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Liu K, Xu X, Song Y, Xiao L, Wen J, Ding H, Zhao S, Qiao D, Zhang B, Niu A, Bai J, Liu Y. Effect of altrenogest treatment before weaning on reproductive performance and production efficiency in primiparous and multiparous sows. Porcine Health Manag 2024; 10:25. [PMID: 38971810 PMCID: PMC11227700 DOI: 10.1186/s40813-024-00377-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most sows will experience negative energy balance during lactation resulting in impaired follicular development. This study aimed to treat 28-day lactating sows with altrenogest (ALT) to suppress follicle enlargement during lactation, and to assess the estrus and reproductive performance post-weaning. METHODS In this study, we conducted two trials. In trial 1, we monitored the follicular development of lactating sows including 10 primiparous sows and 10 multiparous sows during the whole lactation to confirm the ALT administration time. In trial 2, a total of 42 primiparous and 111 multiparous sows were allocated to three treatments: Ctrl (control group, n = 51): no treatment; TAI (timed artificial insemination group, n = 51): sows were injected with equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) after weaning 24 h and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) when they expressed estrus; and AT-TAI (ALT treatment-timed artificial insemination group, n = 51): base on the process of TAI group, the sows were fed with 20 mg ALT per day before weaning 10 days. All sows were artificially inseminated twice at 12 h and 36 h after estrus. The follicle size changes and serum hormone levels were explored in this process. RESULTS Although the follicle size of multiparous sows was larger than primiparous sows during the whole lactation (P < 0.05), similar change trends of follicle size were observed in primiparous and multiparous sows. Meanwhile, the FSH, LH and E2 levels of multiparous sows were higher than primiparous sows. The ALT treatment significantly inhibits the increase in follicle size (P < 0.05) and reduces the serum levels of FSH, LH and E2 (P > 0.05). Additionally, ALT treatment increases estrus concentration and the preovulatory follicle size (P < 0.05), meanwhile, it delays the weaning-to-estrus interval (WEI, P < 0.001). However, the estrus rate, pregnancy rate, total pigs born and born alive did not differ between treatments (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS There were significant differences in the size of follicles in the lactation between primiparous and multiparous sows. ALT treatment during the last ten days of lactation concentrated estrus expression leading to higher work efficiency of breeder in batch production, however, with no improvement in reproductive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexiong Liu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, 100097, China
| | - Xiaoling Xu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, 100097, China
| | - Yuqing Song
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, 100097, China
| | - Linli Xiao
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, 100097, China
| | - Junhui Wen
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, 100097, China
| | - Haiquan Ding
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, 100097, China
| | - Shuxin Zhao
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, 100097, China
| | - Dongliang Qiao
- Development Center of Science and Technology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, 100176, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Beijing Zhongyu Pig Breeding Co., Ltd, Beijing, 100194, China
| | - Aihua Niu
- Beijing Zhongyu Pig Breeding Co., Ltd, Beijing, 100194, China
| | - Jiahua Bai
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, 100097, China.
| | - Yan Liu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, 100097, China.
