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Andrews CJ, Yapura J, Potter MA, McGlade K, Thomas DG. Prolonged glucocorticoid administration affects oocyte morphology in cats (Felis catus) undergoing an ovarian stimulation protocol. Theriogenology 2023; 208:77-87. [PMID: 37302246 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
While captivity-related stress and the associated rise in baseline glucocorticoid (GC) concentrations have been linked to ovarian quiescence in some felid species, no study has examined the effects of elevated GC on oocyte quality. This study examined the effects of exogenous GC administration on the ovarian response and oocyte quality of domestic cats after an ovarian stimulation protocol. Entire mature female cats were divided into treatment (n = 6) and control (n = 6) groups. Cats in the GC treatment (GCT) group were given 1 mg kg-1 oral prednisolone daily from Day 0-45. All cats (n = 12) were given 0.088 mg kg-1 day-1 progesterone orally from Day 0-37, before treatment with 75 IU eCG im to induce follicular growth on Day 40, followed by 50 IU hCG im 80 h later to induce ovulation. Cats were ovariohysterectomised 30 h after the hCG treatment. Blood samples were collected on Days 0, 10, 30 and 40 (prior to eCG treatment), 80 h after eCG treatment, and on Day 45 for cortisol, glucose, prednisolone, oestradiol, and progesterone analysis. Cortisol concentrations did not differ between treatment groups throughout the study. Mean glucose concentrations were higher in the GCT cats (P = 0.004). Prednisolone was undetectable in all samples. Oestradiol and progesterone concentrations confirmed that the eCG treatment stimulated follicular activity and ovulation in all cats. Following ovariohysterectomy, the ovarian responses were graded (1 = excellent, 4 = poor) and oocytes retrieved from the oviducts. Each oocyte was given a total oocyte score (TOS: using an 9-point scale, 8 = best) based on four parameters: oocyte morphology, size, ooplasm uniformity and granularity, and zona pellucida (ZP) thickness and variation. Ovulation was confirmed in all cats, with a mean of 10.5 ± 1.1 ovulations per cat. Ovarian mass, ovarian response, number of ovulations, and oocyte recovery did not differ between groups. Oocyte diameter did not differ between the groups, but the ZP was thinner in the GCT group (3.1 ± 0.3 μm vs. 4.1 ± 0.3 μm, P = 0.03). The TOS was similar between treatment and control cats, but the ooplasm grade was lower (1.5 ± 0.1 vs. 1.9 ± 0.1, P = 0.01) and there was a tendency for ZP grade to be poorer (0.8 ± 0.1 vs. 1.2 ± 0.2; P = 0.08) in the treatment group. In conclusion, the GC treatment resulted in morphological changes to oocytes collected following ovarian stimulation. Whether these changes would affect fertility warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Andrews
- Animal Science Group, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Jimena Yapura
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Murray A Potter
- Wildlife and Ecology Group, School of Natural Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Kevanne McGlade
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - David G Thomas
- Animal Science Group, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
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Andrews CJ, Potter MA, Yapura J, Thomas DG. Accelerometry and infrared thermography show potential for assessing ovarian activity in domestic cats (Felis catus). Theriogenology 2021; 179:237-244. [PMID: 34896746 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Accurate and reliable monitoring of ovarian activity is challenging in many felids as current methods are either invasive or not amenable to real-time assessments. This 45-day study assessed whether accelerometry and infrared (IR) thermography can be used to address these limitations. Intact female domestic cats (n = 12) were given 0.088 mg kg-1 day-1 altrenogest (progestin) orally for 37 days to suppress follicular growth. On Day 40, cats were given 75 IU eCG im to induce follicular growth and 50 IU hCG im 80 h later to induce ovulation. Cats were ovariohysterectomised 30-31 h after the hCG treatment. Actical® accelerometers were fitted to the cats' collars and activity monitored continuously from the start of the altrenogest treatment until ovariohysterectomy. Infrared images of the perivulvar, perianal, and gluteal area were taken of each cat on Day 30 and daily from Days 36-45 of the study. Perivulvar temperature (PVT), PVT relative to gluteal temperatures (PVT-GT), and PVT relative to perianal temperature (PVT-PAT) were recorded for each image. Blood samples were collected on Days 0, 10, 30, and 40, immediately