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Posastiuc FP, Rizzoto G, Constantin NT, Nicolae G, Chiers K, Diaconescu AI, Șerban AI, Van Soom A, Codreanu MD. Anti-Müllerian hormone as a diagnostic marker for testicular degeneration in dogs: insights from cryptorchid models. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1481248. [PMID: 39439823 PMCID: PMC11493918 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1481248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 09/24/2024] [Indexed: 10/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The increasing prevalence of infertility in male dogs in clinical practice mirrors current trends seen in human medicine. Acquired infertility is notably more common in dogs compared to congenital causes, with conditions such as testicular degeneration leading to irreversible loss of fertility. Current diagnostic methods for testicular degeneration, such as histopathological and cytological examinations, rely on testicular biopsy or fine needle aspiration, making them less feasible for routine use. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), produced by Sertoli cells, has emerged as a potential alternative biomarker for testicular health, which can be measured in serum. This study evaluates AMH as a potential marker for testicular degeneration, using cryptorchid dogs as models for impaired fertility and altered testicular histology. Methods The relationship between serum AMH levels and AMH tissue expression with impaired spermatogenesis and altered histology was investigated. Serum AMH levels were determined in intact, cryptorchid, and castrated individuals using an immuno-enzymatic ELISA kit and compared between subgroups based on testicular location. Tissue AMH immuno-expression was differentially quantified in two regions of interest (ROIs), the interstitial space and the seminiferous tubule, in both descended and retained gonads. Furthermore, testicles were analyzed using histomorphometric analysis in seminiferous tubules, while spermatogenesis was evaluated using the Johnsen score. Results Serum AMH levels were positively correlated with AMH expression assessed in both interstitial space (ρ = 0.494, p ≤ 0.01) and seminiferous tubules (ρ = 0.610, p ≤ 0.001). Conversely, serum AMH levels showed a negative correlation with the seminiferous tubule area (ρ = -0.435, p ≤ 0.05). Smaller seminiferous tubule areas were linked to increased AMH reactivity in both seminiferous tubules (ρ = -0.774, p ≤ 0.001) and interstitial space (ρ = -0.725, p ≤ 0.001). Additionally, lower Johnsen scores were associated with higher serum AMH levels (ρ = -0.537, p ≤ 0.01) and elevated AMH expression in both seminiferous tubules (ρ = -0.756, p ≤ 0.001) and interstitial space (ρ = -0.679, p ≤ 0.001). Discussion Our results suggest that higher serum levels and tissue expression of AMH are linked to smaller seminiferous tubules and poorer Johnsen scores, reflecting degenerative changes and Sertoli cell dysfunction in retained testicles. Given the similarities in the mechanisms that increase AMH levels in both cryptorchid and non-cryptorchid testicles affected by testicular degeneration, this study recommends using AMH as a marker for diagnosing testicular degeneration in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florin Petrișor Posastiuc
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
- Department of Clinical Sciences II, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Guilherme Rizzoto
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Nicolae Tiberiu Constantin
- Department of Clinical Sciences II, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - George Nicolae
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Koen Chiers
- Department of Pathobiology, Pharmacology and Zoological Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Alexandru Ilie Diaconescu
- Department of Clinical Sciences II, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andreea Iren Șerban
- Department of Preclinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ann Van Soom
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Mario Darius Codreanu
- Department of Clinical Sciences II, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
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Chumsri S, Suwimonteerabutr J, Sirisawadi S, Thongphakdee A, Holst BS, Chatdarong K. Serum anti-Müllerian hormone is an indirect predictor of ovarian reserve in domestic cats. Theriogenology 2024; 226:151-157. [PMID: 38901214 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.06.013] [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: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) serves as an indirect marker for predicting primordial follicles that are representative of ovarian reserve. In this study the possibility of using AMH and age to predict the ovarian reserve in domestic cats. Ovaries and blood were collected from 30 cats undergoing routine ovariohysterectomy. The animals were divided into three age groups: prepubertal (<4 mo, n = 10), adult (1-5 y, n = 10), and senior (>5 y, n = 10). Blood was collected at surgery for serum AMH measurements using the AMH Gen II ELISA kit. The intra-assay coefficient of variation (CV) and inter-assay CV were 3.56 % and 7.68 %, respectively. One side of the ovary was processed to determine AMH localization using immunohistochemistry and for a histological count of follicles, which is the gold standard. The expression of AMH protein was quantified from the contralateral ovary by Western blot analysis. Primordial follicles exhibited the most pronounced inverse relationship with age (rho = -0.779, P < 0.05), followed by a positive association with serum AMH concentration (rho = 0.490, P < 0.05), indicating that both age and AMH are potential markers indicative of primordial follicles. Furthermore, secondary (rho = 0.651, P < 0.05) and small antral follicles (rho = 0.648, P < 0.05) were identified as the major sources of circulating AMH, as indicated by the stronger correlation with serum AMH concentrations compared with primary follicles. However, there was no significant correlation between the expression of AMH protein and other factors, including age, primordial follicles, primary follicles, secondary follicles, small antral follicles, and serum AMH concentration. A model for predicting primordial follicle number using serum AMH concentration (AIC = 672.66, P < 0.05) and age (AIC = 668.93, P < 0.05) was established. In conclusion, both serum AMH concentration and age may serve as comparable markers of ovarian reserve in domestic cats. Moreover, AMH is particularly useful in situations where age information is not available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sittat Chumsri
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Junpen Suwimonteerabutr
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Sujin Sirisawadi
- Unit of Biochemistry, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Ampika Thongphakdee
- Conservation and Research Institute, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand Under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the King, Bangkok 10300, Thailand
| | - Bodil Ström Holst
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Swedish University of Agricultural Science, Uppsala 75007, Sweden
| | - Kaywalee Chatdarong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.
