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Klohonatz K, Durrant B, Sirard MA, Ruggeri E. Granulosa cells provide transcriptomic information on ovarian follicle dynamics in southern white rhinoceros. Sci Rep 2024; 14:19321. [PMID: 39164442 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-70235-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Much remains unknown about the reproductive physiology of southern white rhinoceros (SWR) and the effect of ovarian stimulation prior to ovum pickup (OPU) have not been fully elucidated. Granulosa cells (GC) provide valuable insight into follicle growth and oocyte maturation status. The goals of this study were to evaluate transcriptomic changes in GC from three stages of follicle development and to identify biomarkers possibly associated with follicular growth and maturation as a result of ovarian stimulation. GC collected from SWRs following OPU were assigned stages based upon follicle size. Total RNA was isolated, and cDNA libraries were prepared and sequenced on a NovaSeq 6000. All bioinformatics analyses were performed utilizing the Galaxy web platform. Reads were aligned to CerSimCot1.0, and the manual curation was performed with EquCab3.0. Overall, 39,455 transcripts (21,612 genes) were identified across follicle stages, and manual curation yielded a 61% increase in gene identification from the original annotation. Granulosa cells from preovulatory follicles expressed the highest number of unique transcripts. The following seven biomarkers were determined based upon cluster analysis and patterns of expression: COL1A1, JMY, FBXW11, NRG1, TMPO, MACIR and COL4A1. These data can be used to potentially evaluate the effects of different ovarian stimulation protocols on follicle dynamics, improve OPU results, and support conservation efforts in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Klohonatz
- Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Barbara Durrant
- Reproductive Sciences, Conservation Science Wildlife Health, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, Escondido, CA, USA
| | - Marc-André Sirard
- Département des Sciences Animales, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Elena Ruggeri
- Reproductive Sciences, Conservation Science Wildlife Health, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, Escondido, CA, USA.
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2
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Gad A, Menjivar NG, Felton R, Durrant B, Tesfaye D, Ruggeri E. Mapping the follicle-specific regulation of extracellular vesicle-mediated microRNA transport in the southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum)†. Biol Reprod 2024; 111:376-390. [PMID: 38775197 PMCID: PMC11327318 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Efforts to implement effective assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) for the conservation of the northern white rhinoceros (NWR; Ceratotherium simum cottoni) to prevent its forthcoming extinction, could be supported by research conducted on the closely related southern white rhinoceros (SWR; Ceratotherium simum simum). Within the follicle, extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a fundamental role in the bidirectional communication facilitating the crucial transport of regulatory molecules such as microRNAs (miRNAs) that control follicular growth and oocyte development. This study aimed to elucidate the dynamics of EV-miRNAs in stage-dependent follicular fluid (FF) during SWR ovarian antral follicle development. Three distinct follicular stages were identified based on diameter: Growing (G; 11-17 mm), Dominant (D; 18-29 mm), and Pre-ovulatory (P; 30-34 mm). Isolated EVs from the aspirated FF of segmented follicle stages were used to identify EV-miRNAs previously known via subsequent annotation to all equine (Equus caballus; eca), bovine (Bos taurus; bta), and human (Homo sapiens; hsa) miRNAs. A total of 417 miRNAs were detected, with 231 being mutually expressed across all three stages, including eca-miR-148a and bta-miR-451 as the top highly expressed miRNAs. Distinct expression dynamics in miRNA abundance were observed across the three follicular stages, including 31 differentially expressed miRNAs that target various pathways related to follicular growth and development, with 13 miRNAs commonly appearing amidst two different comparisons. In conclusion, this pioneering study provides a comprehensive understanding of the stage-specific expression dynamics of FF EV-miRNAs in the SWR. These findings provide insights that may lead to novel approaches in enhancing ARTs to catalyze rhinoceros conservation efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Gad
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory (ARBL), Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
| | - Nico G Menjivar
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory (ARBL), Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Rachel Felton
- Reproductive Sciences, Conservation Science Wildlife Health, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, Escondido, CA 92027, USA
| | - Barbara Durrant
- Reproductive Sciences, Conservation Science Wildlife Health, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, Escondido, CA 92027, USA
| | - Dawit Tesfaye
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory (ARBL), Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Elena Ruggeri
- Reproductive Sciences, Conservation Science Wildlife Health, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, Escondido, CA 92027, USA
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3