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2
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Knox RV. Follicle development in pigs: State of the art. Mol Reprod Dev 2023; 90:480-490. [PMID: 35642618 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the factors and pathways involved with recruitment, atresia, and selection of follicles in the pig, may provide insight into approaches to limit fertility failures. Antral follicles depend upon FSH to the 2-3 mm stage, become codependent upon LH at 4-5 mm, and rely on LH when >5 mm. Within the follicle, gonadotropin binding, steroids, growth factors, and inhibin interact to determine the fate of the follicle. Continuous recruitment appears likely for follicles, and once >1 mm, they may have a limited period for survival, before selection or atresia. If true, then the number of healthy follicles that can respond to a hormone signal for selection, could vary by size and development stage. Which follicles are selected may depend upon their age, numbers of capillaries, granulosa and thecal cells, and FSH and LH receptors. This might also suggest that factors such as management, nutrition, and stress in prior weeks, could affect different cohorts of follicles to determine which of those from the ovarian population will be selected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert V Knox
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana, Champaign-Urbana, Illinois, USA
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Costermans NGJ, Teerds KJ, Kemp B, Keijer J, Soede NM. Physiological and metabolic aspects of follicular developmental competence as affected by lactational body condition loss. Mol Reprod Dev 2023; 90:491-502. [PMID: 35775400 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Metabolic demands of modern hybrid sows have increased over the years, which increases the chance that sows enter a substantial negative energy balance (NEB) during lactation. This NEB can negatively impact reproductive outcome, which is especially evident in primiparous sows causing a reduced second parity reproductive performance. The negative effects of the lactational NEB on reproductive performance can be partly explained by the influence of the premating metabolic state, during and after lactation, on the development of follicles from which oocytes will give rise to the next litter. In addition, the degree and type of body tissue mobilization during lactation that is, adipose tissue or lean mass, highly influences follicular development. Research investigating relations between the premating metabolic state and follicular and oocyte competence in modern hybrid sows, which experience higher metabolic demands during lactation, is limited. In this review we summarize current knowledge of physiological relations between the metabolic state of modern hybrid sows and follicular developmental competence. In addition, we discuss potential implications of these relations for current sow management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasja G J Costermans
- Human and Animal Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Adaptation Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Katja J Teerds
- Human and Animal Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Bas Kemp
- Adaptation Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap Keijer
- Human and Animal Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Nicoline M Soede
- Adaptation Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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4
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Vela A, Suárez-Usbeck A, Lafoz L, Mitjana O, Tejedor MT, Martín S, López M, Falceto MV. Determination of puberty in gilts: contrast of diagnostic methods. Porcine Health Manag 2022; 8:28. [PMID: 35710454 PMCID: PMC9204994 DOI: 10.1186/s40813-022-00271-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early onset of a gilt´s puberty is needed for adequate economic performance in farms, because it indicates her reproductive performance and longevity. Therefore, an effective diagnosis is needed. Our purpose was to compare different procedures (external characteristics, blood progesterone analysis and ultrasonography diagnosis) to detect puberty in 70 gilts (Topigs TN70; 240 days old) on farm conditions. Postmortem examination was the standard reference. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to identify which combination of independent variables (predictors) best predicts the status of gilts. RESULTS Puberty (46/70 gilts; 65.71%) was characterized by the presence of follicles larger than 6 mm, corpus albicans, corpus rubrum, and corpus luteum (postmortem examination). Vaginal length, body condition, backfat, carcass weight and progesterone blood concentration were significantly higher in pubertal than prepubertal gilts (P < 0.05). Two types of ultrasonography equipment (DELTA and W3) were compared and performed by the same senior technician (V1). The results obtained by two technicians with different levels of experience (V1 and V2, a junior technician) using W3 were also compared. Ultrasonography provided better results than other diagnostic techniques, although the effectiveness of the ultrasonography changed with technological improvements and with increased expertise of technicians. The most accurate results were found by V1/DELTA (Nagelkerke´s R2 = 0.846; Sensitivity = 0.956; Specificity = 0.958; Positive predictive value = 0.978; Negative predictive value = 0.920; Area under ROC curve = 0.957). Results using the W3 equipment could be improved when used in conjunction with vaginal length (V1; Nagelkerke´s R2 = 0.834; Sensitivity = 0.933; Specificity = 0.958; Positive predictive value = 0.977; Negative predictive value = 0.885; Area under ROC curve = 0.972) or progesterone concentration (V2; Nagelkerke´s R2 = 0.780; Sensitivity = 0.955; Specificity = 0.826; Positive predictive value = 0.915; Negative predictive value = 0.905; Area under ROC curve = 0.970). CONCLUSIONS Ultrasonography provided better results than other diagnostic techniques. The effectiveness of the ultrasonography changes with technological improvements and with increased expertise of technicians. Results using the W3 equipment could be improved when used along with vaginal length (V1) or progesterone concentration (V2). Accuracy parameters are a guide to choose puberty diagnosis, but the farms must also evaluate effect on gilts, ease and cost of administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Vela