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Alexander T, Flock U, Klein R, Reese S, Meyer-Lindenberg A, Walter B. Physiological Anti-Müllerian Hormone Concentrations in Male and Female Dogs and Cats before and around Puberty. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2561. [PMID: 39272346 PMCID: PMC11394462 DOI: 10.3390/ani14172561] [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: 07/11/2024] [Revised: 08/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years several studies established the diagnostic value of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in companion animals. However, less is known about physiological AMH concentrations in young individuals highlighting the necessity to apply the diagnostic findings to this group. The aim of this study was to determine the AMH values of healthy male and female dogs between the age of 8 and 48 weeks, tomcats under 8 weeks and up to 48 weeks of age and queens between 2 to 12 weeks of age. In total, 96 blood samples were collected. Anti-Müllerian hormone was measured in all samples and testosterone was measured in the oldest age group of the males in both species. The hormones were analyzed using a human based chemiluminescence immune assay. Overall, AMH concentrations were higher in males than in females (p < 0.001). According to the AMH concentration there was no difference in males, but queens had significant higher AMH concentrations than bitches (p < 0.001). AMH remained high in males up to week 24 and decreased significantly thereafter (tomcats: p = 0.015; male dogs: p = 0.013), which correlated with an increase in testosterone levels for male dogs only. In bitches, AMH remained below the detection limit until the week 16 and slightly increased subsequently. In queens, AMH was detectable from the beginning with a significant increase in the older age group (p = 0.003). Half of the cats in the older age group even approached the chemiluminescence immune assay's upper limit. The results show that female cats secrete AMH much earlier than female dogs in which AMH secretion begins just shortly before the start of the puberty. In the male animals, the decrease in AMH concentration around puberty was similar in dogs and cats, but a correlation with the increase of testosterone was only observed in dogs. Further research is required to determine the origin of the high AMH concentrations in female kittens and the lack of correlation between testosterone and AMH concentrations in male kittens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Alexander
- Clinic of Small Animal Surgery and Reproduction, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Veterinaerstr. 13, 80539 Munich, Germany
| | - Ulrike Flock
- Clinic of Small Animal Surgery and Reproduction, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Veterinaerstr. 13, 80539 Munich, Germany
| | - Ruth Klein
- Laboklin GmbH & Co.KG, Steubenstr. 4, 97688 Bad Kissingen, Germany
| | - Sven Reese
- Chair of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Veterinaerstr. 13, 80539 Munich, Germany
| | - Andrea Meyer-Lindenberg
- Clinic of Small Animal Surgery and Reproduction, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Veterinaerstr. 13, 80539 Munich, Germany
| | - Beate Walter
- Small Animals Clinic, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Veterinaerstr. 13, 80539 Munich, Germany
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Kaya S, Koral Taşcı S, Demir MC, Karadağ MA, Kumcu MS, Kaçar C, Ermutlu DG, Kuru M. Determination of anti-Müllerian hormone levels in blood and urine in fertile cats. Theriogenology 2024; 224:102-106. [PMID: 38761666 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.05.016] [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: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, blood anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels have been investigated in female animals to diagnose many conditions, such as the presence of ovarian tissue, follicle reserve, and granulosa cell tumors. Since blood collection is an invasive method, diagnosis with a non-invasive method is important in terms of practicality and animal welfare. This study aimed to investigate the presence