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Zhao R, Bai Y, Yang F. Melatonin in animal husbandry: functions and applications. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1444578. [PMID: 39286597 PMCID: PMC11402905 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1444578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is an essential small molecule with diverse biological functions. It plays several key roles, including regulating the secretion of reproductive hormones and the reproductive cycle, enhancing the functionality of reproductive organs, improving the quality of sperm and eggs, and mitigating oxidative stress in the reproductive system. Melatonin effectively inhibits and scavenges excess free radicals while activating the antioxidant enzyme system and reduces the production of inflammatory factors and alleviates tissue damage caused by inflammation by regulating inflammatory pathways. Additionally, melatonin contributes to repairing the intestinal barrier and regulating the gut microbiota, thereby reducing bacterial and toxin permeation. The use of melatonin as an endogenous hormone in animal husbandry has garnered considerable attention because of its positive effects on animal production performance, reproductive outcomes, stress adaptation, disease treatment, and environmental sustainability. This review explores the characteristics and biological functions of melatonin, along with its current applications in animal production. Our findings may serve as a reference for the use of melatonin in animal farming and future developmental directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruohan Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yicheng Bai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Fangxiao Yang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Vocational and Technical College of Agriculture, Kunming, Yunnan, China
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Malhotra A, Rocha AKAA, Yawno T, Sutherland AE, Allison BJ, Nitsos I, Pham Y, Jenkin G, Castillo-Melendez M, Miller SL. Neuroprotective effects of maternal melatonin administration in early-onset placental insufficiency and fetal growth restriction. Pediatr Res 2024; 95:1510-1518. [PMID: 38225450 PMCID: PMC11126390 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-024-03027-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early-onset fetal growth restriction (FGR) is associated with adverse outcomes. We hypothesised that maternal melatonin administration will improve fetal brain structure in FGR. METHODS Surgery was performed on twin-bearing ewes at 88 days (0.6 gestation), and FGR induced in one twin via single umbilical artery ligation. Melatonin was administered intravenously (6 mg/day) to a group of ewes commencing on day of surgery until 127 days (0.85 gestation), when the ewe/fetuses were euthanized, and fetal brains collected. RESULTS Study groups were control (n = 5), FGR (n = 5), control+melatonin (control+MLT; n = 6) and FGR+melatonin (FGR + MLT; n = 6). Melatonin administration did not significantly alter fetal body or brain weights. Myelin (CNPase+) fibre density was reduced in FGR vs. control animals in most brain regions examined (p < 0.05) and melatonin treatment restored CNPase fibre density. Similar but less pronounced effect was seen with mature myelin (MBP+) staining. Significant differences in activated microglia (Iba-1) activity were seen between lamb groups (MLT mitigated FGR effect) in periventricular white matter, subventricular zone and external capsule (p < 0.05). Similar effects were seen in astrogliosis (GFAP) in intragyral white matter and cortex. CONCLUSIONS Maternal melatonin administration in early onset FGR led to improved myelination of white matter brain regions, possibly mediated by decreased inflammation. IMPACT Maternal melatonin administration might lead to neuroprotection in the growth-restricted fetus, possibly via dampening neuroinflammation and enhancing myelination. This preclinical study adds to the body of work on this topic, and informs clinical translation. Neuroprotection likely to improve long-term outcomes of this vulnerable infant group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atul Malhotra
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Monash Newborn, Monash Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Anna K A A Rocha
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Tamara Yawno
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Amy E Sutherland
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Beth J Allison
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ilias Nitsos
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Yen Pham
