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Modaresi J, Kadivar A, Esfandabadi NS, Khosravian P, Mohebbi A. Evaluation of the effect of sustained-release progesterone injection on the expression of interferon-related genes in repeat-breeder dairy cows. Vet Med Sci 2024; 10:e70005. [PMID: 39189842 PMCID: PMC11348510 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.70005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Repeat-breeder cows repeatedly fail to conceive after at least three attempts and return to oestrus at apparently normal intervals. Repeat-breeder cows cause economic losses in dairy farms in different ways. OBJECTIVE In the present study, we investigated the effect of sustained-release progesterone injection in two different doses on the expression of interferon-related genes in repeat-breeder dairy cows. METHODS A total of 96 repeat-breeder primiparous and multiparous cows were assigned among three groups: control group, inseminated and do not receive progesterone treatment; P400 and P600 groups, inseminated and received a single-intramuscular injection of 400 and 600 mg slow-release progesterone 5 days after insemination, respectively. Blood sampling was carried out on Day 20 after AI for progesterone measurement and evaluation of gene expression for ISG15, MX1 and MX2 genes. RESULTS One injection of sustained-release progesterone increased the expression of ISG15, MX1 and MX2 genes with differences between two different progesterone concentrations. For all three genes, the level of gene expression was higher in progesterone-supplemented group than in control group, when P400 and P600 groups considered together. The level of MX2 gene expression was significantly higher in pregnant cows than non-pregnant cows. There was a significant positive correlation between expression level of all three genes and blood progesterone concentration. The expression level of ISG15 gene showed a significant positive correlation with MX1 and MX2 gene expression. CONCLUSION The use of this sustained-release progesterone is simple and can be used in repeat-breeder cows to improve fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jahangir Modaresi
- Department of Clinical SciencesFaculty of Veterinary MedicineShahrekord UniversityShahrekordIran
| | - Ali Kadivar
- Department of Clinical SciencesFaculty of Veterinary MedicineShahrekord UniversityShahrekordIran
- Research Institute of Animal Embryo TechnologyShahrekord UniversityShahrekordIran
| | - Naser Shams Esfandabadi
- Department of Clinical SciencesFaculty of Veterinary MedicineShahrekord UniversityShahrekordIran
- Research Institute of Animal Embryo TechnologyShahrekord UniversityShahrekordIran
| | - Pegah Khosravian
- Medicinal Plants Research CenterBasic Health Sciences InstituteShahrekord University of Medical SciencesShahrekordIran
| | - Abdonnaser Mohebbi
- Department of Clinical SciencesFaculty of Veterinary MedicineShahrekord UniversityShahrekordIran
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Sales AFF, Cappellozza BI, Vilela E, Claro Júnior I, Sá Filho OG, Vasconcelos JLM. Effects of equine chorionic gonadotropin dosage and its splitting in different days on reproductive performance of Nellore cows synchronized for timed-artificial insemination. Theriogenology 2024; 218:267-275. [PMID: 38367335 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
This study evaluated the effects of dose of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) and its splitting in different days of the synchronization protocol on reproductive performance of primiparous and multiparous Nellore cows. In the present study, 2,536 Nellore cows (1,634 primiparous and 902 multiparous) were assigned to receive in a 2 × 2 factorial design 1) an intravaginal progesterone (P4) device and 2.0 mg of estradiol benzoate (EB) on day -11, 12.5 mg (i.m.) of dinoprost tromethamine (PGF), 300 IU (i.m.) of eCG, 0.6 mg (i.m.) of estradiol cypionate (ECP), and P4 device withdrawal on day -2, followed by TAI on day 0 (n = 632 cows, being 409 primiparous and 223 multiparous; 300-2), 2) 300 IU (i.m) of eCG administered on days -4 and -2 (150 IU of eCG/day; n = 637 cows, being 412 primiparous and 225 multiparous; 300-4-2), 3) 400 IU (i.m.) of eCG administered on day -2 (n = 633 cows, being 406 primiparous and 227 multiparous; 400-2), and 4) 400 IU (i.m) of eCG administered on days -4 and -2 (200 IU of eCG/day; n = 634 cows, being 407 primiparous and 227 multiparous; 400-4-2). Individual cow BCS was assessed on days -11, 0 (timed-AI), and 31 of the study. Body condition score of the animals was classified into LOW or HIGH using the threshold of 2.75 (≤2.75 = LOW; >2.75 = HIGH). For primiparous cows, an eCG splitting effect was observed on follicle size, as cows receiving eCG on days -4 and -2 of the synchronization protocol had a larger follicle than cows administered eCG only on day -2. For day 31 P/AI, primiparous cows receiving 400-4-2, regardless of BCS, had a greater P/AI than cows from other treatments. Administering 400-4-2 to LOW BCS cows also resulted in greater P/AI than all other treatments assigned to LOW BCS cows. For multiparous cows, no treatment effect was observed for follicle size, estrus expression, and day 31 P/AI (P ≥ 0.21). In summary, increasing the dose and splitting the dose of eCG positively impacted the pregnancy rates of primiparous cows under a BCS ≤2.75, but no effects were detected on multiparous cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- A F F Sales
- Lageado Biotecnologia e Pecuária, Mineiros, GO, 75830-000, Brazil; Department of Animal Production, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, SP, 18168-000, Brazil
| | | | - E Vilela
- Lageado Biotecnologia e Pecuária, Mineiros, GO, 75830-000, Brazil
| | | | | | - J L M Vasconcelos
- Department of Animal Production, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, SP, 18168-000, Brazil.