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Yoelinda VT, Arifiantini RI, Solihin DD, Agil M, Setiadi DR, Maulana T, Purwantara B, Hastuti YT, Manansang J, Sajuthi D. Correlation between Post-Thaw Spermatozoa Quality of the Endangered Javan Banteng with OPN Gene Expression. Vet Med Int 2023; 2023:9982422. [PMID: 37448586 PMCID: PMC10338126 DOI: 10.1155/2023/9982422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of ex situ conservation facilities or captivity through captive breeding programs is essential in the conservation of the endangered Javan banteng. The development of semen cryopreservation may assist on one side of the conservation plan. However, the male Javan banteng reproductive capability must be considered as it influences the targeted outputs. Studying the potential biomarker for fertility such as osteopontin gene expression is also expected to help predict male fertility. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the quality of spermatozoa after thawing to help predict the male reproductive capability of Javan banteng. Furthermore, this study investigated the potential role of osteopontin gene expression in male Javan banteng fertility. A positive reinforcement approach was used to accustom the male and female animals as we focused on establishing a collection procedure using neither sedation nor anaesthesia. Semen samples were collected at Taman Safari Indonesia, Bogor, in accordance with the female banteng receptivity. Semen samples were then evaluated and then cryopreserved under field conditions. Our study showed the different predicted reproductive capability of the Javan banteng based on the post-thaw spermatozoa quality, which showed significant differences. The OPN gene showed positive correlations with the progressive motility (r = 0.711, p = 0.048), viability (r = 0.822, p = 0.012), and acrosomal integrity (r = 0.665, p = 0.072) of Javan banteng spermatozoa after thawing. Our study demonstrated the predicted Javan banteng reproductive capability based on various post-thaw spermatozoa variables. This finding is also the first report on the OPN gene potential to be developed as the assessment tool of post-thaw spermatozoa quality of the male Javan banteng. The findings in our study may help give recommendations for future breeding programs, especially in the ex situ conservation sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincentia Trisna Yoelinda
- Study Program of Reproductive Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, West Java 16680, Indonesia
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia
| | - Raden Iis Arifiantini
- Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, West Java 16680, Indonesia
| | | | - Muhammad Agil
- Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, West Java 16680, Indonesia
| | - Dedi Rahmat Setiadi
- Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, West Java 16680, Indonesia
| | - Tulus Maulana
- Research Centre of Applied Zoology, National Research and Innovation Agency, Cibinong, Bogor, West Java 16911, Indonesia
| | - Bambang Purwantara
- Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, West Java 16680, Indonesia
| | - Yohana Tri Hastuti
- Taman Safari Indonesia Bogor, Cisarua, Bogor, West Java 16750, Indonesia
| | - Jansen Manansang
- Taman Safari Indonesia Bogor, Cisarua, Bogor, West Java 16750, Indonesia
| | - Dondin Sajuthi
- Division of Internal Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, West Java 16680, Indonesia
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Schwarzenberger F, Hermes R. Comparative analysis of gestation in three rhinoceros species (Diceros bicornis; Ceratotherium simum; Rhinoceros unicornis). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2023; 334:114214. [PMID: 36646327 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2023.114214] [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] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
This comparative analysis evaluated endocrine profiles and gestation length data of captive pregnant black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis), white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum), and greater one-horned (GOH) rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis). Hormone profiles were collected over three decades as part of pregnancy diagnoses. After the third month of gestation, the luteo-placental shift in progesterone production in pregnant rhinoceroses causes a significant increase in the concentration of faecal progesterone metabolites. We defined a laboratory-specific value of 1000 ng/g faeces as a threshold for incipient feto-placental progesterone production. Using this value allowed a comparison between species and revealed significant individual differences within a species. The mean ± SEM gestation days for reaching the 1000 ng/g faeces threshold were 89.5 ± 2.9 (range 56-138 days; n = 39) in black, 96.0 ± 2.6 (58-138; n = 39) in white, and 117.8 ± 5.3 (74-173; n = 19) in GOH rhinoceroses. For the calculations of gestation length, we complemented our results from three decades of reproductive monitoring with data from the literature, resulting in about 70 values for each species. Gestation length in the black, the white and the GOH rhinoceros was 460.6 ± 1.5 (range: 436 - 486), 503.8 ± 1.3 (range: 480 - 525) and 480.5 ± 1.1 (range: 453 - 505) days, respectively. Daylight length significantly affected gestation length, while the sex of offspring had no effect. On average, pregnancies with parturitions in spring and summer were one week shorter than those in autumn and winter. Although rhinoceroses are non-seasonal breeders, most parturitions in captivity occur in autumn and winter. We also analysed preconception endocrine profiles in the white rhinoceros. Conceptions in this species occurred after oestrous cycles of approximately 35 days (n = 18), 70 days (n = 3), 15 days (n = 1), after periods of ovarian inactivity (n = 5), and during a foal heat within one month after stillbirth parturition (n = 1). In conclusion, this study provides a comprehensive overview of gestational parameters in three rhinoceros species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franz Schwarzenberger
- Dept. of Biomed. Sci. - Physiology, Pathophysiology & Experimental Endocrinology, Vetmeduni Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Robert Hermes
- Dept. Reproduction Management, Leibnitz Institute for Zoo & Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str 17, 10315 Berlin, Germany.