- THINKINPIG S.L., Avenida Gómez Laguna, 41 10ºA, 50009, Zaragoza, Spain.,Department of Animal Pathology, Reproductive and Obstetric Area, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agroalimentary Institute of Aragon-IA2, Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Andrés Suárez-Usbeck
- Department of Animal Pathology, Reproductive and Obstetric Area, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agroalimentary Institute of Aragon-IA2, Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Laura Lafoz
- THINKINPIG S.L., Avenida Gómez Laguna, 41 10ºA, 50009, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Olga Mitjana
- Department of Animal Pathology, Reproductive and Obstetric Area, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agroalimentary Institute of Aragon-IA2, Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - María Teresa Tejedor
- Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Animal Genetics, CIBERCV, Genetics Area, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Sofía Martín
- , KUBUS Calle Varsovia, 20, 28232 Las Rozas de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marina López
- , KUBUS Calle Varsovia, 20, 28232 Las Rozas de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Victoria Falceto
- Department of Animal Pathology, Reproductive and Obstetric Area, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agroalimentary Institute of Aragon-IA2, Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA, Zaragoza, Spain
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5
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Costermans NGJ, Teerds KJ, Middelkoop A, Roelen BAJ, Schoevers EJ, van Tol HTA, Laurenssen B, Koopmanschap RE, Zhao Y, Blokland M, van Tricht F, Zak L, Keijer J, Kemp B, Soede NM. Consequences of negative energy balance on follicular development and oocyte quality in primiparous sows†. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:388-398. [PMID: 31504218 PMCID: PMC7016286 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Revised: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolic demands of modern hybrid sows have increased over the years, which increases the chance that sows enter a substantial negative energy balance (NEB) during lactation. This NEB can influence the development of follicles and oocytes that will give rise to the next litter. To study effects of a lactational NEB on follicular development, we used 36 primiparous sows of which 18 were subjected to feed restriction (3.25 kg/day) and 18 were full-fed (6.5 kg/day) during the last 2 weeks of a 24.1 ± 0.3 day lactation. Feed restriction resulted in a 70% larger lactational body weight loss and 76% higher longissimus dorsi depth loss, but similar amounts of backfat loss compared to the full fed sows. These changes were accompanied by lower plasma insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) and higher plasma creatinine levels in the restricted sows from the last week of lactation onward. Ovaries were collected 48 h after weaning. Restricted sows had a lower average size of the 15 largest follicles (−26%) and cumulus–oocyte complexes showed less expansion after 22 h in vitro maturation (−26%). Less zygotes of restricted sows reached the metaphase stage 24 h after in vitro fertilization and showed a higher incidence of polyspermy (+89%). This shows that feed restriction had severe consequences on oocyte developmental competence. Follicular fluid of restricted sows had lower IGF1 (−56%) and steroid levels (e.g., β-estradiol, progestins, and androgens), which indicated that follicles of restricted sows were less competent to produce steroids and growth factors needed for oocytes to obtain full developmental competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- N G J Costermans
- Human and Animal Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands.,Adaptation Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - K J Teerds
- Human and Animal Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - A Middelkoop
- Adaptation Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - B A J Roelen
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - E J Schoevers
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - H T A van Tol
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - B Laurenssen
- Adaptation Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - R E Koopmanschap
- Adaptation Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Y Zhao
- Human and Animal Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - M Blokland
- Wageningen Food Safety Research (WFSR), Wageningen University & Research, Akkermaalsbos 2, 6708WB Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - F van Tricht
- Wageningen Food Safety Research (WFSR), Wageningen University & Research, Akkermaalsbos 2, 6708WB Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - L Zak
- TopigsNorsvin Research Center B. V., Beuningen, The Netherlands
| | - J Keijer
- Human and Animal Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - B Kemp
- Adaptation Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - N M Soede