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Cavalcante de Souza D, Gonella-Diaza AM, de Carvalho NAT, Elliff FM, de Carvalho JGS, Vieira LM, Bonfim-Neto AP, de Carvalho Papa P, Ghuman SS, Madureira EH, Pugliesi G, Binelli M, Baruselli PS. Supplementation with long-acting injectable progesterone 3 days after TAI impaired luteal function in buffaloes. Trop Anim Health Prod 2024; 56:76. [PMID: 38349441 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-024-03913-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Three experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of long-acting injectable progesterone (iP4) in buffalo cows. In Experiment 1, ovariectomized buffaloes received 300 mg (iP300) or 600 mg (iP600) of iP4, and serum P4 concentrations were evaluated. In experiment 2, three groups were compared: control or administration of 300 mg of iP4 3 (iP4-D3) or 6 days (iP4-D6) after timed artificial insemination (TAI). On day 16, reproductive tract was recovered for conceptus, endometrium, and corpus luteum (CL) analysis. In experiment 3, pregnancy per AI (P/TAI) and proportion of pregnancy losses were evaluated after administration of 300 mg of iP4 3 (iP4-D3) or 6 days (iP4-D6) after TAI in lactating buffaloes. In experiment 1, serum P4 concentrations remained over 1 ng/mL for ~ 3 days in both groups. The 300 mg dose was used in subsequent experiments. In experiment 2, CL weight and endometrial glands density were decreased, and conceptus length was increased in iP4-D3 compared to control and to iP4-D6 (P < 0.05). Transcript abundance of Prostaglandin F Receptor (FP) and ISG15 in CL and of ISG15 and MX1 in endometrium was greater in iP4-D3 when compared to control and to iP4-D6 (P < 0.05). In experiment 3, there was no difference among experimental groups for P/TAI at D30 and pregnancy losses (P > 0.1); however, iP4-D3 presented a lower P/TAI at day 60 (41.7%) when compared to control (56.8%) and iP4-D6 (57.7%; P = 0.07). In conclusion, administration iP4 at 3 days after TAI affects CL development and consequently decreases final pregnancy outcome in buffaloes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Cavalcante de Souza
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Angela Maria Gonella-Diaza
- North Florida Research and Education Center, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, 3925 Hwy 75, Marianna, FL, 32446, USA.