prior to the hCG treatment, and at the time of ovariohysterectomy. Serum oestradiol and progesterone concentrations indicated complete ovarian suppression by Day 30 and, together with morphological assessment of the ovaries, confirmed the induction of follicular growth and ovulation in all cats. Daily activity counts differed among cats (P < 0.001), so the daily activity counts of each cat were converted to a proportional change from the average daily activity count from Days 30-39 (defined as the 'proportional daily activity'). Proportional daily activity counts increased after the stimulation of follicular growth with eCG, with peak levels (2.03 ± 0.29-fold higher than pre-treatment levels; P = 0.006) occurring three days after the eCG treatment. The PVT-GT showed the greatest sensitivity to detect subtle changes in body temperature, increasing from early to late follicular growth (1.96 ± 0.33 °C increase from Day 41-43; P < 0.001) and decreasing after hCG-induced ovulation (1.24 ± 0.41 °C decrease from Day 43-45; P = 0.01). In conclusion, both accelerometry and IR thermography show potential as non-invasive, real-time methods for assessing ovarian activity in cats, but further research is required to determine if these methods could be used to monitor natural/non-stimulated oestrous cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Andrews
- Centre for Feline Nutrition, School of Agriculture and Environment, College of Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Murray A Potter
- Zoology and Ecology Group, School of Natural Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Jimena Yapura
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - David G Thomas
- Centre for Feline Nutrition, School of Agriculture and Environment, College of Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
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Tu X, You B, Jing M, Lin C, Zhang R. Progestin-Primed Ovarian Stimulation Versus Mild Stimulation Protocol in Advanced Age Women With Diminished Ovarian Reserve Undergoing Their First In Vitro Fertilization Cycle: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:801026. [PMID: 35140685 PMCID: PMC8818948 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.801026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess and compare the feasibility of progestin-primed ovarian stimulation (PPOS) protocol with mild stimulation protocol for advanced age women with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) undergoing their first in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycle. METHODS Patients aged ≥35 years and DOR undergoing their first IVF/ICSI cycle were enrolled in this retrospective cohort study: 139 and 600 patients underwent the PPOS and mild stimulation protocols, respectively. The primary outcomes were cumulative clinical pregnancy rate (CCPR) and cumulative live birth rate (CLBR). The secondary outcomes were the number of oocytes retrieved and top-quality embryos. RESULTS There was nearly no significant difference of baseline characteristics between the two groups. Although a greater amount of total gonadotropin (1906.61 ± 631.04 IU vs. 997.72 ± 705.73 IU, P<0.001) and longer duration of stimulation (9 (10-7) vs. 6 (8-4), P<0.001) were observed in the PPOS group, the number of retrieved oocytes (3 (6-2) vs. 2 (4-1), P<0.001) and top-quality embryos (1 (2-0) vs. 1 (2-0), P=0.038) was greater in the PPOS group than the mild stimulation group. Meanwhile, the incidence of premature luteinizing hormone (LH) surge rate was significantly lower in the PPOS group (0.7% vs.8.3%, P=0.001) than the mild stimulation group. However, there was no significant difference in conservative CCPR, conservative CLBR, optimistic CCPR, and optimistic CLBR between the two groups (all P>0.05). A multivariate logistic regression model showed significant positive effects of the number of retrieved oocytes and number of top-quality embryos on conservative CCPR (OR=1.236, 95%CI: 1.048-1.456, P=0.012, OR=2.313, 95%CI: 1.676-3.194, P<0.001) and conservative CLBR (OR=1.250, 95%CI: 1.036-1.508, P=0.020, OR=2.634, 95%CI: 1.799-3.857, P<0.001) respectively, while significant negative effects of age were identified for conservative CCPR (OR=0.805, 95%CI: 0.739-0.877, P<0.001) and conservative CLBR (OR=0.797, 95%CI: 0.723-0.879, P<0.001). CONCLUSION The PPOS protocol is an effective alternative to the mild stimulation protocol for advanced age patients with DOR, as it provides comparable reproductive outcomes and better control of premature LH surge. Further, more oocytes and top-quality embryos were obtained in the PPOS group, which had a positive association with conservative CCPR and CLBR.