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Graham Jenkin
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Margie Castillo-Melendez
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Suzanne L Miller
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Afzaal M, Khan MIUR, Ahmad W, Hayat A, Abbas Q, Arshad M, Hameed N, Mohsin I, Riaz A. Effects of prepartum melatonin treatment and suckling on postpartum reproductive performance of Beetal goats under subtropical conditions. Small Rumin Res 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2023.106936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
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Montoya-Santiyanes LA, Chay-Canul AJ, Camacho-Pérez E, Rodríguez-Abreo O. A novel model for estimating the body weight of Pelibuey sheep through Gray Wolf Optimizer algorithm. JOURNAL OF APPLIED ANIMAL RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/09712119.2022.2123812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Luis Alvaro Montoya-Santiyanes
- Universidad Politécnica de Querétaro, El Marqués, Querétaro, México
- Red de investigación OAC optimización, automatización y control, El Marqués, Querétaro, México
| | - Alfonso Juventino Chay-Canul
- División Académica de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco, Colonia Centro Tabasco, México
| | - Enrique Camacho-Pérez
- Red de investigación OAC optimización, automatización y control, El Marqués, Querétaro, México
- Tecnológico Nacional de México/Instituto Tecnológico Superior Progreso, Progreso, Yucatán, México
| | - Omar Rodríguez-Abreo
- Universidad Politécnica de Querétaro, El Marqués, Querétaro, México
- Red de investigación OAC optimización, automatización y control, El Marqués, Querétaro, México
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Sebastiani G, Navarro-Tapia E, Almeida-Toledano L, Serra-Delgado M, Paltrinieri AL, García-Algar Ó, Andreu-Fernández V. Effects of Antioxidant Intake on Fetal Development and Maternal/Neonatal Health during Pregnancy. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:648. [PMID: 35453333 PMCID: PMC9028185 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11040648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, cycles of hypoxia and oxidative stress play a key role in the proper development of the fetus. Hypoxia during the first weeks is crucial for placental development, while the increase in oxygen due to the influx of maternal blood stimulates endothelial growth and angiogenesis. However, an imbalance in the number of oxidative molecules due to endogenous or exogenous factors can overwhelm defense systems and lead to excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Many pregnancy complications, generated by systemic inflammation and placental vasoconstriction, such as preeclampsia (PE), fetal growth restriction (FGR) and preterm birth (PTB), are related to this increase of ROS. Antioxidants may be a promising tool in this population. However, clinical evidence on their use, especially those of natural origin, is scarce and controversial. Following PRISMA methodology, the current review addresses the use of natural antioxidants, such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), melatonin and resveratrol (RESV), as well as other classical antioxidants (vitamin C and E) during the prenatal period as treatment of the above-mentioned complications. We review the effect of antioxidant supplementation on breast milk in lactating mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Sebastiani
- Department of Neonatology, Hospital Clínic-Maternitat, ICGON, BCNatal, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (G.S.); (A.L.P.)
| | - Elisabet Navarro-Tapia
- Grup de Recerca Infancia i Entorn (GRIE), Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain;
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Valencian International University (VIU), 46002 Valencia, Spain
| | - Laura Almeida-Toledano
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain; (L.A.-T.); (M.S.-D.)
- BCNatal, Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), University of Barcelona, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mariona Serra-Delgado
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain; (L.A.-T.); (M.S.-D.)
- BCNatal, Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), University of Barcelona, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Lucia Paltrinieri
- Department of Neonatology, Hospital Clínic-Maternitat, ICGON, BCNatal, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (G.S.); (A.L.P.)
| | - Óscar García-Algar
- Department of Neonatology, Hospital Clínic-Maternitat, ICGON, BCNatal, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (G.S.); (A.L.P.)