| | | | - Flavia Morag Elliff
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Júlia Gleyci Soares de Carvalho
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Lais Mendes Vieira
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Antenor P Bonfim-Neto
- Department of Biological and Health Sciences, São Judas Tadeu University, Mooca, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Ed Hoffman Madureira
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Pugliesi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Mario Binelli
- Department of Animal Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Pietro Sampaio Baruselli
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Neto AL, Ruas FL, Santo BSE, Mattos ACD, Silva JB, Júnior MFD, Pereira DFC, Lacerda IP, Carvalho JO, Pugliesi G. Effects of long-acting injectable progesterone supplementation at early dioestrus on pregnancy maintenance in beef and dairy recipient cattle. Reprod Domest Anim 2024; 59:e14509. [PMID: 38037714 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
We tested in the present study the hypothesis that supplementation with long-acting P4 (iP4) at different times of the initial dioestrus improves pregnancy rates in dairy and beef recipients submitted to fixed-time embryo transfer (FTET). Recipients from commercial farms had their oestrous cycle synchronized with an E2/P4-based protocol in three experiments (Exp. 1 to 3). In Exp. 1, dairy heifers (n = 76) and cows (n = 104) were randomly assigned to two experimental groups: the control group (n = 89) and the iP4D4 group (n = 91). For Exps. 2 and 3, suckled beef recipients were used. In Exp. 2, recipients were assigned to two experimental groups: Control group (n = 147) and iP4D7 group (n = 144); whereas in Exp. 3, recipients were randomly assigned to three experimental groups: Control group (n = 85), iP4-D4 group (n = 86) and iP4D7 group (n = 81). Recipients in the iP4D4 and iP4-D7 groups received an i.m. administration of 150 mg iP4, on D4 or D7 (D0 was the day of expected oestrus). On D7, all recipients were evaluated by transrectal ultrasonography and those that had a CL received a fresh or vitrified in vitro-produced embryo. In Exp. 2 and 3, the CL area was also determined by ultrasonography at the time of FTET. The pregnancy diagnosis was performed at 30 days in Exp. 1, 57 days in Exp. 2, and between 40 and 72 days of pregnancy in Exp. 3. In Exp. 1, the pregnancy rate did not differ (p > .1) between the Control group (38.2% [34/89]) and iP4D4 group (49.5% [45/91]); yet, a parity effect indicated a greater (p < .05) pregnancy rate in heifers (57.9% [44/76]) than cows (30.8% [32/104]). In Exp. 2, the pregnancy rate was greater (p < .05) in the iP4D7 group (45.0% [65/144]) than in the Control group (34.0% [50/147]). Also, a greater (p = .08) pregnancy rate was observed for recipients with a small CL (≤2.75 cm2 ) that were treated with iP4 on the day of FTET than the control recipients (46.4% [32/69] vs. 32.6% [28/86]). In Exp. 3, no significant effects (p > .1) of the treatment group or CL size were detected on pregnancy rates at days 30 and 60. In conclusion, the beneficial effects of iP4 supplementation at early dioestrus on pregnancy maintenance may vary according to the experimental conditions, but its use at the time of FTET can be used as an alternative to enhance the fertility of beef recipients in challenging conditions in commercial herds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adomar Laurindo Neto
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
- Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brazil
| | | | | | - Ana Clara Degan Mattos
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Júnior Borges Silva
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Guilherme Pugliesi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
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5
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Chen F, Hou Y, Zhu X, Mei C, Guo R, Shi Z. Impact of Accessory Corpus Luteum Induced by Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone or Human Chorionic Gonadotropin on Pregnancy Rates of Dairy Cattle following Embryo Transfer: A META-Analysis. Vet Sci 2023; 10:vetsci10050309. [PMID: 37235391 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10050309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The circulation of progesterone (P4) concentrations of recipients has positive correlations with embryo survival and pregnancy success of embryo transfer (ET) in dairy cows. One strategy to improve P4 concentration is the administration of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) or human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), thereby inducing the formation of accessory corpus luteum (CL). This study aimed at determining the efficacy of GnRH or hCG treatment regarding embryo transfer (ET) and providing a better clinical veterinary practice guidance. A meta-analysis was conducted on the data from 2048 treated recipient cows and 1546 untreated cows. By inducing the formation of accessory CL with GnRH (100 µg), GnRH analogue Buserelin (8-10 µg), or hCG (≥1500 IU) 5-11 days after synchronized ovulation, hCG alone achieved an improvement (RR = 1.39, p < 0.05), while GnRH and GnRH analogue did not result in significant changes (RR = 1.04, p = 0.26). Treatment with GnRH or hCG 5-7 days after synchronized ovulation was associated with increased chances of pregnancy compared with later treatment (11-14 days). Owing to the treatment, the pregnancy rate of cows with very poor fertility (<40%) was improved, while that of cows with good fertility (≥40%) was not affected. Treatment with GnRH or hCG greatly improved pregnancy rates of parous lactating cows (RR = 1.32, p < 0.05) compared with heifers (RR = 1.02, p > 0.05). Additionally, as indicated by pregnancy loss analysis, the treatment had no benefit on late embryo/early fetus survival at days 28-81. In conclusion, the induction of accessory CL with GnRH or hCG may benefit fertility and have important implications for the management of reproductive performance in the dairy industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Chen
- Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Yi'an Hou
- Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Xiaoqing Zhu
- Science and Technology Industry Development Center, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Cheng Mei
- Dongying Austasia Modern Dairy Farm Co., Ltd., Dongying 257345, China
| | - Rihong Guo
- Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
- Key Laboratory of Crop and Animal Integrated Farming, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Zhendan Shi
- Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Food Quality and Safety-State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Ministry of Science and Technology, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
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Fontes PLP, Oosthuizen N. Applied Use of Doppler Ultrasonography in Bovine Reproduction. FRONTIERS IN ANIMAL SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fanim.2022.912854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of Doppler ultrasonography to quantify blood vascularization in reproductive organs has increased over the past decade. Doppler technology has predominantly been explored in research settings to evaluate uterine blood flow and to assess follicular and luteal blood perfusion. Recent research has also explored the use of Doppler technology in applied reproductive management for both the beef and dairy industries and has focused on the use of luteal color Doppler ultrasonography to evaluate embryo transfer recipients and perform early pregnancy diagnosis. Although significant progress has been made and current literature indicates a strong potential for the applied use of Doppler ultrasonography to increase reproductive efficiency in the cattle industry, uptake of this technology is still currently limited. This review summarizes the recent developments in the applied use of color Doppler ultrasonography for reproductive management in both beef and dairy cattle herds.