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Vansandt LM, Bateman HL, Miller AG, Herrick JR, Moresco A, González R, Iwaniuk ME, Swanson WF. Cross-species efficacy of a chemically-defined, soy lecithin-based cryomedium for semen banking in imperiled wild felids. Theriogenology 2020; 159:108-115. [PMID: 33130295 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.10.021] [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: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Felid semen has historically been frozen using an egg yolk-based cryopreservation medium. However, the use of egg introduces several potential concerns, such as variability in composition, microbial contamination, and regulatory issues. In the present study, our aim was to compare a chemically-defined, soy-based medium (SOY) to a commercial egg yolk-based medium (TEY) for the cryopreservation of sperm in four imperiled small cat species. Semen was collected from adult male cats (n = 6 black-footed cats; n = 6 sand cats; n = 4 fishing cats; and n = 7 Pallas' cats) via electroejaculation, split into two aliquots, and cryopreserved in SOY or TEY. Frozen-thawed samples were evaluated for sperm motility and rate of progressive motility (up to 24 h post-thaw) and acrosome status (0 and 6 h). No difference in post-thaw traits were observed between treatments in all four species. Heterologous IVF using oocytes collected laparoscopically from domestic cats demonstrated no difference among freezing treatments in percentage of mature oocytes that cleaved or the mean number of blastomeres at 48 h post-insemination. More spermatozoa frozen with SOY were bound to the zona pellucida in the sand cat (P = 0.018), but no treatment effect was observed in the other three species. These findings collectively demonstrate that SOY may be a preferable alternative to TEY for sperm cryopreservation in these four wild felid species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey Marie Vansandt
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW), Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | - Helen L Bateman
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW), Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Amy G Miller
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW), Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Jason R Herrick
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Anneke Moresco
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW), Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Raquel González
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW), Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - M E Iwaniuk
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - William F Swanson
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW), Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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Herrick JR. Assisted reproductive technologies for endangered species conservation: developing sophisticated protocols with limited access to animals with unique reproductive mechanisms. Biol Reprod 2020; 100:1158-1170. [PMID: 30770538 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) have been proposed as a means of overcoming the significant challenges of managing small, isolated populations of endangered species in zoos. However, efficient protocols for ARTs do not exist for most endangered species. This review will focus on research efforts to characterize unique reproductive mechanisms and develop species-specific ARTs. Central to these studies are assays to measure steroid metabolites in urine or feces and/or training programs to allow unrestrained blood collections and ultrasound evaluations. The resulting information about estrous cycle dynamics, combined with studies of semen collection and processing, provides the foundation for the development of artificial insemination (AI). In vitro fertilization and embryo transfer are also discussed in relation to the advantages these techniques could provide relative to AI, as well as the significant challenges involved with technologies that require oocytes and embryos. Finally, an argument is made for additional research of nontraditional model species (e.g., domestic cats and dogs) and the development of novel models representing unique taxa. Whether these species are studied by zoo-based researchers with the expressed intent of developing ARTs for conservation or academic scientists interested in basic biology, the resulting information will provide a unique, evolutionary perspective on reproduction that could have wide-reaching benefits. The more information we have available, the better our chances will be of developing effective ARTs and making a difference in conservation efforts for endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason R Herrick
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, 3701 S. 10th St., Omaha, NE 68107, USA
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Buckley RM, Grahn RA, Gandolfi B, Herrick JR, Kittleson MD, Bateman HL, Newsom J, Swanson WF, Prieur DJ, Lyons LA. Assisted reproduction mediated resurrection of a feline model for Chediak-Higashi syndrome caused by a large duplication in LYST. Sci Rep 2020; 10:64. [PMID: 31919397 PMCID: PMC6952417 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-56896-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Chediak-Higashi Syndrome (CHS) is a well-characterized, autosomal recessively inherited lysosomal disease caused by mutations in lysosomal trafficking regulator (LYST). The feline model for CHS was originally maintained for ~20 years. However, the colonies were disbanded and the CHS cat model was lost to the research community before the causative mutation was identified. To resurrect the cat model, semen was collected and cryopreserved from a lone, fertile, CHS carrier male. Using cryopreserved semen, laparoscopic oviductal artificial insemination was performed on three queens, two queens produced 11 viable kittens. To identify the causative mutation, a fibroblast cell line, derived from an affected cat from the original colony, was whole genome sequenced. Visual inspection of the sequence data identified a candidate causal variant as a ~20 kb tandem duplication within LYST, spanning exons 30 through to 38 (NM_001290242.1:c.8347-2422_9548 + 1749dup). PCR genotyping of the produced offspring demonstrated three individuals inherited the mutant allele from the CHS carrier male. This study demonstrated the successful use of cryopreservation and assisted reproduction to maintain and resurrect biomedical models and has defined the variant causing Chediak-Higashi syndrome in the domestic cat.
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Affiliation(s)
- R M Buckley
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - R A Grahn
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, USA
- Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, University of California - Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - B Gandolfi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - J R Herrick
- Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Omaha, Nebraska, 68107, USA
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife, Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45220, USA
| | - M D Kittleson
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - H L Bateman
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife, Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45220, USA
| | - J Newsom
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife, Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45220, USA
| | - W F Swanson
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife, Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45220, USA
| | - D J Prieur
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164-7040, USA
| | - L A Lyons
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.