- Grup de Recerca Infancia i Entorn (GRIE), Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Vicente Andreu-Fernández
- Grup de Recerca Infancia i Entorn (GRIE), Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain;
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Valencian International University (VIU), 46002 Valencia, Spain
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Freitas-de-Melo A, Sales F, Ungerfeld R, Parraguez VH. Melatonin treatment during late gestation of undernourished ewes: lamb body temperature and mother–young behaviours after birth. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.1071/an21016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
ContextIn extensive grazing sheep systems, pregnant ewes undergo periods of undernutrition because gestation coincides with winter when natural pasture is of lowest quantity and poorest quality. The lamb’s weight and thermoregulatory capacity, and the ewe–lamb bond at birth, may be compromised. Maternal melatonin treatment during gestation may reverse these effects.AimThe aim was to determine the effects of melatonin treatment of single-lambing, undernourished ewes during the last third of gestation on lamb birthweights and body temperatures, and on ewe–lamb interactive behaviour after birth.MethodsAt Day 100 of gestation, 39 single-bearing ewes received a subcutaneous melatonin implant, and 54 ewes served as controls with no implant. Throughout gestation, the ewes remained under extensive conditions grazing on natural pasture. Measurements were made of lamb birthweight, body temperatures (surface temperature by infrared thermography and rectal temperature), and ewe–lamb behaviours during a handling test at 6–17h after lambing.Key resultsThere was no effect of melatonin treatment on lamb birthweight or rectal temperature, or on ewe–lamb interaction behaviours. Hip minimum surface temperature was greater in lambs from melatonin-treated ewes than lambs from control ewes (21.2°C±0.9°C vs 18.8°C±0.8°C; P=0.05), and there was a similar trend for hip mean surface temperature (24.6°C±0.9°C vs 22.3°C±0.7°C; P=0.06). Rump surface temperatures were greater in male than female lambs: maximum (27.9°C±1.2°C vs 22.9°C±1.2°C; P=0.01), minimum (22.2°C±1.5°C vs 16.7°C±1.5°C; P=0.02) and mean (25.4°C±1.3°C vs 20.5°C±1.3°C; P=0.02).ConclusionMelatonin treatment during the last third of ewe pregnancy slightly enhanced the surface temperature of lambs at birth but did not influence ewe–lamb interaction behaviour after birth (i.e. after establishment of the ewe–lamb bond).ImplicationsFurther study in more depth is warranted into the possible effects of maternal supplementation with commercial melatonin implants on lamb development, thermoregulatory capacity, behaviour and survival rates in extensive grazing systems, including the effect on ewe–lamb behaviours immediately after birth for both singletons and twins.
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Peng X, Cai X, Li J, Huang Y, Liu H, He J, Fang Z, Feng B, Tang J, Lin Y, Jiang X, Hu L, Xu S, Zhuo Y, Che L, Wu D. Effects of Melatonin Supplementation during Pregnancy on Reproductive Performance, Maternal-Placental-Fetal Redox Status, and Placental Mitochondrial Function in a Sow Model. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:1867. [PMID: 34942970 PMCID: PMC8698367 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10121867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin (MT) is a bio-antioxidant that has been widely used to prevent pregnancy complications, such as pre-eclampsia and IUGR during gestation. This experiment evaluated the impacts of dietary MT supplementation during pregnancy on reproductive performance, maternal-placental-fetal redox status, placental inflammatory response, and mitochondrial function, and sought a possible underlying mechanism in the placenta. Sixteen fifth parity sows were divided into two groups and fed each day of the gestation period either a control diet or a diet that was the same but for 36 mg of MT. The results showed that dietary supplementation with MT increased placental weight, while the percentage of piglets born with weight < 900 g decreased. Meanwhile, serum and placental MT levels, maternal-placental-fetal redox status, and placental inflammatory response were increased by MT. In addition, dietary MT markedly increased the mRNA levels of nutrient transporters and antioxidant-related genes involved in the Nrf2/ARE pathway in the placenta. Furthermore, dietary MT significantly increased ATP and NAD+ levels, relative mtDNA content, and the protein expression of Sirt1 in the placenta. These results suggested that MT supplementation during gestation could improve maternal-placental-fetal redox status and reproductive performance by ameliorating placental antioxidant status, inflammatory response, and mitochondrial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xie Peng
- Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education, Animal Nutrition Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (X.P.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (Y.H.); (H.L.); (J.H.); (Z.F.); (B.F.); (J.T.); (Y.L.); (X.J.); (S.X.); (Y.Z.); (L.C.)