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5
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Biasetti P, Hildebrandt TB, Göritz F, Hermes R, Holtze S, Stejskal J, Galli C, Pollastri I, Muzzo A, Lekolool I, Ndereeh D, Omondi P, Kariuki L, Mijele D, Mutisya S, Ngulu S, de Mori B. Application of decision tools to ethical analysis in biodiversity conservation. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2023; 37:e14029. [PMID: 36317722 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.14029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Achieving ethically responsible decisions is crucial for the success of biodiversity conservation projects. We adapted the ethical matrix, decision tree, and Bateson's cube to assist in the ethical analysis of complex conservation scenarios by structuring these tools so that they can implement the different value dimensions (environmental, social, and animal welfare) involved in conservation ethics. We then applied them to a case study relative to the decision-making process regarding whether or not to continue collecting biomaterial on the oldest of the two remaining northern white rhinoceroses (Ceratotherium simum cottoni), a functionally extinct subspecies of the white rhinoceros. We used the ethical matrix to gather ethical pros and cons and as a starting point for a participatory approach to ethical decision-making. We used decision trees to compare the different options at stake on the basis of a set of ethical desiderata. We used Bateson's cube to establish a threshold of ethical acceptability and model the results of a simple survey. The application of these tools proved to be pivotal in structuring the decision-making process and in helping reach a shared, reasoned, and transparent decision on the best option from an ethical point of view among those available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierfrancesco Biasetti
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy
| | - Thomas B Hildebrandt
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Göritz
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Hermes
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jan Stejskal
- ZOO Dvůr Králové, Králové nad Labem, Czech Republic
| | - Cesare Galli
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, Cremona, Italy
| | - Ilaria Pollastri
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Alessia Muzzo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | | | - David Ndereeh
- Wildlife Research and Training Institute, Karagita, Kenya
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Barbara de Mori
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
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6
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Biasetti P, Hildebrandt TB, Göritz F, Hermes R, Holtze S, Galli C, Lazzari G, Colleoni S, Pollastri I, Spiriti MM, Stejskal J, Seet S, Zwilling J, Ngulu S, Mutisya S, Kariuki L, Lokolool I, Omondo P, Ndeereh D, de Mori B. Ethical Analysis of the Application of Assisted Reproduction Technologies in Biodiversity Conservation and the Case of White Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) Ovum Pick-Up Procedures. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:831675. [PMID: 35591869 PMCID: PMC9113018 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.831675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Originally applied on domestic and lab animals, assisted reproduction technologies (ARTs) have also found application in conservation breeding programs, where they can make the genetic management of populations more efficient, and increase the number of individuals per generation. However, their application in wildlife conservation opens up new ethical scenarios that have not yet been fully explored. This study presents a frame for the ethical analysis of the application of ART procedures in conservation based on the Ethical Matrix (EM), and discusses a specific case study—ovum pick-up (OPU) procedures performed in the current conservation efforts for the northern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum cottoni)—providing a template for the assessment of ART procedures in projects involving other endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierfrancesco Biasetti
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation, and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- *Correspondence: Pierfrancesco Biasetti
| | - Thomas B. Hildebrandt
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität, Berlin, Germany
- Thomas B. Hildebrandt
| | - Frank Göritz
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Hermes
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Cesare Galli
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, Cremona, Italy
| | - Giovanna Lazzari
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, Cremona, Italy
| | - Silvia Colleoni
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, Cremona, Italy
| | - Ilaria Pollastri
