressed, with no clear effect of treatment. In conclusion, early post-ovulatory P4 supplementation advances the disappearance of PGR protein from the luminal epithelium on days 5 and 7, and decreases ESR2 mRNA expression during the mid-luteal phase, but has no effect on PGR or ESR1 mRNA expression.
Collapse
|
28
|
Hugentobler SA, Sreenan JM, Humpherson PG, Leese HJ, Diskin MG, Morris DG. Effects of changes in the concentration of systemic progesterone on ions, amino acids and energy substrates in cattle oviduct and uterine fluid and blood. Reprod Fertil Dev 2010; 22:684-94. [PMID: 20353728 DOI: 10.1071/rd09129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2009] [Accepted: 09/30/2009] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Early embryo loss is a major factor affecting the conception rate in cattle. Up to 40% of cattle embryos die within 3 weeks of fertilisation while they are nutritionally dependent on oviduct and uterine fluids for their survival. Inadequate systemic progesterone is one of the factors contributing to this loss. We have characterised the effects of changes in systemic progesterone on amino acid, ion and energy substrate composition of oviduct and uterine fluids on Days 3 and 6, respectively, of the oestrus cycle in cattle. Oviduct and uterine fluids were collected in situ following infusion of progesterone. There was no effect of progesterone on oviduct fluid secretion rate; however, uterine fluid secretion rate was lowered. Progesterone increased uterine glucose, decreased oviduct sulfate and, to a lesser degree, oviduct sodium, but had no effect on any of the ions in the uterus. The most marked effect of progesterone was on oviducal amino acid concentrations, with a twofold increase in glycine, whereas in the uterus only valine was increased. These results provide novel information on the maternal environment of the early cattle embryo and provide further evidence of progesterone regulation of oviduct amino acid concentrations in cattle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S A Hugentobler
- Animal Bioscience Department, Teagasc, Mellows Campus, Athenry, Galway, Ireland
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Driver AM, Huang W, Gajic S, Monson RL, Rosa GJM, Khatib H. Short communication: Effects of the progesterone receptor variants on fertility traits in cattle. J Dairy Sci 2009; 92:4082-5. [PMID: 19620692 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2009-2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The progesterone receptor (PGR) gene is a key factor in the initiation and maintenance of pregnancy and in embryo development. Currently, it is unknown what variants of the PGR gene are related to fertility traits in cattle. Identification of such variants would allow the implementation of marker-assisted selection in breeding schemes. The objective of this study was to investigate the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) of PGR with fertility traits in Holstein dairy cattle. An in vitro fertilization system was used to maximize the efficiency of the identification of genetic factors affecting fertility. This in vitro fertilization system would allow the assessment of fertilization and embryonic survival rates independently of influences from the uterine environment. A total of 5,566 fertilization attempts were performed, and a total of 3,679 embryos were produced using oocytes from 324 Holstein cows and semen from 10 Holstein bulls. Sequencing of pooled DNA samples from ovaries revealed an SNP (G/C) in intron 3 of PGR. A generalized linear model was used to analyze the association of this SNP with fertilization and embryonic survival rates for each ovary. Oocytes obtained from CC ovaries showed a 61% fertilization rate, compared with 68 and 69% for GC and GG ovaries, respectively. The survival rate of embryos produced from GG ovaries was 5 and 6% higher than that of GC and CC ovaries . These results indicate that the PGR SNP could be used in marker-assisted selection breeding programs in Holstein dairy cattle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A M Driver
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Diskin MG, Morris DG. Embryonic and early foetal losses in cattle and other ruminants. Reprod Domest Anim 2008; 43 Suppl 2:260-7. [PMID: 18638133 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2008.01171.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 379] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Embryo survival is a major factor affecting production and economic efficiency in all systems of ruminant milk and meat production. For heifers, beef and moderate yielding dairy cows, does and camelids it appears that fertilization generally lies between 90% and 100%. In high-producing dairy cows there is a less substantive body of literature, but it would appear that it is somewhat lower and perhaps more variable. In cattle, the major component of embryo loss occurs before day 16 following breeding with some evidence of greater losses before day 8 in high-producing dairy cows. In cattle late embryo loss, while numerically much smaller than early embryo mortality loss, nevertheless, causes serious economic losses to producers because it is often too late to rebreed females when they repeat. In multiple ovulating small ruminants, the loss rate is positively related to ovulation rate. Systemic concentrations of progesterone, during both the cycle preceding and following insemination, affect embryo survival rate with evidence that too high or indeed too low a concentration being negatively associated with survival rate. Uterine expression of mRNA for progesterone receptor, oestradiol receptor and retinol-binding protein appears to be sensitive to changes in peripheral concentrations of progesterone during the first week after artificial insemination. Energy balance and dry matter intake during 4 weeks after calving are critically important in determining conception rate when cows are inseminated at 70-100 days post-calving. Concentrate supplementation of cows at pasture during the breeding period has minimal effects on conception rates though sudden reductions in dietary intake should be avoided. For all systems of milk production, more balanced breeding strategies with greater emphasis on fertility and feed intake and/or energy balance must be developed. There is sufficient genetic variability within the Holstein breed for fertility traits. Alternative dairy breeds such as the Jersey or Norwegian Red could also be utilized. Genomic technology will not only provide scientists with an improved understanding of the underlying biological processes involved in fertilization and the establishment of pregnancy, but also, in the future, identify genes responsible for improved embryo survival. Its incorporation into breeding objectives would increase the rate of genetic progress for embryo survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M G Diskin
- Teagasc, Animal Production Research Centre, Mellows Campus, Athenry, Co. Galway, Ireland. michael@
| | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Duranthon V, Watson AJ, Lonergan P. Preimplantation embryo programming: transcription, epigenetics, and culture environment. Reproduction 2008; 135:141-50. [PMID: 18239045 DOI: 10.1530/rep-07-0324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Preimplantation development directs the formation of an implantation- or attachment-competent embryo so that metabolic interactions with the uterus can occur, pregnancy can be initiated, and fetal development can be sustained. The preimplantation embryo exhibits a form of autonomous development fueled by products provided by the oocyte and also from activation of the embryo's genome. Despite this autonomy, the preimplantation embryo is highly influenced by factors in the external environment and in extreme situations, such as those presented by embryo culture or nuclear transfer, the ability of the embryo to adapt to the changing environmental conditions or chromatin to become reprogrammed can exceed its own adaptive capacity, resulting in aberrant embryonic development. Nuclear transfer or embryo culture-induced influences not only affect implantation and establishment of pregnancy but also can extend to fetal and postnatal development and affect susceptibility to disease in later life. It is therefore critical to define the basic program controlling preimplantation development, and also to utilize nuclear transfer and embryo culture models so that we may design healthier environments for preimplantation embryos to thrive in and also minimize the potential for negative consequences during pregnancy and post-gestational life. In addition, it is necessary to couple gene expression analysis with the investigation of gene function so that effects on gene expression can be fully understood. The purpose of this short review is to highlight our knowledge of the mechanisms controlling preimplantation development and report how those mechanisms may be influenced by nuclear transfer and embryo culture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Veronique Duranthon
- UMR Biologie du développement et de la Reproduction, INRA, 78352 Jouy en Josas Cedex, France
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Diskin M, Murphy J, Sreenan J. Embryo survival in dairy cows managed under pastoral conditions. Anim Reprod Sci 2006; 96:297-311. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2006.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
|