| | - Xuelin Cai
- Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education, Animal Nutrition Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (X.P.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (Y.H.); (H.L.); (J.H.); (Z.F.); (B.F.); (J.T.); (Y.L.); (X.J.); (S.X.); (Y.Z.); (L.C.)
| | - Jian Li
- Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education, Animal Nutrition Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (X.P.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (Y.H.); (H.L.); (J.H.); (Z.F.); (B.F.); (J.T.); (Y.L.); (X.J.); (S.X.); (Y.Z.); (L.C.)
| | - Yingyan Huang
- Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education, Animal Nutrition Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (X.P.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (Y.H.); (H.L.); (J.H.); (Z.F.); (B.F.); (J.T.); (Y.L.); (X.J.); (S.X.); (Y.Z.); (L.C.)
| | - Hao Liu
- Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education, Animal Nutrition Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (X.P.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (Y.H.); (H.L.); (J.H.); (Z.F.); (B.F.); (J.T.); (Y.L.); (X.J.); (S.X.); (Y.Z.); (L.C.)
| | - Jiaqi He
- Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education, Animal Nutrition Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (X.P.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (Y.H.); (H.L.); (J.H.); (Z.F.); (B.F.); (J.T.); (Y.L.); (X.J.); (S.X.); (Y.Z.); (L.C.)
| | - Zhengfeng Fang
- Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education, Animal Nutrition Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (X.P.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (Y.H.); (H.L.); (J.H.); (Z.F.); (B.F.); (J.T.); (Y.L.); (X.J.); (S.X.); (Y.Z.); (L.C.)
| | - Bin Feng
- Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education, Animal Nutrition Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (X.P.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (Y.H.); (H.L.); (J.H.); (Z.F.); (B.F.); (J.T.); (Y.L.); (X.J.); (S.X.); (Y.Z.); (L.C.)
| | - Jiayong Tang
- Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education, Animal Nutrition Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (X.P.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (Y.H.); (H.L.); (J.H.); (Z.F.); (B.F.); (J.T.); (Y.L.); (X.J.); (S.X.); (Y.Z.); (L.C.)
| | - Yan Lin
- Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education, Animal Nutrition Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (X.P.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (Y.H.); (H.L.); (J.H.); (Z.F.); (B.F.); (J.T.); (Y.L.); (X.J.); (S.X.); (Y.Z.); (L.C.)
| | - Xuemei Jiang
- Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education, Animal Nutrition Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (X.P.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (Y.H.); (H.L.); (J.H.); (Z.F.); (B.F.); (J.T.); (Y.L.); (X.J.); (S.X.); (Y.Z.); (L.C.)
| | - Liang Hu
- College of Food Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya’an 625014, China;
| | - Shengyu Xu
- Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education, Animal Nutrition Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (X.P.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (Y.H.); (H.L.); (J.H.); (Z.F.); (B.F.); (J.T.); (Y.L.); (X.J.); (S.X.); (Y.Z.); (L.C.)
| | - Yong Zhuo
- Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education, Animal Nutrition Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (X.P.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (Y.H.); (H.L.); (J.H.); (Z.F.); (B.F.); (J.T.); (Y.L.); (X.J.); (S.X.); (Y.Z.); (L.C.)
| | - Lianqiang Che
- Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education, Animal Nutrition Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (X.P.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (Y.H.); (H.L.); (J.H.); (Z.F.); (B.F.); (J.T.); (Y.L.); (X.J.); (S.X.); (Y.Z.); (L.C.)
| | - De Wu
- Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education, Animal Nutrition Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (X.P.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (Y.H.); (H.L.); (J.H.); (Z.F.); (B.F.); (J.T.); (Y.L.); (X.J.); (S.X.); (Y.Z.); (L.C.)