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation, and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Maria Michela Spiriti
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation, and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Jan Stejskal
- ZOO Dvůr Králové, Dvůr Králové nad Labem, Czechia
| | - Steven Seet
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jan Zwilling
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Barbara de Mori
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation, and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
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Rickard JP, Pool K, de Graaf SP, Portas T, Rourke N, Wiesner M, Hildebrandt TB, Göritz F, Hermes R. Increasing the Yield and Cryosurvival of Spermatozoa from Rhinoceros Ejaculates Using the Enzyme Papain. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11020154. [PMID: 35205021 PMCID: PMC8869768 DOI: 10.3390/biology11020154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Efficient collection and cryosurvival of semen from threatened wildlife species is key for the success of artificial reproductive technologies (ARTs). The viscous nature of ejaculates often collected from species such as rhinoceros, elephant, hippopotamus and primate, render the majority of spermatozoa collected useless and is therefore wasted. The enzyme papain has been used to reduce the viscosity of camelid semen but has yet to be tested in wildlife species. Therefore, the current study investigated the ability of papain to improve the yield and quality of spermatozoa collected from viscous fractions of the rhinoceros ejaculate during cryopreservation. Papain increased the quantity of useable spermatozoa collected from ejaculates, as well as the motility prior to freezing. It also improved the post-thaw motility, velocity, linearity and straightness of samples compared to spermatozoa frozen from the sperm-rich fraction of the ejaculate. There was no detrimental effect on membrane characteristics or DNA integrity. These results show that treating rhinoceros ejaculates with papain is able to salvage valuable spermatozoa and improve survival post-thaw, ultimately increasing the success of ARTs and creation of biobanks for the maintenance and survival of threatened species. Abstract The preservation of rhinoceros semen is vital for captive breeding programs. While successful collection and cryopreservation of rhinoceros semen has been reported, the volume and quality of semen produced is often low due to the high viscosity associated with ejaculates collected via electroejaculation. Reducing semen viscosity would enable access to previously unusable spermatozoa from viscous fractions and could improve quality post-thaw. The enzyme papain successfully reduced the viscosity of camelid semen but has yet to be tested in wildlife species. This study assessed the influence of papain on the in vitro quality of rhinoceros spermatozoa during cryopreservation using advanced semen assessment. In experiment 1, the motility of spermatozoa from the viscous fraction of an ejaculate, either untreated or treated with papain and its inhibitor E-64 prior to cryopreservation, was assessed post-thaw. In experiment 2, spermatozoa from papain-treated viscous fractions were compared to spermatozoa frozen from untreated sperm-rich fractions pre-freeze, as well as after 0, 1.5 and 3 h of incubation post-thaw (37 °C). Papain significantly increased the quantity of spermatozoa collected from ejaculates, as well as the motility prior to freezing. Papain also improved the post-thaw motility, velocity, linearity and straightness of samples compared to sperm-rich samples, with no detriment to sperm viability, lipid membrane disorder, production of ROS or DNA integrity (p < 0.05). Results show the benefit of supplementing rhinoceros spermatozoa with papain prior to cryopreservation on sperm cryosurvival and demonstrates the potential of using papain to improve the success of cryopreservation protocols, not only for the rhinoceros, but also for other wildlife species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica P. Rickard
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (K.P.); (S.P.d.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-2-93518564
| | - Kelsey Pool
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (K.P.); (S.P.d.G.)
| | - Simon P. de Graaf
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (K.P.); (S.P.d.G.)
| | - Timothy Portas
- Zoo and Wildlife Veterinary Consultancy, Maleny, QLD 4552, Australia;
| | | | | | - Thomas B. Hildebrandt
- Department of Reproductive Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, 10315 Berlin, Germany; (T.B.H.); (F.G.); (R.H.)
| | - Frank Göritz
- Department of Reproductive Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, 10315 Berlin, Germany; (T.B.H.); (F.G.); (R.H.)
| | - Robert Hermes
- Department of Reproductive Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, 10315 Berlin, Germany; (T.B.H.); (F.G.); (R.H.)