- Adaptation Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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Cardoso L, Rodrigues L, Fontes D, Allison J, Chiarini-Garcia H, Almeida F. Ovarian morphometrical evaluation to assess reproductive activity suppression in heavy weight finishing gilts immunized against gonadotropin-releasing hormone. Res Vet Sci 2021; 136:519-526. [PMID: 33882380 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2021.04.005] [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: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
It is known that immunizing gilts against gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is an efficient castration method that increases their growth performance. However, it is still unknown the ovarian histophysiology outcomes after this procedure. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate in detail, using morphological and morphometrical methods, changes in the ovarian structure that result in the suppression of ovarian activity, as well as to gain knowledge on the ovarian structure to assist in ovarian histopathological diagnoses. Seventy-two pre-pubertal finishing gilts were allocated to two experimental groups: immunized (IC; n = 36; gilts which received two injections of 2 mL of Vivax® - one at 15 and another at 19 weeks of age) and control (CT; n = 36, females which received two saline injections following the same protocol). All gilts were euthanized at 25 weeks of age and the ovaries of 5 gilts from each experimental group collected for biometrical and histomorphometrical analysis. IC gilts showed higher body weights, but smaller ovaries compared to CT females. In addition, the number of small follicles (≤ 2 mm) on the ovarian surface was higher, while no large follicles (> 6 mm) nor corpora lutea were found in the ovaries of IC gilts. Histomorphometrical analysis revealed that IC females showed higher numbers of quiescent and active primordial, primary, pre-antral and final stage atretic follicles. Moreover, follicle size, antrum diameter and area of the granulosa layer from mature follicles were smaller in IC gilts. Collectively, these results demonstrate that the efficacy of immunization against GnRH is related to the blockage of follicular recruitment and selection, thus suppressing reproductive activity in finishing gilts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Cardoso
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos, 6627, 31.270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Lucas Rodrigues
- Prairie Swine Centre, Inc., S7H 5N9, 2105 - 8th Street East, Canada; Department of Animal and Poultry Science, College of Agriculture and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan, S7N 5A8, 51 Campus Drive, Canada
| | - Dalton Fontes
- Department of Animal Science, Veterinary School, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos, 6627, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Jim Allison
- Zoetis, 10 Sylvan Way, Parsippany, NJ 07054, USA
| | - Helio Chiarini-Garcia
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos, 6627, 31.270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Almeida
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos, 6627, 31.270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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Ovarian Follicle Growth during Lactation Determines the Reproductive Performance of Weaned Sows. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10061012. [PMID: 32532102 PMCID: PMC7341282 DOI: 10.3390/ani10061012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In this field study, the ovaries of weaned (n = 191, experiment 1) and lactating (n = 40, experiment 2) sows were transrectally scanned to measure the diameter of the follicles. Both the weaned and lactating sows showed great variability in the diameter of the ovarian follicles, indicating that the variability at weaning already existed during early lactation and was carried over to weaning. Sows with small follicles at weaning showed low reproductive performance and were more frequent among those with fewer farrowings and those weaned in summer–autumn. Abstract Factors causing variability in ovarian follicle size among weaned sows are not well known. This field study aimed to disclose influencing factors and evaluate if the differences at weaning were established during lactation. Ovaries were scanned using transrectal ultrasound. The first experiment was conducted over a year with 191 randomly chosen sows that were hierarchically grouped (p < 0.001) according to ovarian follicle diameter reached at weaning: Small (0.20–0.30 cm; n = 37), medium (0.31–0.39 cm; n = 75), and large (0.40-1.00 cm; n = 69). Sows with small follicles showed a higher incidence of post-weaning anestrus (p < 0.01), longer wean-to-estrus/ovulation intervals (p < 0.01) and farrowing smaller litters (p < 0.05). Ovaries with small follicles were more common among sows weaned in summer–autumn than in winter–spring (p < 0.01) and among sows of lower parity (1–3) (p < 0.05). In the second experiment, with 40 sows randomly chosen at farrowing, the ovaries were scanned at 7, 14, and 21 d post-partum. Sows showed great variability in ovarian follicular size during lactation with a consistent relationship between the three measurement times (r = 0.84, p < 0.01). Follicle size was smaller in sows nursing in summer–autumn than in winter–spring (p < 0.05). In conclusion, early lactation dictates the great variability in ovarian follicular diameter at weaning shown by sows. Sows with smaller follicles at weaning had longer intervals for estrus and ovulation and smaller litters at farrowing and they were in greater numbers among sows weaned during the summer and fall and among those with fewer previous farrowing.