of AMH in cat urine and determine whether a correlation exists between blood and urine AMH levels. In addition, it was aimed at revealing whether there was a change in blood and urine AMH levels according to ovarian follicle distribution. Twenty-seven healthy, fertile female cats in the follicular phase were included. Following blood and urine sample collection, a routine ovariohysterectomy was performed. Histological analysis of the removed ovarian tissue was used to determine ovarian follicle types. While both AMH and estrogen levels were determined in blood samples, only AMH levels were investigated in urine samples. Blood AMH levels averaged 10.61 ± 0.75 ng/mL (range: 5-16 ng/mL), while urine AMH levels averaged 5.67 ± 0.91 ng/mL (range: 0.2-13 ng/mL). While urinary AMH level was <1 ng/mL in 7 cats, urinary AMH was >1 ng/mL in all remaining cats. While the study demonstrated AMH excretion in urine, no correlation was found between blood and urine AMH values. However, a significant positive correlation was observed between blood AMH levels and serum estrogen levels (P < 0.001). These findings suggest that urinary AMH may be a product of proteolytic degradation, potentially leading to inaccurate estimations of ovarian activity based solely on urine AMH levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Semra Kaya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Türkiye.
| | - Serap Koral Taşcı
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Türkiye
| | - Murat Can Demir
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Türkiye
| | - Muhammet Ali Karadağ
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Türkiye
| | - Merve Sena Kumcu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Türkiye
| | - Cihan Kaçar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Türkiye
| | - Dilem Gülece Ermutlu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Türkiye
| | - Mushap Kuru
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Türkiye
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Balogh O, Szilágyi E, Balogh N, Somogyi Z, Müller L. Half-life of serum anti-Müllerian hormone and changes after gonadectomy in adult female and male dogs with normal and abnormal gonads. Theriogenology 2024; 217:18-24. [PMID: 38237213 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a biomarker for the presence of gonadal tissue. Changes in serum AMH after gonadectomy are not well established, and its serum half-life is unknown in dogs. We measured serum AMH with a validated electro-chemiluminescent immunoassay in adult female (n = 12) and male (n = 7) dogs with normal gonads, as well as in dogs with gonadal pathology (ovarian remnant syndrome, ORS n = 3, testicular tumor [Leydig cell, Sertoli cell, seminoma] n = 3, unilateral abdominal cryptorchid n = 4) on the day of gonadectomy (D0), and on D3, D7, D14 (females and males), and D21, D28 (males only). Males had higher AMH concentrations than females independent of gonadal status (P < 0.001). Dogs with ORS had lower initial AMH (0.45 ± 0.43 ng/ml) than bitches with normal gonads (1.16 ± 0.44 ng/ml; P = 0.027). Cryptorchid dogs had higher initial concentrations (80.57 ± 52.81 ng/ml) than males with normal gonads (7.92 ± 2.45 ng/ml; P = 0.004), and those with testicular tumors (18.63 ± 5.04 ng/ml) were intermediate (P ≥ 0.250). AMH decreased over time (P ≤ 0.012) and was 0.01-0.04 ng/ml by D14 in females and 0.02-0.12 ng/ml by D28 in males. Serum half-life in the whole study population was 2.85 ± 0.51 days and did not differ between groups. In conclusion, serum AMH can differentiate between intact and gonadectomized status of adult dogs by 14 days after ovario(hyster)ectomy in females and by 28 days after surgical castration in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orsolya Balogh
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, USA
| | - Eszter Szilágyi
- Department of Obstetrics and Food Animal Medicine Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - Zoltán Somogyi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, Hungary
| | - Linda Müller
- Department of Obstetrics and Food Animal Medicine Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, Hungary; ATRC Aurigon Ltd., Dunakeszi, Hungary.