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Martínez F, Rodriguez-Purata J, Beatriz Rodríguez D, Clua E, Rodriguez I, Coroleu B. Desogestrel versus antagonist injections for LH suppression in oocyte donation cycles: a crossover study. Gynecol Endocrinol 2019; 35:878-883. [PMID: 31062995 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2019.1604661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
To study whether ovarian response to corifollitropin among oocyte donors (OD) is different when oral desogestrel (DSG) is used to block the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge when compared to GnRH-antagonist use. This is a retrospective, cohort study at a private, university-based, IVF center including 35 OD. Patients underwent two stimulation cycles under corifollitropin alfa (CFT), one under an antagonist and another under DSG, between February 2015 and May 2017. In antagonist cycles, daily ganirelix was administered since a leading follicle reached 14 mm. In the DSG cycles, daily oral DSG was prescribed. The main outcome measure was oocytes retrieved. Compared to antagonist cycles, cycles under DSG received fewer injections (10.3 ± 2.8 vs. 5.0 ± 2.1, p < .001), nominally lower total supplementary gonadotropin dose (497.4 ± 338.9I U vs. 442.9 ± 332.8 IU, p=.45) with a lower total cost of medication (1018.6 ± 191.0€ vs. 813.8 ± 145.9€, p<.001). There were no differences in the total number of retrieved oocytes between groups (17.4 ± 7.5 vs. 18.6 ± 8.9, p=.34). In the corresponding oocyte recipients, clinical pregnancy rate was similar between groups: 52.0% vs. 58.6%, respectively (p=.78). ODs' stimulation's response under DSG is similar when compared to (17.4 ± 7.5 vs. 18.6 ± 8.9, p=.34) but associated with less injections and lower medication costs. The main advantage of this strategy is its simplicity, an aspect of utmost importance in the management of ODs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisca Martínez
- Reproductive Medicine Service, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Elisabet Clua
- Reproductive Medicine Service, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ignacio Rodriguez
- Reproductive Medicine Service, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Barcelona, Spain
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Thuwanut P, Brown JL, Comizzoli P, Crosier AE. Responsiveness of the cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) ovary to exogenous gonadotropins after preemptive oral progestin treatment. Theriogenology 2019; 138:39-46. [PMID: 31284220 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Control of ovarian function in cheetahs is sub-optimal, which currently limits the integration of assisted reproductive techniques into the genetic management of that endangered species. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of preemptive progestin treatment on the quality of ovarian responses after exogenous gonadotropin stimulation in cheetahs. Adult females received either 1) 200 IU equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) followed with 3,000 IU porcine luteinizing hormone (pLH) (intramuscular route) (n = 5; control group) or 2) similar eCG/pLH administration preceded by a 7-day treatment with oral progestin (0.1 mg/kg altrenogest; ALT group; n = 7). At 42 h post-pLH administration, a series of metrics was assessed via laparoscopy (number of follicles ≥ 2 mm, number of corpora lutea, oviduct and uterine cornua diameter and overall vascularization). Concentrations of fecal estradiol, progesterone and glucocorticoid metabolites (FEM, FPM, and FGM, respectively) were measured by enzyme immunoassay for 3 wk before ALT treatment (Period 1), 7 d during ovarian suppression period (Period 2), throughout eCG/LH treatment and laparoscopy (Period 3), and 6 wk following laparoscopy (Period 4). Overall, nine out of 12 cheetahs (4/5 in control and 5/7 ALT group) had freshly-formed corpora lutea at the time of laparoscopy. Mean follicle and corpora lutea numbers in the control versus ALT group were not different (P > 0.05). Overall measurements and vascularization scores also did not differ (P > 0.05) among groups. FEM average concentrations increased (P ≤ 0.05) in response to eCG for the ALT-treated females between Periods 2 and 3 and were sustained during Period 4. However, FEM average concentrations did not vary (P > 0.05) for control females throughout Periods 1-4. Post-ovulatory FPM average concentrations (Period 4) did not differ (P > 0.05) between the ALT-treated females and controls. FPM average concentration from both groups increased in Period 4 compared to Periods 1-3 (P ≤ 0.05). Females receiving the ALT treatment also had lower (P ≤ 0.05) FGM metabolite average concentrations than control females during ovarian suppression (suggesting adrenal suppression). Collective results suggest that ovarian response to gonadotropin treatment in the cheetah was improved following oral progestin administration due to the normative increase in estradiol following stimulation for these females compared with control. This treatment should lead to more effective timed assisted reproduction procedures for this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweena Thuwanut
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, Washington DC, 20008, USA; Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Janine L Brown
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, Washington DC, 20008, USA
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, Washington DC, 20008, USA
| | - Adrienne E Crosier
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, Washington DC, 20008, USA.