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Size and number of corpora lutea and serum progesterone concentrations when administering two doses of eCG in an estrous synchronization treatment regimen for dairy cattle. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 222:106620. [PMID: 33069131 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
There was investigation of whether there were ovulations from co-dominant follicles following eCG administration. In all experiments, there was GnRH injection and CIDR insertion on day 0 (D0), CIDR withdrawal on D8, and cloprostenol administration on D8 (Exp. I and II) or D7 and D8 (Exp. III). Females in the control group were not administered any further treatment. Females in other group(s) were treated with eCG (500 IU) on Day 2 in Exp. I, Day 2 (eCG-2) or 8 (eCG-8) in Exp. II and Day 2 (eCG-2) or Days 2 and 6 (eCG-2-6) in Exp. III. Ovaries were examined using ultrasonography. In Experiments I and II, females had follicle emergence on Day 2. At the time of CIDR removal, more eCG-treated heifers (8/9; Exp. I) and cows (5/6; eCG-2; Exp. II) had co-dominant follicles compared to those in the control group (P < 0.05). Occurrence of ovulations from co-dominant for individual cows was minimal. In Experiment III, the time period from CIDR removal to estrus in cows treated with eCG-2 (68 ± 13 h) was longer compared to cows in the control (37±2 h) and eCG-2-6-treated group (38 ± 5 h; P < 0.05). There was a greater proportion of heifers having ovulations and thus greater progesterone concentration in the eCG-2-6 than eCG-2 group (P < 0.05). Administering eCG twice 4 days apart with the initial administration being two days after GnRH administration, at the time of follicle wave emergence, could induce growth of and ovulation from co-dominant follicles and enhance progesterone production in cattle.
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Franchi FF, Satrapa RA, Fontes PK, Santos PH, Razza EM, Emanuelli IP, Ereno RL, Mareco EA, Nogueira MFG, Barros CM, de Souza Castilho AC. Equine chorionic gonadotropin drives the transcriptional profile of immature cumulus-oocyte complexes and in vitro-produced blastocysts of superstimulated Nelore cows. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:1639-1651. [PMID: 31389116 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Studies have shown that the use of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG), which binds both follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) receptors, could modify the female reproductive tract. We, thus, aimed to quantify the messenger RNA (mRNA) abundance of genes related to cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) and embryo quality in Nelore cows (Bos taurus indicus) submitted to ovarian superstimulation using only FSH (FSH group; n = 10) or replacement of the last two doses of FSH by eCG (FSH/eCG group; n = 10). All animals were slaughtered and the ovarian antral follicles from both groups (10-14 mm in diameter) were aspirated for cumulus, oocyte and in vitro embryo production gene expression analysis. The relative mRNA abundance of 96 genes related to COCs development and embryo quality was measured by RT-qPCR. We found that oocytes are more affected by eCG use and that 35 genes involved in lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, transcriptional control, and cellular development were upregulated in the FSH/eCG group. In blastocysts, lipid metabolism seems to be the main pathway regulated by eCG use. We suggest that these multiple effects could be due to the ability of eCG to bind LHR and FSHR, which could activate multiple signal transduction pathways in the superstimulated ovary, further impacting the transcriptional profile of COCs and blastocysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Fagali Franchi
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rafael Augusto Satrapa
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Kubo Fontes
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Priscila Helena Santos
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Montanari Razza
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Isabele Picada Emanuelli
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ronaldo Luiz Ereno
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Ciro Moraes Barros
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