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Kauffold J, Peltoniemi O, Wehrend A, Althouse GC. Principles and Clinical Uses of Real-Time Ultrasonography in Female Swine Reproduction. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9110950. [PMID: 31717951 PMCID: PMC6912286 DOI: 10.3390/ani9110950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Simply Summary Real-time ultrasonography (RTU) has become an essential diagnostic value when assessing female swine reproduction in either individual or groups of animals. Diagnostic application of RTU is applied throughout most stages of production, including gilt development, breeding, gestation and farrowing. Along with its most common use in on-farm assessment of pregnancy status, RTU is also used to troubleshoot disruptions in reproductive performance such as delayed puberty, prolonged wean-to-estrus interval, absence of post-weaning estrus, decreased conception and farrowing rates, vulval discharge, peripartum and puerperal disorders. This review aims to provide an overview on principles and clinical uses of RTU in female reproduction on commercial swine farms. Abstract Within the past 30 years, through ongoing technology and portability developments, real-time (b-mode) ultrasonography (RTU) has increasingly become a valuable diagnostic tool in assessing the female reproductive tract in swine. Initially applied in swine production to visually determine pregnancy status, RTU use has expanded to include assessment of the peri-pubertal and mature non-pregnant females as well. Transabdominal and transrectal modalities to visualizing the reproductive tract in swine have been reported with the transabdominal approach more common due to the fact of its ease of accessibility, animal/personnel safety, and reduced time to perform. Adjustable frequency transducers are preferred as they allow optimization of image quality at various depths. If a single transducer frequency must be selected, a 5 MHz probe provides the best versatility for visualizing the reproductive tract in swine. Other basic requirements for ultrasound equipment which will be used on commercial swine farms include being light weight and easy to handle, readily cleanable and disinfectable, long battery-life, and good durability. When using RTU for pregnancy determination, diagnosis is based upon a combination of the animal’s breeding records, the presence of embryonic fluid, and, depending upon gestational stage, fetal structures. If RTU is used as a diagnostic tool in assessing reproductive problems in an individual or a group of animals, sonographic evaluation of both the uterus and ovaries is performed. Tissues are delineated and assessed based upon their echogenicity, echotexture, and size. Uses of RTU in clinical practice may include assessment of delayed puberty, prolonged wean-to-estrus interval, absence of post-weaning estrus, herd disruptions in conception and farrowing rates, vulval discharge, peripartum and puerperal disorders. This review aims to provide an overview on principles and clinical uses of RTU with respect to application to address female reproductive performance issues in commercial swine operations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Kauffold
- Clinic for Ruminants and Swine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 29, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-17632539255
| | - Olli Peltoniemi
- Department of Production Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Paroninkuja 20, 04920 Saarentaus, Finland;
| | - Axel Wehrend
- Clinic for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Andrology of Large and Small Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University, Frankfurter Strasse 106, 35392 Giessen, Germany;
| | - Gary C. Althouse
- New Bolton Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 382 West Street Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348, USA;
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9
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Wu L, Zhang H, Xu K, Zhou X. Effects of feeding frequency during lactation in primiparous sows on reproduction performance and diurnal rhythm of endocrine profiles at the weaning-to-ovulation interval. BIOL RHYTHM RES 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/09291016.2018.1543632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Li Wu
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, China
| | - Haiwen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal Breeding and Epidemic Disease Research of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Kang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, China
| | - Xihong Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, China
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10
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Poulopoulou I, Eggemann A, Moors E, Lambertz C, Gauly M. Does feeding frequency during lactation affect sows' body condition, reproduction and production performance? Anim Sci J 2018; 89:1591-1598. [PMID: 30246330 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Revised: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The present study investigated whether a three-times compared to two-times feeding frequency during lactation affects sows' body condition, reproductive performance as well as growth performance of the piglets . In a commercial farm, eight groups (8-10 animals) with a total number of 68 sows were included in the study. During lactation, four groups received feed two times (treatment 2DF) and four groups three times daily (treatment 3DF). Within treatments, sows were classified into young (<2 parities) and old (≥3 parities). Body condition score (BCS), shoulder lesions, return to estrus rate and piglet's growth performance were recorded. The 3DF sows had a higher (p < 0.05) feed intake and less shoulder lesions (p < 0.05) than 2DF animals. Return to estrus rate in the 3DF treatment was 0% for young and 29% for old sows. In the 2DF treatment return to estrus rate was 20% for young and 5% for old sows. In conclusion, three-times versus two-times daily feeding frequency during lactation increased feed intake and had a positive effect on sows' BCS and the frequency of shoulder lesions, while it also reduced incidents of return to estrus rate in young sows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Poulopoulou