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Swanson WF. Practical application of laparoscopic oviductal artificial insemination for the propagation of domestic cats and wild felids. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 31:27-39. [PMID: 32188540 DOI: 10.1071/rd18350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
AI was first reported in cats almost 50 years ago but, unlike AI in other domesticated animals (e.g. dogs, cattle, horses), has not been widely used for routine propagation by veterinarians or breeders. Anatomical and physiological challenges with cats have hindered the efficiency of AI using standardised transcervical approaches applied to other species. Development of laparoscopic oviductal AI (LO-AI) has helped overcome some of these barriers and, during the past 7 years, produced high pregnancy percentages (>70%) in domestic cats using both fresh collected and frozen-thawed semen and resulted in the birth of full-term offspring in three cat hereditary disease models and six wild cat species (ocelot, Pallas's cat, fishing cat, sand cat, tiger, clouded leopard). The standard approach involves exogenous gonadotrophin treatment (typically equine chorionic gonadotrophin followed by porcine LH) to induce ovarian follicular growth and ovulation, with laparoscopic visualisation of the oviductal ostium for direct intraluminal insemination with low numbers of spermatozoa. Similar ovarian synchronisation and insemination approaches have been used with wild felids, but frequently must be refined on a species-by-species basis. From a practical perspective, LO-AI in domestic cats now has adequate efficiency for applied use as a reproductive service in veterinary practices that possess basic laparoscopy expertise.
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Affiliation(s)
- William F Swanson
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA. Email
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Andrews CJ, Thomas DG, Yapura J, Potter MA. Reproductive biology of the 38 extant felid species: a review. Mamm Rev 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/mam.12145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J. Andrews
- Animal Science Group; School of Agriculture and Environment; Massey University; Private Bag 11-222 Palmerston North 4442 New Zealand
| | - David G. Thomas
- Animal Science Group; School of Agriculture and Environment; Massey University; Private Bag 11-222 Palmerston North 4442 New Zealand
| | - Jimena Yapura
- School of Veterinary Science; Massey University; Private Bag 11-222 Palmerston North 4442 New Zealand
| | - Murray A. Potter
- Wildlife and Ecology Group; School of Agriculture and Environment; Massey University; Private Bag 11-222 Palmerston North 4442 New Zealand
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The expression of kisspeptin and its receptor in the domestic cat ovary and uterus in different stages of the ovarian cycle. Theriogenology 2018; 117:40-48. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Revised: 05/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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12
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Crosier AE, Comizzoli P, Koester DC, Wildt DE. Circumventing the natural, frequent oestrogen waves of the female cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) using oral progestin (Altrenogest). Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 29:1486-1498. [PMID: 27483379 DOI: 10.1071/rd16007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cheetah are induced ovulators, experiencing short, variable oestrogen waves year-round. Exogenous gonadotrophin administration induces ovulation, but success is variable and often improves if ovaries are quiescent. After affirming the presence of short-term oestrogenic waves, we examined the effect of the timing of administration of exogenous equine and human chorionic gonadotrophins (eCG-hCG) within the oestrogen concentration pattern on subsequent follicle development and oocyte and corpus luteum quality. We also investigated ovarian suppression using an oral progestin (Altrenogest, 7 days) and assessed whether Altrenogest moderated adrenal activity by reducing glucocorticoid metabolites. All cheetahs exhibited short (every ~7-10 days), sporadic, year-round increases in faecal oestradiol punctuated by unpredictable periods (4-10 weeks) of baseline oestradiol (anoestrous). Gonadotrophin (eCG-hCG) efficacy was not affected by oestradiol 'wave' pattern if administered ≥3 days after an oestrogen peak. Such cheetahs produced normative faecal progestagen patterns and higher numbers (P<0.06) of mature oocytes than females given gonadotrophins ≤2 days after an oestradiol peak. Altrenogest supplementation expanded the interval between oestradiol peaks to 12.9 days compared with 7.3 days without progestin pretreatment. Altrenogest-fed females excreted less (P<0.05) glucocorticoid metabolites than non-supplemented counterparts. Results show that Altrenogest is effective for suppressing follicular activity, may contribute to reduced glucocorticoid production and may result in more effective ovulation induction via gonadotrophin therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrienne E Crosier
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, 3001 Connecticut Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20008, USA
| | - Diana C Koester
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - David E Wildt
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
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Thongphakdee A, Tipkantha W, Punkong C, Chatdarong K. Monitoring and controlling ovarian activity in wild felids. Theriogenology 2018; 109:14-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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14