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Martins T, Pugliesi G, Sponchiado M, Cardoso BO, da Silva KR, Celeghini ECC, Binelli M. Supplementation with long-acting progesterone in early diestrus in beef cattle: II. Relationships between follicle growth dynamics and luteolysis. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2019; 68:1-10. [PMID: 30772664 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2018.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The aims were to characterize follicular dynamics in response to supplemental progesterone (P4) and to investigate the relationships between follicular growth and onset of luteolysis in P4-treated cows, submitted or not to artificial insemination (AI). Nonsuckled beef cows detected in estrus were assigned to receive AI or to remain non-AI. Three days after ovulation (ie, D3), AI cows were injected with 150 mg of long-acting P4 (AI + injectable P4 formulation [iP4]; n = 22), and the non-AI cows were assigned to receive 150 mg iP4 (n = 19) or saline (control, n = 19). Between D3 and D21, growth dynamics of the dominant follicles (DFs) was monitored by ultrasonography. Plasma P4 concentrations were measured every other day from D9 to D19. Pregnancy status (ie, P: pregnant and NP: nonpregnant) was examined by ultrasound on D28 to D32. Injectable P4 formulation supplementation decreased average maximum diameter of first-wave DF (DF1). Neither day of emergence of DF2 or DF3 nor the proportion of two- or three-wave cycles were altered by supplemental P4. Daily mean diameter of DF2 and DF3 was also similar between control and iP4 groups. Consistently, daily mean diameter of DF1 in iP4-treated cows was smaller for cows that underwent luteolysis by D15 compared to a later onset. Progesterone concentrations between D9 and D19 decreased earliest in the iP4 group, latest in the control group and was intermediate for the NP-AI + iP4 group. In addition, three-wave cycles presented a delayed decrease on plasma P4 concentrations than two-wave cycles. Further analysis revealed that on two-wave cycles, P4 concentrations on D15 were lowest in the iP4 and NP-AI + iP4 animals compared to the control and P-AI + iP4 groups. Conversely, for three-wave cycles, on D15, P-AI + iP4, NP-AI + iP4, and controls had greater P4 concentrations than the iP4 group. In summary, our data indicate that impairment of first follicular growth was associated with P4-induced shortened luteal lifespan (D14-D15) and that three-wave cycles after AI can be more supportive for pregnancy maintenance in P4-treated cows. We speculate that such conditions play a critical role in the embryonic ability to inhibit iP4-induced early luteolysis reported in part I of this series.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Martins
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - G Pugliesi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - M Sponchiado
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - B O Cardoso
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - K R da Silva
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - E C C Celeghini
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - M Binelli
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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Martins T, Pugliesi G, Sponchiado M, Cardoso BO, Gomes NS, Mello BP, Celeghini ECC, Binelli M. Supplementation with long-acting progesterone in early diestrus in beef cattle: I. effect of artificial insemination on onset of luteolysis. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2019; 67:63-70. [PMID: 30755339 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2018.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone (P4) supplementation in early diestrus advances changes in the endometrial transcriptome, stimulating embryonic development. However, it also induces early onset of luteolysis. Occurrence of luteolysis before D16 postmating can be detrimental to fertility. A potential counteracting role of the elongating conceptus on early luteolysis is understood poorly. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of artificial insemination (AI; ie, pregnancy) on the temporal dynamics of luteolysis of cows supplemented with P4. Nonsuckled beef cows were inseminated at 12 h after estrus (D0: ovulation) or were not inseminated (no-AI). On D3, the AI cows were assigned to receive a single dose of 150 mg of injectable long-acting P4 via intramuscular injection (AI + iP4; n = 23), and the no-AI cows were assigned to receive iP4 (iP4; n = 21) or saline (control, n = 22). Corpus luteum (CL) development and regression were determined by ultrasonography (US) between D3 and D21. Plasma P4 concentrations were measured on D3 and every other day from D9 to D21. Pregnancy status was determined by US (D28‒D32). iP4 supplementation reduced luteal development (D5-D10) compared to the control group and increased incidence of luteolysis between D14 and D15. On D15, the proportion of cows that underwent luteolysis and plasma P4 concentrations differed between the iP4 group (47.6; 2.10 ± 0.47) and the control group (13.6; 4.40 ± 0.46) and was intermediate in the AI + iP4 group, respectively (26.1%; 3.70 ± 0.45 ng/mL; P < 0.05). The AI effects were due to the pregnant cows (n = 7). Considering nonpregnant cows only, the proportion of early luteolysis in the AI + iP4 group (37.5%) was similar to the iP4 group. Pregnancy was not established in cows having a shortened luteal lifespan. Indeed, interval to luteolysis in the AI + iP4 group (15.50 ± 0.66 d) was similar to the iP4 group (16.38 ± 0.46 d), but less than the control group (17.38 ± 0.40 d; P = 0.05). In conclusion, the effect of AI on extending luteal lifespan occurred exclusively in cows that maintained pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Martins