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Maternal Melatonin Deficiency Leads to Endocrine Pathologies in Children in Early Ontogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22042058. [PMID: 33669686 PMCID: PMC7922827 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22042058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The review summarizes the results of experimental and clinical studies aimed at elucidating the causes and pathophysiological mechanisms of the development of endocrine pathology in children. The modern data on the role of epigenetic influences in the early ontogenesis of unfavorable factors that violate the patterns of the formation of regulatory mechanisms during periods of critical development of fetal organs and systems and contribute to the delayed development of pathological conditions are considered. The mechanisms of the participation of melatonin in the regulation of metabolic processes and the key role of maternal melatonin in the formation of the circadian system of regulation in the fetus and in the protection of the genetic program of its morphofunctional development during pregnancy complications are presented. Melatonin, by controlling DNA methylation and histone modification, prevents changes in gene expression that are directly related to the programming of endocrine pathology in offspring. Deficiency and absence of the circadian rhythm of maternal melatonin underlies violations of the genetic program for the development of hormonal and metabolic regulatory mechanisms of the functional systems of the child, which determines the programming and implementation of endocrine pathology in early ontogenesis, contributing to its development in later life. The significance of this factor in the pathophysiological mechanisms of endocrine disorders determines a new approach to risk assessment and timely prevention of offspring diseases even at the stage of family planning.
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Flinn T, Gunn JR, Kind KL, Swinbourne AM, Weaver AC, Kelly JM, Walker SK, Gatford KL, van Wettere WHEJ, Kleemann DO. Maternal melatonin implants improve twin Merino lamb survival. J Anim Sci 2021; 98:5935828. [PMID: 33091925 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skaa344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
High preweaning mortality rates cost the Australian sheep industry an estimated $540 million annually in lost production, with losses significantly greater in twin (≥30%) compared with singleton lambs (≥10%). Previous intensive studies demonstrated that supplementing pregnant ewes with melatonin reduces adverse effects of fetal growth restriction and perinatal hypoxia on the neonatal brain via increased umbilical blood flow, placental efficiency, and antioxidant actions. The current study examined the effects of supplementing ewes with melatonin on the survival of twin Merino lambs under extensive grazing conditions. Pregnant mixed age ewes were implanted with 1 (M1, n = 50) or 2 (M2, n = 53) slow-release melatonin implants (18 mg, Regulin) at gestational days 70 to 90. Control ewes received no supplementation (CTL, n = 54). Ewes were monitored twice daily throughout the lambing period. Lamb survival, weight, and rectal temperature were recorded on the day of birth. Lamb blood samples were taken the following day for serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) analysis. Lamb survival and weight were recorded again at marking (30.6 ± 0.6 d postpartum) and weaning (70.7 ± 0.6 d postpartum). Lamb survival was increased in both melatonin treatments to 3 d postpartum (M1 = 98.0%; M2 = 95.3%; CTL = 83.3%; each P < 0.01), and this improvement was maintained to weaning (M1 = 94.0%; M2 = 92.5%; CTL = 79.6%; each P < 0.01). Melatonin did not affect lamb birthweight, rectal temperature, or growth rate. However, the rates of parturition-related death (dystocia, stillbirth, and birth injury) were greater in CTL lambs than M1 (P = 0.009) and M2 (P = 0.035). This suggests that improved survival is primarily due to melatonin-induced neuroprotection, although further studies are required to clarify the underlying mechanisms. These data provide evidence that supplementing pregnant twin-bearing Merino ewes with melatonin may be a practical strategy to reduce neonatal mortality and improve weaning rates in extensively managed sheep flocks. Although the present data are promising, this study is limited by small sample size and requires further replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Flinn
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jessica R Gunn
- Minnipa Agricultural Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Minnipa, South Australia, Australia
| | - Karen L Kind
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia.,Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Alyce M Swinbourne
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - Alice C Weaver
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jennifer M Kelly
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, South Australia, Australia
| | - Simon K Walker
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, South Australia, Australia
| | - Kathryn L Gatford
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - William H E J van Wettere
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - David O Kleemann
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, South Australia, Australia