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Anne Eggemann
- Department of Animal Sciences, Georg-August-University, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Eva Moors
- Department of Animal Sciences, Georg-August-University, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Christian Lambertz
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Matthias Gauly
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, Bolzano, Italy
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11
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van Wettere WHEJ, Weaver AC, Greenwood EC, Terry R, Hughes PE, Kind KL. Controlling lactation oestrus: The final frontier for breeding herd management. Mol Reprod Dev 2017. [PMID: 28628264 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Lactation anoestrus limits the flexibility of modern pig production systems such that any increase in lactation length reduces farrowing frequency, and thus profit. This review focuses on post-partum development of the sow's reproductive system, the physiology of lactation anoestrus and how it can be overcome, as well as the fertility of sows mated while lactating. The propensity for sows to ovulate spontaneously while lactating is high (24-31%), and a high proportion of sows will ovulate rapidly and synchronously in response to combinations of altered suckling (split weaning, interrupted suckling), daily boar contact, exogenous gonadotrophins, and group housing. The apparent ease with which lactation anoestrus can be overcome represents an opportunity to uncouple sow mating from weaning, thus reducing the impact of lactation length on productivity. This is especially true when considering the benefits of the described stimulation methods on the reproductive performance (i.e., shorter weaning to oestrus intervals and higher litter sizes) of the low proportion of sows that maintain lactation anoestrus.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H E J van Wettere
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy Campus, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - Alice C Weaver
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy Campus, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - Emma C Greenwood
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy Campus, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - Robyn Terry
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy Campus, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - Paul E Hughes
- Paul Hughes Consulting, North Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Karen L Kind
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy Campus, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
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12
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Kraeling RR, Webel SK. Current strategies for reproductive management of gilts and sows in North America. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2015; 6:3. [PMID: 25838898 PMCID: PMC4382856 DOI: 10.1186/2049-1891-6-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2014] [Accepted: 01/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Many advances in genetic selection, nutrition, housing and disease control have been incorporated into modern pork production since the 1950s resulting in highly prolific females and practices and technologies, which significantly increased efficiency of reproduction in the breeding herd. The objective of this manuscript is to review the literature and current industry practices employed for reproductive management. In particular the authors focus on assisted reproduction technologies and their application for enhanced productivity. Modern maternal line genotypes have lower appetites and exceptional lean growth potential compared to females of 20 yr ago. Thus, nutrient requirements and management techniques and technologies, which affect gilt development and sow longevity, require continuous updating. Failure to detect estrus accurately has the greatest impact on farrowing rate and litter size. Yet, even accurate estrus detection will not compensate for the variability in the interval between onset of estrus and actual time of ovulation. However, administration of GnRH analogs in weaned sows and in gilts after withdrawal of altrenogest do overcome this variability and thereby synchronize ovulation, which makes fixed-time AI practical. Seasonal infertility, mediated by temperature and photoperiod, is a persistent problem. Training workers in the art of stockmanship is of increasing importance as consumers become more interested in humane animal care. Altrenogest, is used to synchronize the estrous cycle of gilts, to prolong gestation for 2–3 d to synchronize farrowing and to postpone post-weaning estrus. P.G. 600® is used for induction of estrus in pre-pubertal gilts and as a treatment to overcome seasonal anestrous. Sperm cell numbers/dose of semen is significantly less for post cervical AI than for cervical AI. Real-time ultrasonography is used to determine pregnancy during wk 3–5. PGF2α effectively induces farrowing when administered within two d of normal gestation length. Ovulation synchronization, single fixed-time AI and induced parturition may lead to farrowing synchronization, which facilitates supervision and reduces stillbirths and piglet mortality. Attendance and assistance at farrowing is important especially to ensure adequate colostrum consumption by piglets immediately after birth. New performance terminologies are presented.