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - G Pugliesi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - M Sponchiado
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - B O Cardoso
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - N S Gomes
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - B P Mello
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - E C C Celeghini
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - M Binelli
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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Martins T, Sponchiado M, Ojeda-Rojas OA, Gonella-Diaza AM, Batista EOS, Cardoso BO, Rocha CC, Basso AC, Binelli M. Exacerbated conceptus signaling does not favor establishment of pregnancy in beef cattle. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2018; 9:87. [PMID: 30555692 PMCID: PMC6284308 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-018-0302-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Insufficient production of anti-luteolytic signals by the pre-attachment embryo is considered a major cause of pregnancy failure in cattle. We tested the hypothesis that transfer of multiple blastocysts (n = 5/recipient) and progesterone (P4) supplementation amplify anti-luteolytic signaling and reduce embryonic losses in beef cattle. Cows detected in estrus (D0; n = 104) were assigned randomly to receive 150 mg of injectable long-acting P4 (iP4) or vehicle (non-iP4) on D4 and transcervical transfer of none or five, grade 1, not-frozen, in vitro-produced blastocysts, on D7. Luteal development and time of structural luteolysis were monitored by ultrasonography. Plasma P4 concentrations were determined on D4, D5 and D7, and daily between D14 and D20. Conceptus signaling was monitored by transcript abundance of interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated on D14, D16, D18 and D20. Early embryonic mortality (EEM) was defined as the absence of ISG15 mRNA upregulation over time and/or luteal regression up to D20. Late embryonic mortality (LEM) was defined as the absence of a conceptus with a heartbeat on pregnancy diagnosis at D30 (PD30) after observing upregulation of ISG15 mRNA and extension of luteal lifespan. Pregnant cows presented conceptuses with heartbeat at PD30. Results On D5, iP4-treated cows had P4 concentrations 2.07-fold greater than non-iP4 treated (P < 0.001). On D7, P4 concentrations were similar. Pregnant and LEM animals showed a progressive increase in the abundance of ISG15 from D14 to D20. iP4-treated cows detected pregnant at PD30 had 1.53-fold greater abundance of ISG15 mRNA between D14 and D20 than non-iP4 treated cows (P = 0.05). iP4 doubled the frequency of EEM while it did not affect LEM. At PD30, embryonic survival was 37.0% vs. 55.6% for iP4-treated vs. control cows. Majority of pregnant cows (71%) presented only a single viable embryo. Conclusions A substantial proportion of cows had EEM (31%) and LEM (20%) even after transferring multiple blastocysts. This argues that mortality was due to poor uterine receptivity that could not be reversed by supplemental P4 or overcome by transferring multiple blastocysts. Further, a given uterine environment was not necessarily adequate to all embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Martins
- 1Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - M Sponchiado
- 1Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - O A Ojeda-Rojas
- 2Department of Nutrition and Animal Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - A M Gonella-Diaza
- 1Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - E O S Batista
- 1Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - B O Cardoso
- 1Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - C C Rocha
- 1Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - A C Basso
- In Vitro Brasil, Mogi Mirim, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - M Binelli
- 4Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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Randi F, Sánchez JM, Herlihy MM, Valenza A, Kenny DA, Butler ST, Lonergan P. Effect of equine chorionic gonadotropin treatment during a progesterone-based timed artificial insemination program on reproductive performance in seasonal-calving lactating dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2018; 101:10526-10535. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2018-14495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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Reproductive performance of Bos indicus beef cows treated with different doses of equine chorionic gonadotropin at the end of a progesterone-estrogen based protocol for fixed-time artificial insemination. Theriogenology 2018; 118:150-156. [PMID: 29906665 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.06.003] [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: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Two experiments were performed to evaluate the reproductive performance of zebu beef cows treated with different doses of eCG at the end of a progesterone (P4)/estrogen based protocol for timed artificial insemination (TAI). In Experiment 1, suckling Bos indicus Nelore cows (n = 261) received, on day 0, a progesterone (P4) intravaginal device (PD) and an injection of 1 mg estradiol benzoate (EB). On day 8, the PD was removed, 500 μg of cloprostenol was injected, and cows were assigned to one of the following groups: Control (no treatment), 300 (300 IU of eCG), 600 (600 IU of eCG), and 900 (900 IU of eCG). On day 9, all cows received 1 mg EB and TAI performed 54-56 h after cloprostenol injection. A pregnancy diagnosis was done by ultrasound scanning 40 days after TAI, and the number of fetuses and calves was recorded at pregnancy diagnosis and at birth. More cows treated with eCG displayed estrus within 48 h after removal of the PD (42.3% vs. 11.6%, P < 0.01), and ovulated more than one follicle (42%, 58/138 vs. 1.8%, 1/54; P < 0.01). This effect on ovulation rate was dose dependent (P < 0.05). The pregnancy rate was affected only by cow parity (primiparous, 25.3% vs. multiparous, 48.9%; P < 0.01). Twin pregnancy was higher (P < 0.01) in cows treated with eCG (42%, 58/138) than controls (0%, 0/54). However, few cows (33.3%) were able to keep both fetuses intact until birth. For evaluation of ovarian characteristics by B-mode and Doppler ultrasonography, 43 Nelore cows were submitted In Experiment 2 to the same four groups described in Experiment 1. Although no difference (P > 0.1) was observed for size and blood perfusion in the pre-ovulatory follicles, corpus luteum was larger and with greater blood perfusion (P < 0.05) in eCG-treated cows. In conclusion, eCG increased the number of double/multiple ovulations in a dose-dependent manner, induced larger and more vascularized corpora lutea, but did not affect the fertility of cyclic or anestrous cows. Although eCG results in twin pregnancies, most of cows underwet embryo/fetus loss and birth a single calf.
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Núñez-Olivera R, de Castro T, Bó GA, Piaggio J, Menchaca A. Equine chorionic gonadotropin administration after insemination affects luteal function and pregnancy establishment in postpartum anestrous beef cows. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2018; 62:24-31. [PMID: 28910675 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2017.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Revised: 07/15/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Two experiments were conducted with the aim of determining the effect of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) administration on day 14 after insemination on ovarian response and pregnancy establishment in postpartum anestrous beef cows. In both experiments, cows were subjected to a progesterone- and estradiol-based treatment for fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) and were randomly allocated into 4 groups to receive or not receive eCG (400 IU) at the time of device removal and/or at 14 d after FTAI. In experiment 1, from day 14 to 22, daily ultrasonographic determinations were performed to monitor ovarian dynamics, and blood was collected to determine hormone concentrations in 60 cows. In experiment 2, confirmation of pregnancy was performed at 30 and 60 d after FTAI in 1,060 anestrous cows assigned to the same experimental design. Cows that received eCG on day 14 after FTAI showed increases in corpus luteum area (P < 0.01), follicle diameter (P < 0.05), serum progesterone concentrations (P < 0.01), and estradiol-17β concentrations (P < 0.01), compared with cows that did not receive eCG on day 14. Pregnancy rate on day 30 was greater in those cows that received both eCG treatments (ie, at device removal and 14 d after insemination) than in those that did not receive eCG treatment (P < 0.05). In conclusion, eCG administered on day 14 after FTAI increases serum progesterone concentrations during the critical period of pregnancy in anestrous cows, and this second eCG treatment seems to have a positive effect on achieving pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Núñez-Olivera
- Instituto de Reproducción Animal Uruguay, Fundación IRAUy, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - T de Castro
- Instituto de Reproducción Animal Uruguay, Fundación IRAUy, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - G A Bó
- Instituto de Reproducción Animal Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina; Instituto A.P. de Ciencias Básicas y Aplicadas, Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad Nacional de Villa María, Villa del Rosario, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - J Piaggio
- Departamento de Bioestadística, Facultad de Veterinaria, UDELAR, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - A Menchaca
- Instituto de Reproducción Animal Uruguay, Fundación IRAUy, Montevideo, Uruguay.