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8
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Li MF, Swaisgood RR, Owen MA, Zhang H, Zhang G, Qiu J, Martin MS. Consequences of nescient mating: artificial insemination increases cub rejection in the giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca). Appl Anim Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2022.105565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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9
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Korody ML, Ford SM, Nguyen TD, Pivaroff CG, Valiente-Alandi I, Peterson SE, Ryder OA, Loring JF. Rewinding Extinction in the Northern White Rhinoceros: Genetically Diverse Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Bank for Genetic Rescue. Stem Cells Dev 2021; 30:177-189. [PMID: 33406994 PMCID: PMC7891310 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2021.0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Extinction rates are rising, and current conservation technologies may not be adequate for reducing species losses. Future conservation efforts may be aided by the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from highly endangered species. Generation of a set of iPSCs from multiple members of a species can capture some of the dwindling genetic diversity of a disappearing species. We generated iPSCs from fibroblasts cryopreserved in the Frozen Zoo®: nine genetically diverse individuals of the functionally extinct northern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum cottoni) and two from the closely related southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum). We used a nonintegrating Sendai virus reprogramming method and developed analyses to confirm the cells' pluripotency and differentiation potential. This work is the first step of a long-term interdisciplinary plan to apply assisted reproduction techniques to the conservation of this highly endangered species. Advances in iPSC differentiation may enable generation of gametes in vitro from deceased and nonreproductive individuals that could be used to repopulate the species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa L Korody
- San Diego Zoo Global, Beckman Center for Conservation Research, Escondido, California, USA.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Sarah M Ford
- San Diego Zoo Global, Beckman Center for Conservation Research, Escondido, California, USA
| | - Thomas D Nguyen
- San Diego Zoo Global, Beckman Center for Conservation Research, Escondido, California, USA.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Cullen G Pivaroff
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Iñigo Valiente-Alandi
- San Diego Zoo Global, Beckman Center for Conservation Research, Escondido, California, USA
| | - Suzanne E Peterson
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Oliver A Ryder
- San Diego Zoo Global, Beckman Center for Conservation Research, Escondido, California, USA
| | - Jeanne F Loring
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, La Jolla, California, USA
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10
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de Mori B, Spiriti MM, Pollastri I, Normando S, Biasetti P, Florio D, Andreucci F, Colleoni S, Galli C, Göritz F, Hermes R, Holtze S, Lazzari G, Seet S, Zwilling J, Stejskal J, Mutisya S, Ndeereh D, Ngulu S, Vigne R, Hildebrandt TB. An Ethical Assessment Tool (ETHAS) to Evaluate the Application of Assisted Reproductive Technologies in Mammals' Conservation: The Case of the Northern White Rhinoceros ( Ceratotherium simum cottoni). Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:312. [PMID: 33530613 PMCID: PMC7911958 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) can make a difference in biodiversity conservation. Their application, however, can create risks and raise ethical issues that need addressing. Unfortunately, there is a lack of attention to the topic in the scientific literature and, to our knowledge, there is no tool for the ethical assessment of ARTs in the context of conservation that has been described. This paper reports the first applications of the Ethical Assessment Tool (ETHAS) to trans-rectal ovum pick-up (OPU) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures used in a northern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum cottoni) conservation project. The ETHAS consists of two checklists, the Ethical Evaluation Sheet and the Ethical Risk Assessment, and is specifically customized for each ART procedure. It provides an integrated, multilevel and standardized self-assessment of the procedure under scrutiny, generating an ethical acceptability ranking (totally, partially, not acceptable) and a risk rank (low, medium, high), and, hence, allows for implementing measures to address or manage issues beforehand. The application of the ETHAS to the procedures performed on the northern white rhinoceros was effective in ensuring a high standard of procedures, contributing to the acceptability and improved communication among the project's partners. In turn, the tool itself was also refined through an iterative consultation process between experts and stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara de Mori
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (M.M.S.); (I.P.)
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
| | - Maria Michela Spiriti
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (M.M.S.); (I.P.)
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
| | - Ilaria Pollastri
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (M.M.S.); (I.P.)
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
| | - Simona Normando
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (M.M.S.); (I.P.)
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
| | - Pierfrancesco Biasetti
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (F.G.); (R.H.); (S.H.)
| | - Daniela Florio
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
- Department of Veterinary Medical Science, University of Bologna, 40064 Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Andreucci
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
| | - Silvia Colleoni
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, 26100 Cremona, Italy; (S.C.); (C.G.); (G.L.)
| | - Cesare Galli
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, 26100 Cremona, Italy; (S.C.); (C.G.); (G.L.)
- Avantea Foundation, 26100 Cremona, Italy
| | - Frank Göritz
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (F.G.); (R.H.); (S.H.)
| | - Robert Hermes
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (F.G.); (R.H.); (S.H.)