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Leonel EC, Vilela JM, Paiva RE, Jivago JL, Amaral RS, Lucci CM. Restoration of fresh cat ovarian tissue function by autografting to subcutaneous tissue: A pilot study. Theriogenology 2018; 105:97-106. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2017] [Revised: 09/04/2017] [Accepted: 09/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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15
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Massin N. New stimulation regimens: endogenous and exogenous progesterone use to block the LH surge during ovarian stimulation for IVF. Hum Reprod Update 2017; 23:211-220. [PMID: 28062551 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmw047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 12/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The advent of embryo and oocyte vitrification today gives reproductive specialists an opportunity to consider new strategies for improving the practice and results of IVF attempts. As the freezing of entire cohorts does not compromise, and may even improve, the results of IVF attempts, it is possible to break away from the standard sequence of stimulation-retrieval-transfer. The constraints associated with ovarian stimulation in relation to the potential harmful effects of the hormonal environment on endometrial receptivity can be avoided. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review will look at the new stimulation protocols where progesterone is used to block the LH surge. Thanks to 'freeze all' strategies, the increase in progesterone could actually be no longer a cause for concern. There are two ways of using progesterone, whether it be endogenous, as in luteal phase stimulation, or exogenous, as in the use of progesterone in the follicular phase i.e. progestin primed ovarian stimulation. SEARCH METHODS A literature search was carried out (until September 2016) on MEDLINE. The following text words were utilized to generate the list of citations: progestin primed ovarian stimulation, luteal phase stimulation, luteal stimulation, duostim, double stimulation, random start. Articles and their references were then examined in order to identify other potential studies. All of the articles are reported in this review. OUTCOMES The use of progesterone during ovarian stimulation is effective in blocking the LH surge, whether endogenous or exogenous, and it does not affect the number of oocytes collected or the quality of the embryos obtained. Its main constraint is that it requires total freezing and delayed transfer. A variety of stimulation protocols can be derived from these two methods, and their implications are discussed, from fertility preservation to ovarian response profiles to organization for the patients and clincs. These new regimens enable more flexibility and are of emerging interest in daily practice. However, their medical and economic significance remains to be demonstrated. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The use of luteal phase or follicular phase protocols with progestins could rapidly develop in the context of oocyte donation and fertility preservation not related to oncology. Their place could develop even more in the general population of patients in IVF programs. The strategy of total freezing continues to develop, thanks to technical improvements, in particular vitrification and PGS on blastocysts, and thanks to studies showing improvements in embryo implantation when the transfer take place far removed from the hormonal changes caused by ovarian stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Massin
- Centre d'Assistance Médicale à la Procréation, Centre Hospitalier Intercommual, Université Paris 12, 40 Avenue de Verdun, 94000Créteil, France
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Xu B, Feng HL. Ovulation, fertilization and preimplantation embryonic development in raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides). Anim Reprod Sci 2016; 176:78-84. [PMID: 27939185 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2016.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2016] [Revised: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
A study involving 32 sexual mature females was conducted to characterize ovulation, fertilization and early embryonic development in vivo in raccoon dogs. Oocytes and embryos were collected from the oviducts and uteri, evaluated by stereomicroscopy. Ovulation occurred 25-32h after a female first accepted mounting, regardless of copulation, when the females were paired with a male in the same cage. Ovulated oocytes were at the primary stage. The number of ovulated eggs in females with or without mating was 9.96±2.65 and 9.00±1.92, respectively. Embryos at 2-4 cell, 8-16 cell, morula, blastocyst, and hatched blastocyst stage were observed at 29-73, 48-100, 98-126, 169-198 and 217-268h after first mating, respectively. Embryos were located in the oviduct prior to 4-cell stage and moved into the uterus after 16-cell stage. Embryos at different stages were often obtained from the same female. During the zygote underwent a series of cleavage divisions, the diameter of the embryo cell mass continuously increased through the 2-cell and 4-cell stage, then started to decrease and was the minimum size at the morula stage. At the blastocyst stage, embryos increased in volume, and finally developed into a hatching blastocyst with a thinner zona pellucida. This is the first full report of preimplantation embryonic development in the raccoon dog, which will facilitate the application of advanced assisted reproductive technology in canine species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baozeng Xu
- Institute of Special Animal and Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130112, PR China; State Key Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Special Economic Animal and Plant Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130112, PR China
| | - Huai L Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York Hospital Queens, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, Flushing, New York 11355, USA.