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13
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de Jong E, Kauffold J, Engl S, Jourquin J, Maes D. Effect of a GnRH analogue (Maprelin) on the reproductive performance of gilts and sows. Theriogenology 2013; 80:870-7. [PMID: 23987986 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2013.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2013] [Revised: 07/18/2013] [Accepted: 07/22/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The ability of peforelin (l-GnRH-III) to stimulate follicular growth, FSH release, and estrus in gilts after altrenogest treatment and in sows after weaning was investigated. In three farrow-to-wean herds, with at least 600 sows and average production performance, 216 gilts, 335 primiparous, and 1299 pluriparous sows were randomly allocated to three treatments: peforelin (M group: Maprelin), eCG (F group: Folligon), and physiological saline solution (C group). Animals were treated 48 hours after their last altrenogest treatment (gilts) or 24 hours after weaning (sows). The weaning-to-estrus interval, estrus duration, estrus rate (ER), pregnancy rate, and total born (TB), live born, and stillborn (SB) numbers were recorded and compared between treatments for the different parity groups (gilts and primiparous and pluriparous sows). Follicle sizes were measured in representative animals from each group on the occasion of their last altrenogest treatment or at weaning, and also on the occasions of their first (FS1) and second (FS2) attempted inseminations. Blood samples were taken to determine FSH concentrations at weaning and 2 hours after injection, and progesterone concentrations 10 days after the first insemination attempt. The relative change in FSH concentrations was calculated. Significant differences were found for ER within 7 days of weaning in pluriparous sows (95%, 91%, and 90% for the M, F, and C groups, respectively, P = 0.005). Gilts in the F-group had high TB numbers, and pluriparous sows in the M group had high SB numbers (TB gilts = 13.6, 15.4, and 14.9 [P = 0.02] and SB pluriparous sows = 1.8, 1.4, and 1.7 [P = 0.05] for the M, F, and C groups, respectively). The M group had the highest FS1 (for gilts) and FS2 (for pluriparous sows) values: FS1 = 5.4, 4.9, and 4.9 mm [P = 0.02] and FS2 = 6.8, 5.3, and 6.3 mm [P = 0.03] for the M, F, and C groups, respectively. There were no significant differences between the different treatments within each parity group with respect to any of the other variables. Overall, peforelin treatment had small but positive effects on the ER and follicle growth in certain parity groups but did not seem to affect litter sizes or FSH and progesterone levels in sows on the occasions of the corresponding examinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen de Jong
- Department of Reproduction Obstetrics and Herd Health, Unit Porcine Health Management, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ghent, Merelbeke, Belgium.
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14
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Chen TY, Stott P, Athorn RZ, Bouwman EG, Langendijk P. Undernutrition during early follicle development has irreversible effects on ovulation rate and embryos. Reprod Fertil Dev 2012; 24:886-92. [PMID: 22781940 DOI: 10.1071/rd11292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2011] [Accepted: 02/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This study assessed carry-over effects of energy level during the early antral phase and subsequent follicular phase on follicle recruitment and ovulation rate. Gilts (n=45) were fed a standard diet to a low (L, ~1.2kg day(-1)) or high (H, ~2.7kg day(-1)) level during the early antral (luteal) phase, and subsequently fed a H or L feed level during the follicular phase, resulting in four treatment groups (HH, HL, LH and LL). Follicle size at the end of the luteal phase was greater for gilts fed a high feed level previously (3.3vs3.0mm; P<0.05). During the follicular phase, high feeding increased follicle size at Day 5 (6.9vs6.2mm; P<0.005) and plasma oestradiol concentration (P<0.05). Nevertheless, a low feed level during the luteal phase reduced ovulation rate (14.4vs13.2; P<0.05) and embryo number (12.6vs10.5; P<0.05), and this was not counteracted by feed level during the follicular phase. Plasma progesterone concentration after ovulation was lower for LL gilts than for other treatments (P<0.05). These results indicate that undernutrition during early antral follicle development may have a residual effect on follicle recruitment and quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Y Chen
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy Campus, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia.
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Park MS, Yang YX, Shinde PL, Choi JY, Jo JK, Kim JS, Lohakare JD, Yang BK, Lee JK, Kwon IK, Chae BJ. ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Effects of dietary glucose inclusion on reproductive performance, milk compositions and blood profiles in lactating sows. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2010; 94:677-84. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0396.2009.00962.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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16
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Lundgren H, Canario L, Grandinson K, Lundeheim N, Zumbach B, Vangen O, Rydhmer L. Genetic analysis of reproductive performance in Landrace sows and its correlation to piglet growth. Livest Sci 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2009.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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17
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Gonzalez-Añover P, Encinas T, Gomez-Izquierdo E, Sanz E, Sanchez-Sanchez R, Gonzalez-Bulnes A. Accuracy of in vivo and ex vivo ultrasonographic evaluation of ovarian follicles and corpora lutea in sows. Theriogenology 2009; 71:1433-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2009.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2008] [Revised: 01/04/2009] [Accepted: 01/16/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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