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (F.G.); (R.H.); (S.H.)
| | - Giovanna Lazzari
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, 26100 Cremona, Italy; (S.C.); (C.G.); (G.L.)
- Avantea Foundation, 26100 Cremona, Italy
| | - Steven Seet
- Science Communication, Science Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (S.S.); (J.Z.)
| | - Jan Zwilling
- Science Communication, Science Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (S.S.); (J.Z.)
| | - Jan Stejskal
- ZOO Dvůr Králové, 54401 Dvůr Králové nad Labem, Czech Republic;
| | - Samuel Mutisya
- Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy, Nanyuki 10400, Kenya; (S.M.); (S.N.); (R.V.)
| | | | - Stephen Ngulu
- Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy, Nanyuki 10400, Kenya; (S.M.); (S.N.); (R.V.)
| | - Richard Vigne
- Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy, Nanyuki 10400, Kenya; (S.M.); (S.N.); (R.V.)
| | - Thomas B. Hildebrandt
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (F.G.); (R.H.); (S.H.)
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Free University of Berlin, D-14195 Berlin, Germany
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11
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Tarmizi R, Keng Chee Y, Sipangkui S, Zainuddin ZZ, Fitri WN. The Comparison of Semen Collection in Electroejaculation, Rectal Massage and Combination of Both Methods in the Critically Endangered Malayan Pangolin, Manis javanica. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10111948. [PMID: 33113883 PMCID: PMC7690726 DOI: 10.3390/ani10111948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
This article describes the semen characteristics from different collection methods between captive and confiscated Malayan pangolins, Manis javanica. Semen was collected from 15 pangolins; two captive and 13 confiscated individuals at the mean weight of 9.36 ± 1.94 kg. The three semen collection methods employed were electroejaculation, rectal massage and a combination of both techniques. The semen characteristics (mean ± standard deviation) of the Malayan pangolin are volume (73.75 ± 144.57 µL), pH (7.63 ± 0.53), spermatozoa concentration (997.19 ± 728.98 × 106 /mL), total motility (59.60% ± 30.00%), progressive motility (48.95% ± 30.93%), mass motility (3.50 ± 1.50) and live spermatozoa (80.25% ± 13.45%). There was no significant difference in semen characteristics between the three collection methods. The percentages of live spermatozoa were significantly different, suggesting better samples from captive compared to confiscated animals. However, there was no significant difference in spermatozoa kinetics between the captive and confiscated samples, suggesting the potential of utilizing confiscated individuals for gamete recovery to conserve the genetic pool of pangolins. All three methods of semen collection were successfully performed in pangolins and should be considered; however, electroejaculation remains the most consistent method of obtaining semen from the species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Tarmizi
- Borneo Rhino Alliance, Sabah, Malaysia, c/o Faculty of Sciences and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Sabah, Malaysia; (R.T.); (Y.K.C.); (Z.Z.Z.)
| | - Yap Keng Chee
- Borneo Rhino Alliance, Sabah, Malaysia, c/o Faculty of Sciences and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Sabah, Malaysia; (R.T.); (Y.K.C.); (Z.Z.Z.)
| | - Symphorosa Sipangkui
- Sabah Wildlife Department, Tingkat 4, Blok B, Wisma MUIS, Kota Kinabalu 88100, Sabah, Malaysia;
| | - Zainal Zahari Zainuddin
- Borneo Rhino Alliance, Sabah, Malaysia, c/o Faculty of Sciences and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Sabah, Malaysia; (R.T.); (Y.K.C.); (Z.Z.Z.)