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Identifying diagnostic endocrine markers and changes in endometrial gene expressions during pyometra in cats. Reprod Biol 2016; 16:174-80. [PMID: 27288342 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2015.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Revised: 12/04/2015] [Accepted: 12/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Pyometra is a significant reproductive problem in cats. The aims of this study were to evaluate (i) the immunological profile of queens by studying plasma concentrations of metabolites of prostacyclin I2 (6-keto-PGF1α), leukotriene B4 (LTB4) and leukotriene C4 (LTC4); and (ii) the gene transcription profiles of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) 2 and 4 (TLR2/4), PGE2-synthase (PGES), PGF2α-synthase (PGFS) and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2) in the feline endometrium throughout the estrous cycle, after medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) treatment and during pyometra. The concentration of plasma 6-keto-PGF1α in pyometra was increased in comparison to other groups studied (p<0.01). Endometrial mRNA coding for TLR2 was up-regulated in cats suffering from pyometra compared to other groups (p<0.001). Expression of mRNA for TLR4 was up-regulated in endometria originating from MPA-treated cats, pyometra and late diestrus cats, compared with tissues from cats during estrus and anestrus (p<0.05). As expected, endometrial mRNA for PTGS2 was up-regulated only in pyometra, compared with other groups (p<0.001). Similarly, endometrial mRNA for PGFS was up-regulated in pyometra, compared with endometria from anestrus, late diestrus and from MPA-treated cats (p<0.05), or from cats during estrus (p<0.01). Overall, these results indicate that plasma concentrations of LTB4 and LTC4 are not useful diagnostic markers since they were not increased in queens with pyometra, in contrast to 6-keto-PGF1α. In addition, treatment with MPA evoked neither endocrine nor molecular changes in endometria of cats.
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Barnes SA, Andrew Teare J, Staaden S, Metrione L, Penfold LM. Characterization and manipulation of reproductive cycles in the jaguar (Panthera onca). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2016; 225:95-103. [PMID: 26399935 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2015.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2015] [Revised: 09/10/2015] [Accepted: 09/17/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Basic reproductive information in female jaguars (Panthera onca) is lacking, thus longitudinal fecal samples from seven females were analyzed via enzyme immunoassay to measure estradiol and progestin metabolites throughout the year. Mean estrus length of 194 estrus periods measured hormonally was 6.5±0.3d, mean peak fecal estradiol concentration was 138.7±5.7ng/g; and in one female, estrus resumption occurred approximately 15d post-partum. Ovulation, as indicted by sustained elevated progestin concentrations (>20d), was successfully induced one time by treatment with exogenous hormones in one female and by physical vaginal stimulation in two females a combined total of three times. Elevated fecal progestin was observed outside exogenous stimulation on five occasions, suggesting ovulation occurred spontaneously. Mean length of physically induced and spontaneous pseudopregnancies was 24.7±4.2d and 29.6±2.6d, respectively, and mean length of pregnancy (n=2) was 98.0±0.0d. Mean peak progestin concentration for spontaneous and induced pseudopregnancies, and pregnancy was 7.4±1.4μg/g, 6.4±1.2μg/g, and 13.7±1.0μg/g, respectively. This data suggests jaguars are polyestrous and generally induced ovulators, with a moderate incidence of spontaneous ovulation. Additionally, two protocols to successfully stimulate ovarian activity in jaguars are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena A Barnes
- White Oak Conservation Center, 581705 White Oak Road, Yulee, FL 32097, United States
| | - J Andrew Teare
- International Species Information System, Eagan, MN 55121, United States
| | - Sheryl Staaden
- Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218, United States
| | - Lara Metrione
- South-East Zoo Alliance for Reproduction & Conservation, 581705 White Oak Road, Yulee, FL 32097, United States
| | - Linda M Penfold
- South-East Zoo Alliance for Reproduction & Conservation, 581705 White Oak Road, Yulee, FL 32097, United States.