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Claaßen S, Aurich J, Walter I, Gautier C, Aurich C. Abundance of Anti-Muellerian hormone in cat ovaries and correlation of its plasma concentration with animal age, weight and stage of the estrous cycle. Theriogenology 2023; 212:30-36. [PMID: 37689028 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.08.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
In female animals of different species, Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is produced by follicular granulosa cells and has been associated with the ovarian follicle pool. Because concentration of AMH in plasma of ovary-intact female cats is apparently more variable than previously assumed, we have analysed AMH concentration in blood of cats (n = 93) presented for routine ovariectomy and assessed ovarian histology and AMH protein expression in the surgically removed ovaries. We hypothesised that AMH is synthesized only in preantral and small antral follicles and that plasma AMH concentration reflects the antral follicle count (AFC). Corpora lutea were detected in 35% of the female cats, whereas plasma progesterone concentration was ≥1 ng/mL in 57% of the cats. Follicular cysts were present in 15 cats (16%). Positive immunostaining for AMH protein was detected in close to all primordial and antral follicles, ovarian cysts, 70% of corpora lutea and 28% of atretic follicles. Concentration of AMH in plasma averaged 6.8 ± 0.5 ng/mL (range 1.3-21.7 ng/mL). The AFC increased with increasing AMH concentration with a moderate positive correlation between AFC and AMH (r = 0.286, p < 0.01). Plasma AMH concentration was not affected by season or cats' age, weight, stage of the estrous cycle and presence of follicular cysts. In conclusion, AMH protein is expressed in all endocrine structures of the cat ovary. While AMH is a marker for the presence of ovarian tissue, its usefulness to assess ovarian function in individual female cats is of limited value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svenja Claaßen
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jörg Aurich
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Andrology, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ingrid Walter
- VetCore Facility for Research/VetBiobank, Vetmeduni Vienna, 1210, Vienna, Austria; Institute of Morphology, Vetmeduni Vienna, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Camille Gautier
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christine Aurich
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, 1210, Vienna, Austria.
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Candiani D, Drewe J, Forkman B, Herskin MS, Van Soom A, Aboagye G, Ashe S, Mountricha M, Van der Stede Y, Fabris C. Scientific and technical assistance on welfare aspects related to housing and health of cats and dogs in commercial breeding establishments. EFSA J 2023; 21:e08213. [PMID: 37719917 PMCID: PMC10500269 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2023.8213] [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] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
This Scientific Report addresses a mandate from the European Commission according to Article 31 of Regulation (EC) No 178/2002 on the welfare of cats and dogs in commercial breeding establishments kept for sport, hunting and companion purposes. The aim was to scrutinise recent recommendations made by the EU Platform on Animal Welfare Voluntary Initiative on measures to assist the preparation of policy options for the legal framework of commercial breeding of cats and dogs. Specifically, the main question addressed was if there is scientific evidence to support the measures for protection of cats and dogs in commercial breeding related to housing, health considerations and painful procedures. Three judgements were carried out based on scientific literature reviews and, where possible a review of national regulations. The first judgement addressed housing and included: type of accommodation, outdoor access, exercise, social behaviour, housing temperature and light requirements. The second judgement addressed health and included: age at first and last breeding, and breeding frequency. Judgement 3 addressed painful procedures (mutilations or convenience surgeries) and included: ear cropping, tail docking and vocal cord resections in dogs and declawing in cats. For each of these judgements, considerations were provided indicating where scientific literature is available to support recommendations on providing or avoiding specific housing, health or painful surgical interventions. Areas where evidence is lacking are indicated.
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Walter B. [Diagnostic utility of the anti-Mullerian hormone in companion animals]. TIERARZTLICHE PRAXIS. AUSGABE K, KLEINTIERE/HEIMTIERE 2023; 51:252-257. [PMID: 37820616 DOI: 10.1055/a-2146-6645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
The anti-Mullerian hormone is a glycoprotein secreted by Sertoli cells in males and granulosa cells in females. The initial identification of this hormone in canine and feline serum was achieved in 2011. Meanwhile, a variety of studies have demonstrated its clinical significance as a tool in the endocrine diagnosis. This review summarizes the current knowledge about anti-Mullerian hormone in small animal reproduction and describes future opportunities for its diagnostic usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beate Walter
- Chirurgische und Gynäkologische Kleintierklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