| | - Wan-Nor Fitri
- Theriogenology and Cytogenetics Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Seri Kembangan 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +06-8609-3908
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12
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Pollock KE, O'Brien JK, Roth TL, Proudfoot J, Niederlander J, Micheas L, Robeck TR, Stoops MA. Anti-Müllerian hormone in managed African and Asian rhino species. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2020; 294:113487. [PMID: 32278883 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2020.113487] [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] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Serum collected across the lifespan of four managed rhino species: black (Diceros bicornis, n = 16), white (Ceratotherium simum simum, n = 19), greater one-horned (GOH, Rhinoceros unicornis, n = 11) and Sumatran (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis, n = 6) were validated and analyzed in an anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) enzyme- linked immunoassay. Concentrations of AMH were examined over time, between sexes and throughout different reproductive states which included n = 3 female white rhinos immunocontracepted with porcine zona pellucida (pZP). Across species, males produced higher AMH concentrations compared to females. Among males, AMH concentrations varied by species aside from comparable values secreted between black and white rhinos. The GOH and Sumatran rhino secreted the highest and lowest male AMH concentrations, respectively. However, within each species, AMH concentrations were similar across male age categories. Preliminary insight into male AMH changes from birth to sexual maturity suggest its potential as a marker for onset of testicular maturation. Female black, GOH and Sumatran rhinos secreted comparable AMH concentrations which were higher than those in white rhino. Within each species, inter-individual variation in AMH secretion occurred among females of similar age. While AMH secretion did not differ across the ages sampled for female white (4->26 yr) and GOH (4-26 yr) rhinos, black and Sumatran rhinos >26 and <4 yr, respectively secreted lower AMH compared to conspecific females 7-26 yr of age. Two idiopathic infertility cases corresponded to low (outside species range) AMH values. The establishment of normative AMH concentrations in managed African and Asian rhinos provides an additional metric beyond traditional sex steroids to assess gonadal function. Further work is needed to determine if AMH can predict fertility potential in rhinos.
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Affiliation(s)
- K E Pollock
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
| | - J K O'Brien
- SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Reproductive Research Center, SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, 2595 Ingraham St, San Diego, CA 92109, USA
| | - T L Roth
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
| | - J Proudfoot
- Indianapolis Zoo, 1200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46222, USA
| | | | - L Micheas
- University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - T R Robeck
- SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Reproductive Research Center, SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, 2595 Ingraham St, San Diego, CA 92109, USA
| | - M A Stoops
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA.
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13
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Ryder OA, Friese C, Greely HT, Sandler R, Saragusty J, Durrant BS, Redford KH. Exploring the limits of saving a subspecies: The ethics and social dynamics of restoring northern white rhinos (
Ceratotherium simum cottoni
). CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Oliver A. Ryder
- San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research Escondido California USA
| | - Carrie Friese
- Sociology DepartmentLondon School of Economics and Political Science London UK
| | | | - Ronald Sandler
- Department of Philosophy and ReligionNortheastern University Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Joseph Saragusty
- Laboratory of Embryology. Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Campus Coste San AgostinoUniversity of Teramo Teramo Italy
| | - Barbara S. Durrant
- San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research Escondido California USA
| | - Kent H. Redford
- Archipelago Consulting Portland Maine USA
- Department of Environmental StudiesUniversity of New England Biddeford Maine USA
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University Brisbane Queensland Australia
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14
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Lueders I, Allen WRT. Managed wildlife breeding-an undervalued conservation tool? Theriogenology 2020; 150:48-54. [PMID: 32088045 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.01.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Knowledge of and the technologies and resources applied to the ex situ care for wildlife have improved greatly in recent years. This has resulted in numerous successes bringing back populations from the brink of extinction by the reintroduction or restoration of animals from conservation breeding programmes. Controlled breeding of wildlife by humans is discussed controversially in society and in scientific circles and it faces a number of significant challenges. When natural breeding fails, Assisted Reproduction Technologies (ART) have been postulated to increase reproductive output and maintain genetic diversity. Furthermore, technical advances have improved the potential for successful collection and cryopreservation of gametes and embryos in many wildlife species. With the aim of creating a better understanding of why ex situ and in situ conservation of threatened species must complement each other, and under which circumstances ART provide additional tools in the rescue of a threatened population, we elucidate the current situation here by using as examples three different megavertebrate families: elephantidae, rhinoceridae and giraffidae. These mammal families consist of charismatic species, and most of their members are currently facing dramatic declines in population numbers. On the basis of these and other examples, we highlight the importance of captive zoo and other managed wildlife populations for species survival in a human dominated world. Without the possibility to study reproductive physiology in trained or habituated captive individuals, major advances made in wildlife ART during the past 20 years would not have been possible. This paper reviews the benefits and future challenges of large mammal conservation breeding and examines the role of assisted reproduction in such efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imke Lueders
- GEOlifes Animal Fertility and Reproductive Research, 22457, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - W R Twink Allen
- Sharjah Equine Hospital, P.O. Box, 29858, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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15
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Williams CL, Caraballo-Rodríguez AM, Allaband C, Zarrinpar A, Knight R, Gauglitz JM. Wildlife-microbiome interactions and disease: exploring opportunities for disease mitigation across ecological scales. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ddmod.2019.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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