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Jursza-Piotrowska E, Socha P, Skarzynski DJ, Siemieniuch MJ. Prostaglandin release by cultured endometrial tissues after challenge with lipopolysaccharide and tumor necrosis factor α, in relation to the estrous cycle, treatment with medroxyprogesterone acetate, and pyometra. Theriogenology 2015; 85:1177-85. [PMID: 26777562 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.11.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Revised: 11/25/2015] [Accepted: 11/30/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
To better understand the pathogenesis of endometrial changes in cats associated with administration of progestagen contraceptives and with pyometra, we examined local variability of the prostaglandin synthesis system after challenge with either tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in organ cultures of endometrial tissues derived from cyclic cats, cats treated with medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), or cats with pyometra, as well as in cultured endometrial epithelial and stromal cells. In addition, spontaneous prostaglandin secretion was compared in endometria from different experimental groups. Data gathered in the present study show that the concentration of PGE2 in supernatants was increased only in endometrial organ cultures from cats with pyometra (P < 0.001) compared with other groups. This was also true for PGF2α in pyometra, compared with cats treated either short- or long-term with MPA and cats during late diestrus (P < 0.001), anestrus (P < 0.01), and estrus and middiestrus (P < 0.05). Treatment with LPS and TNF-α combined stimulated PGE2 secretion in all groups compared with the control (P < 0.001 for endometria of cats during anestrus or middiestrus, cats treated short-term with MPA, and those with pyometra; P < 0.01 for endometria of cats treated long-term with MPA; and P < 0.05 for the endometria of cats during estrus and late diestrus). The combined treatment with LPS and TNF-α increased PGF2α secretion in the endometria of cats treated short-term with MPA (P < 0.001), during anestrus and pyometra (P < 0.01 for both), and estrus and middiestrus (P < 0.05 for both), compared with the control. Spontaneous secretion of prostaglandins was several times greater in the endometria of queens with pyometra, compared with other groups, which may further regulate the local inflammatory response. Data gathered from endometrial cell culture and endometrial organ culture lead to the conclusion that disturbances in prostaglandin release contribute to pyometra in cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewelina Jursza-Piotrowska
- Department of Reproductive Immunology and Pathology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Piotr Socha
- Department of Animal Reproduction With Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Dariusz Jan Skarzynski
- Department of Reproductive Immunology and Pathology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Marta Jolanta Siemieniuch
- Department of Reproductive Immunology and Pathology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland.
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Stewart RA, Crosier AE, Pelican KM, Pukazhenthi BS, Sitzmann BD, Porter TE, Wildt DE, Ottinger MA, Howard J. Progestin priming before gonadotrophin stimulation and AI improves embryo development and normalises luteal function in the cat. Reprod Fertil Dev 2015; 27:360-71. [PMID: 24300570 DOI: 10.1071/rd13274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2013] [Accepted: 10/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Exogenous gonadotrophins administered before AI can adversely alter endocrine dynamics and inhibit embryo development in felids. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that priming the domestic cat ovary with progestin mitigates the negative influence of gonadotrophin therapy by normalising early embryogenesis and luteal function. Queens were given either: (1) progestin pretreatment plus chorionic gonadotrophins (n=8; primed); or (2) gonadotrophins only (n=8; unprimed). Ovulatory response was assessed laparoscopically, and cats with fresh corpora lutea (CL) were inseminated in utero. Ovariohysterectomy was performed 3 days later to recover intra-oviductal embryos for in vitro culture; one ovary was prepared for histology, and CL from the remaining ovary were excised and assessed for progesterone content and targeted gene expression. Of the six primed and seven unprimed queens inseminated, embryo(s) were recovered from five individuals per group. Embryos from progestin-primed donors more closely simulated normal stage in vivo development (P<0.05). No 2- or 4-cell embryos from either group developed beyond 16-cells in vitro; however, 50% of unprimed and 66.7% of primed (P>0.05) 5-16-cell embryos progressed to morulae or blastocysts by Day 4 of culture. Although histological characteristics were unaffected by progestin priming (P>0.05), luteal progesterone was unusually high (P<0.05) in unprimed compared with primed cats (72.4±5.8 vs. 52.2±5.5 ng mg(-1), respectively). Two genes associated with progesterone biosynthesis (luteinising hormone receptor and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase) were upregulated in unprimed versus primed individuals (P=0.05 and P<0.05, respectively), indicating potential mechanistic pathways for the protective influence of pre-emptive progestin treatment. Building on earlier findings that progestin priming prevents spontaneous ovulation, increases ovarian sensitivity to gonadotrophins and ensures a normative endocrine environment, the present study demonstrates that pretreatment with this steroid also benefits embryo development and normalisation of early luteal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary A Stewart
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Adrienne E Crosier
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Katharine M Pelican
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Budhan S Pukazhenthi
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Brandon D Sitzmann
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Tom E Porter
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - David E Wildt
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Mary Ann Ottinger
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - JoGayle Howard
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
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Amelkina O, Braun BC, Dehnhard M, Jewgenow K. The corpus luteum of the domestic cat: Histologic classification and intraluteal hormone profile. Theriogenology 2015; 83:711-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2014] [Revised: 10/30/2014] [Accepted: 11/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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