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García-Pintos C, Menchaca A. Pregnancy establishment and maintenance after the administration of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) associated or not with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) after insemination in sheep. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2018. [DOI: 10.1071/an16489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
It was recently demonstrated that equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) treatment 10 days after ovulation increases serum progesterone concentrations in sheep. The objective of the present study was to evaluate pregnancy outcomes induced with the administration of eCG and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) after insemination. Three experiments were conducted in multiparous ewes that received fixed-time intrauterine insemination (Day 0) after a progesterone-based protocol for oestrus synchronisation. Experiment 1 consisted of 408 ewes, randomly assigned to three experimental groups; ewes in the first and second group received 400 IU of eCG on Day 5 and Day 10 after insemination respectively, while ewes on the third (control) group did not receive eCG. In Experiment 2, 587 ewes were randomly assigned to four experimental groups (2 × 2 factorial experiment), to receive or not 400 IU of eCG on Day 5, associated or not with 100 µg of GnRH analogue on Day 6 (i.e. 30 h after eCG administration). In Experiment 3, 715 ewes were randomly assigned to four experimental groups (2 × 2 factorial experiment), to receive or not 400 IU of eCG on Day 10, associated or not with 100 µg of GnRH analogue on Day 11 (i.e. 30 h after eCG administration). Pregnancy diagnosis was determined on Day 30 and Day 70 by ultrasonography. The eCG treatment after insemination failed to improve pregnancy outcomes in Experiments 1 and 2. However, in Experiment 3 the treatment with eCG on Day 10 enhanced pregnancy rate on Day 30, although this improvement was not maintained on Day 70, which showed greater pregnancy failure. The administration of GnRH on Day 6 or Day 11, preceded or not by eCG, did not affect any of the variables related to pregnancy. In summary, the improvement in progesterone profiles induced by eCG treatment on Day 10 after insemination, previously reported in sheep, seems to have a marginal positive effect on pregnancy establishment during the first month, which is not maintained during the second month of gestation.
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Shorten PR, Ledgard AM, Donnison M, Pfeffer PL, McDonald RM, Berg DK. A mathematical model of the interaction between bovine blastocyst developmental stage and progesterone-stimulated uterine factors on differential embryonic development observed on Day 15 of gestation. J Dairy Sci 2017; 101:736-751. [PMID: 29103729 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2017-12845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2017] [Accepted: 09/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A complex interaction between the developing bovine embryo and the growth potential of the uterine milieu it inhabits results in an embryo capable of developing past the maternal recognition stage and on to a successful pregnancy. Previously, we observed variation in the lengths of embryos recovered 8 d after bulk transfer of Day 7 in vitro-produced (IVP) blastocysts into the same uterus. Potential causes of the differential embryonic growth were examined and modeled using 2 rounds of bulk (n = 4-6) IVP transfers and recovery of these embryos 8 d later. Morphological and gene expression measurements of the embryos were determined and the progesterone concentration of the cows was measured throughout the reproductive cycle as a reflection of the status of the uterine environment. These data were used to develop and evaluate a model that describes the interaction between the uterine environment and the growth rate of the developing embryo. Expression of 6 trophectoderm genes (IFNT, TKDP1, PAG11, PTGS2, DKK1, and PDPN) was correlated with conceptus length. The model determined that if the embryo develops to blastocyst stage, the uterine environment, driven by progesterone, is a more important component than blastocyst size in the stimulation of embryonic growth rate to ensure adequate interferon tau (IFNT) for pregnancy recognition. We detected an effect of Day 7 progesterone on the expression of all 6 genes, embryonic disc size, and trophectoderm length on Day 15. We also found effects of embryo transfer size on trophectoderm length and expression of IFNT and PAG11 on Day 15. Lower energy balance over the period from transfer to recovery was associated with reduced embryo growth to Day 15, and this effect was independent of progesterone. Energy balance also affected expression of PDPN and TKDP1 on Day 15. We observed an effect of energy balance from transfer to recovery on embryo survival in cows with partial embryo losses, where embryo factors dominate embryo survival, with cows with greater energy balance having lower embryo losses. This effect was independent of energy balance 40 d before transfer and suggests that energy balance has direct, immediate effects on the embryo and maternal environment during this period. Furthermore, energy balance effects on embryo survival in cows with partial embryo losses were largely mediated by expression of TKDP1, PAG11, and PDPN. These results provide candidate signaling pathways for the effect of progesterone and energy balance on embryo growth and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul R Shorten
- AgResearch Ltd., Ruakura Research Centre, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton 3240, New Zealand.
| | - Anita M Ledgard
- AgResearch Ltd., Ruakura Research Centre, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton 3240, New Zealand
| | - Martyn Donnison
- AgResearch Ltd., Ruakura Research Centre, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton 3240, New Zealand
| | - Peter L Pfeffer
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington 6140, New Zealand
| | - Robin M McDonald
- AgResearch Ltd., Ruakura Research Centre, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton 3240, New Zealand
| | - Debra K Berg
- AgResearch Ltd., Ruakura Research Centre, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton 3240, New Zealand
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The Role of Progesterone in Maternal Recognition of Pregnancy in Domestic Ruminants. REGULATION OF IMPLANTATION AND ESTABLISHMENT OF PREGNANCY IN MAMMALS 2015; 216:87-104. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-15856-3_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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