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Flinn T, McCarthy NL, Swinbourne AM, Gatford KL, Weaver AC, McGrice HA, Kelly JM, Walker SK, Kind KL, Kleemann DO, van Wettere WHEJ. Supplementing Merino ewes with melatonin during the last half of pregnancy improves tolerance of prolonged parturition and survival of second-born twin lambs. J Anim Sci 2021; 98:5986736. [PMID: 33205209 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skaa372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
High preweaning mortality rates continue to limit sheep production globally, constituting a major economic and welfare concern. Greater losses in twin lambs (≥30%) compared with singletons (≥10%) are attributed primarily to lower birth weight and increased risk of intrapartum hypoxia, leading to impairment of thermoregulation, neuromotor activity, and maternal bonding behavior. Previous intensive studies demonstrated that supplementing pregnant ewes with melatonin reduced the adverse effects of fetal growth restriction and perinatal hypoxia on the neonatal brain via increased umbilical blood flow, placental efficiency, and antioxidant actions. The current study examined the effects of supplementing pregnant ewes with melatonin on lamb survival, birth weight, and behavior under intensive conditions. From gestational day (gD) 80 until parturition, pregnant singleton and twin-bearing ewes were supplemented with melatonin via a 2-mg capsule fed daily (Mel-FED, n = 61) or 18 mg subcutaneous implant (Regulin), with one implant administered at gD80 and another at gD125 (Mel-IMP, n = 60). Control ewes received no supplementation (CTL, n = 60). Ewes and lambs were monitored via video throughout parturition. Postpartum measures were taken from lambs at 4 and 24 h (live weight [LW], rectal temperature, serum immunoglobulin G, and latency to stand and suck after birth) and LW at 72 h, 7 d, marking (49.7 ± 0.2 d), and weaning (124.2 ± 0.8 d). Chi-square analysis was used to compare lamb survival between treatment groups. There were no treatment effects on singleton lamb survival. Melatonin supplementation tended to increase the proportion of twin lambs surviving from birth to weaning (Mel-FED = 85.5%; Mel-IMP = 85.9%; CTL = 72.9%; each P < 0.1). Survival of first-born twins did not differ between treatment (each ~90%, P = 0.745) but within second-born twins, survival of Mel-FED was greater than CTL (81.6 vs. 57.1%, P = 0.023), and Mel-IMP (78.1%) tended to be greater than CTL (P = 0.068). Similarly, in second-born twins exposed to prolonged parturition (≥ 90 min), survival of lambs from Mel-FED ewes was greater than CTL (86.7% vs. 42.9%, P = 0.032), while Mel-IMP was intermediate (66.7%). These data suggest that the neuroprotective actions of melatonin may improve twin lamb survival by increasing tolerance of prolonged parturition and provide a sound basis for continued testing in extensively managed sheep flocks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Flinn
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Niki L McCarthy
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Alyce M Swinbourne
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Kathryn L Gatford
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Alice C Weaver
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, SA, Australia
| | - Hayley A McGrice
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Jennifer M Kelly
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, SA, Australia
| | - Simon K Walker
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, SA, Australia
| | - Karen L Kind
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia.,Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - David O Kleemann
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, SA, Australia
| | - William H E J van Wettere
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
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Flinn T, Kleemann DO, Swinbourne AM, Kelly JM, Weaver AC, Walker SK, Gatford KL, Kind KL, van Wettere WHEJ. Neonatal lamb mortality: major risk factors and the potential ameliorative role of melatonin. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2020; 11:107. [PMID: 33292527 PMCID: PMC7643391 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-020-00510-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
High incidences of pre-weaning mortality continue to limit global sheep production, constituting a major economic and welfare concern. Despite significant advances in genetics, nutrition, and management, the proportion of lamb deaths has remained stable at 15–20% over the past four decades. There is mounting evidence that melatonin can improve outcomes in compromised ovine pregnancies via enhanced uterine bloodflow and neonatal neuroprotection. This review provides an overview of the major risk factors and underlying mechanisms involved in perinatal lamb mortality and discusses the potential of melatonin treatment as a remedial strategy. Supplementing pregnant ewes with melatonin enhances uterine bloodflow and fetal oxygenation, and potentially birthweight and neonatal thermogenic capacity. Melatonin freely crosses the ovine placenta and blood-brain barrier and provides neuroprotection to the fetal lamb during periods of chronic and acute hypoxia throughout gestation, with improved behavioural outcomes in hypoxic neonates. The current literature provides strong evidence that maternal melatonin treatment improves outcomes for lambs which experience compromised in utero development or prolonged parturition, though to date this has not been investigated in livestock production systems. As such there is a clear basis for continued research into the effects of maternal melatonin supplementation during gestation on pre-weaning survival under extensive production conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Flinn
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia.