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Lapuente C, Faya M, Blanco PG, Grisolia-Romero M, Marchetti C, Gobello C. Anti-Müllerian hormone in queens: Serum concentrations and total ovarian follicle population. Theriogenology 2023; 197:111-115. [PMID: 36495634 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.11.033] [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: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The objectives of this study were: a) To report anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) serum concentrations in neonatal, pre and postpubertal female cats. b) To establish the relationship between serum AMH with either age and estrous cycle c) To correlate the total number of different ovarian follicle types with AMH in adult queens. A single blood sample was collected from 10 neonates (including 5 male), 15 prepubertal and 48 postpubertal female cats to measure AMH. Eight, 10, and 18 of this latter group were in follicular (FP), luteal phase (LP), and anestrus (AN), respectively. The total number of each follicle type was histologically counted using the Gougeon and Chainy (1987) formula in a subgroup of 10 adult queens. Overall AMH mean of these the female cats was 6.31 ± 0.54 ng/mL. The neonatal females had lower AMH serum concentrations than their male littermates (2.56 ± 0.49 vs. >23 ng/mL; P < 0.01). Concentrations were also higher in prepubertal than in neonatal and postpubertal cats (11.79 ± 1.36 vs. 2.56 ± 0.49 vs. 4.87 ± 0.38 ng/mL; P < 0.01). Queens below 12 mo of age had the highest AMH levels (10.41 ± 1.16; P < 0.01). Age was inversely correlated with AMH (r = -0.5; P < 0.01). Animals in FP had lower AMH concentrations than AN females (2.51 ± 0.33 vs. 5.46 ± 0.76 ng/mL; P < 0.05). No difference in the total number of each follicle type were found between either ovary (P > 0.05). A high correlation was only found between small antral follicles and AMH concentrations (r = 0.85; P < 0.01). It was concluded, that AMH can provide an indirect, reliable marker for the assessment of ovarian follicle size and functionality. Age as well as pubertal state should be considered when evaluating AMH concentrations in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Lapuente
- Center of Reproductive Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, National University of La Plata, Argentina; CONICET, Argentina
| | - M Faya
- Catholic University of Cordoba, Argentina; CONICET, Argentina
| | - P G Blanco
- Center of Reproductive Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, National University of La Plata, Argentina; CONICET, Argentina
| | - M Grisolia-Romero
- Center of Reproductive Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, National University of La Plata, Argentina; Catholic University of Cordoba, Argentina; CONICET, Argentina
| | - C Marchetti
- Center of Reproductive Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, National University of La Plata, Argentina; Catholic University of Cordoba, Argentina; CONICET, Argentina
| | - C Gobello
- Center of Reproductive Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, National University of La Plata, Argentina; CONICET, Argentina.
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Chotimanukul S, Goericke-Pesch S, Suwimonteerabutr J, Singlor J, Sangkrachang E, Tummaruk P, Ponglowhapan S. Serum Anti-Müllerian Hormone Levels and Estrous Monitoring of GnRH Agonist Deslorelin-Induced Estrus in Bitches: A Pilot Study. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13020258. [PMID: 36670799 PMCID: PMC9855037 DOI: 10.3390/ani13020258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
This study was performed to monitor estrous patterns and, more importantly, changes in anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) concentrations during the peri-ovulatory period in deslorelin-induced estrous bitches. Healthy anestrous bitches (n = 4) were used. Estrus and ovulation were monitored after deslorelin implantation. Blood samples were collected for analysis of progesterone, estradiol-17ß and AMH concentrations before implantation (day 0) and on days 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 and 22 after implantation. Six days following treatment, all bitches showed estrus signs. Ovulation took place between days 12 and 15. Circulating AMH concentrations varied among bitches from 0.12 to 3.08 ng/mL. However, no significant differences in AMH levels (mean ± SD) were observed between day 0 and days following post-implantation (p > 0.05). There were no significant correlations between AMH and estradiol or AMH and progesterone (p > 0.05). Ultrasonographically, the number of clearly identifiable ovarian follicles was higher before ovulation and the area of ovaries increased after ovulation (p < 0.05). Except for AMH, changes in vaginal cytology, estradiol-17ß and progesterone levels observed in our study were similar to naturally occurring estrus. Large intra- and inter-individual variation in AMH were observed suggesting that AMH is currently not suitable as a canine fertility marker to monitor ovarian response to deslorelin treatment for estrus induction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sroisuda Chotimanukul
- Department of Obstetrics Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Research Unit for Obstetrics and Reproduction in Animals, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Sandra Goericke-Pesch
- Reproductive Unit, Clinic for Small Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Junpen Suwimonteerabutr
- Department of Obstetrics Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Jinda Singlor
- Department of Obstetrics Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Ekkaphot Sangkrachang
- Department of Obstetrics Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Padet Tummaruk