| | - David O Kleemann
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, SA, Australia
| | - Alyce M Swinbourne
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Jennifer M Kelly
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, SA, Australia
| | - Alice C Weaver
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, SA, Australia
| | - Simon K Walker
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, SA, Australia
| | - Kathryn L Gatford
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Karen L Kind
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - William H E J van Wettere
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
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13
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Pool KR, Rickard JP, de Graaf SP. Overcoming neuroendocrine and metabolic barriers to puberty: the role of melatonin in advancing puberty in ewe lambs. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2020; 72:106457. [PMID: 32361422 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2020.106457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Pubertal onset in the ewe is subject to a multitude of physiological and environmental constraints. As seasonal breeders, sheep rely on decreasing photoperiod to enter puberty and the subsequent breeding periods, hindering production. The initiation of puberty defines the reproductive yield of the ewe, and as such is a critical factor influencing production outcomes. Currently, the misconception that ovine puberty is reliant on age results in ewes being bred at over a year old, leading to a substantial unproductive period between birth and first conception. As such, transcending pubertal barriers to allow for earlier initiation of reproductive competency has significant commercial merit. The primary candidate to achieve this is the neurohormone melatonin, a key factor that naturally signals photoperiodic change that facilitates seasonal remodeling of the ovine hypothalamic-hypophyseal-gonadal axis. Despite being known to modulate reproductive seasonality in both the mature ewe and ram, the ability of melatonin to advance ewe puberty remains underutilized in industry. To optimize melatonin application and shape perceptions of breeding ewe lambs, a greater understanding of pubertal impediments and the natural role of melatonin is warranted. This review examines the physiological role and applications of melatonin to advance ewe puberty, and how this may act in conjunction with other physiological and metabolic cues.
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Affiliation(s)
- K R Pool
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.
| | - J P Rickard
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - S P de Graaf
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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The impact of prenatal environment on postnatal life and performance: Future perspectives for prevention and treatment. Theriogenology 2020; 150:15-19. [PMID: 31983467 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The present review aims to offer a non-comprehensive outline of the current state-of-the-art and future perspectives on management and therapeutic tools for intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and associated prenatal programming in both human and animal species. Animals are used as models for the study of phenomena related to IUGR, but also for research on prenatal therapies with the main objective of designing and developing preventive and therapeutic strategies. The research is currently paying attention on maternal-focused pharmacological treatments and nutritional strategies but also on fetal-focused treatments. Fetal-focused treatments, administered either directly at the fetus or by using infusion of umbilical cord, amniotic sac or placenta, which avoids the administration of substances at high doses to the mother for allowing their availability at the fetoplacental level. The results obtained in this area of research using large animals (rabbits, pigs and ruminants) have a dual interest, for translational biomedicine and for veterinary medicine and animal production.
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