- Department of Obstetrics Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Suppawiwat Ponglowhapan
- Department of Obstetrics Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Research Unit for Obstetrics and Reproduction in Animals, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +66-(0)2218-9644
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11
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Evci EC, Aslan S, Schäfer-Somi S, Ergene O, Sayıner S, Darbaz I, Seyrek-İntaş K, Wehrend A. Monitoring of canine pregnancy by considering Anti-Mullerian hormone, C-reactive protein, progesterone and complete blood count in pregnant and non-pregnant dogs. Theriogenology 2023; 195:69-76. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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12
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Gültiken N, Yarim M, Aslan S, Gürler H, Yarim GF, Tuncay M, İnal S, Schäfer-Somi S. Expression of Anti-Müllerian Hormone and Its Type 2 Receptor in the Ovary of Pregnant and Cyclic Domestic Cats. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:877. [PMID: 35405866 PMCID: PMC8997022 DOI: 10.3390/ani12070877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
To evaluate the expression of AMH and its receptor AMHRII, ovaries of 33 p cats were investigated by western blot and immunohistochemistry. After ovariohysterectomy, the cats were grouped according to pregnancy stages and ovarian/placental endocrine activity: group I (n = 3, 24−29 days), II (n = 8, 32−40 days), III (n = 4, 41−46 days), IV (n = 6, 53−61 days) and according to cycle stages: V (n = 6, interestrus) and VI (n = 6, estrus). Serum progesterone- and AMH-concentration was measured. Follicle numbers did not differ between groups. The number of corpora lutea was higher in pregnant cats than in the non-pregnant cats. Serum AMH concentration was at maximum between day 30 and 50 of gestation, and was higher than in non-pregnant cats, then decreased towards term (p < 0.05). In the ovaries, AMH immunopositivity was observed in granulosa cells of secondary and antral follicles, and in interstitial cells of corpora lutea; highest percentage of immunopositive areas was detected in group III (p < 0.05). A positive correlation between the number of corpora lutea and the positive AMH signals in ovarian tissue was determined (r2 = 0.832, p < 0.05); however, only during mid-gestation (group II). Expression of AMHRII was in close co-localization with AMH and strong in the interstitial cells surrounding follicles undergoing atresia. AMHRII expression did not differ between pregnant groups but was higher compared to estrus cats (p ˂ 0.05). We conclude that AMH and AMHRII expression in the feline ovary is comparable to other species. The high serum AMH concentration and ovarian AMHRII expression between day 30 and 50 of gestation are probably related to ovarian activity and follicular atresia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nilgün Gültiken
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ondokuz Mayis, Samsun 55200, Turkey; (N.G.); (H.G.); (M.T.)
| | - Murat Yarim
- Department of Pathology, University of Ondokuz Mayis, Samsun 55200, Turkey; (M.Y.); (S.İ.)
| | - Selim Aslan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Near East University, Nicosia 99138, Cyprus;
| | - Hande Gürler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ondokuz Mayis, Samsun 55200, Turkey; (N.G.); (H.G.); (M.T.)
| | - Gul Fatma Yarim
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ondokuz Mayis, Samsun 55200, Turkey;
| | - Müge Tuncay
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ondokuz Mayis, Samsun 55200, Turkey; (N.G.); (H.G.); (M.T.)
| | - Sinem İnal
- Department of Pathology, University of Ondokuz Mayis, Samsun 55200, Turkey; (M.Y.); (S.İ.)
| | - Sabine Schäfer-Somi
- Platform for Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1210 Vienna, Austria
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Factors influencing parentage ratio in canine dual-sired litters. Theriogenology 2020; 158:24-30. [PMID: 32927197 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.08.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Breeding a bitch with two different sires during a single estrous cycle has the potential to facilitate rapid genetic gain and improve reproductive performance within a canine breeding colony. There is limited data regarding the factors that contribute to the success of dual-sired litters in domestic dogs, and only anecdotal evidence suggesting that these litters rarely produce offspring from more than one sire. The objective of this prospective clinical study was to investigate multiple factors that likely affect the success of dual-sired litters on whelping rate, litter size and parentage ratio. These factors include: timing of artificial insemination (AI), order of sires, number of AI's per cycle, semen type, sperm quality and age of sire and bitch. Data collected over a 10 year period from twenty-nine estrous cycles (28 individual bitches of 10 different breeds) were evaluated after an initial AI with frozen semen from the 'genetically desired' sire and followed up with a second AI with either fresh (n = 9) or frozen (n = 16) semen or natural mating (n = 4) from a different, 'back up', sire. DNA parentage of each pup born was determined by using a primary panel of 288 SNPs. The whelping rate and litter size from previous single sire inseminations per estrous cycle, in the same bitches, (n = 16) over 25 estrous cycles using either fresh (n = 4) or frozen-thawed (n = 21) semen, were analyzed as controls. Of the 29 dual-sired breedings, 26 bitches whelped (89.7%), and 8 litters (30.8%) were of mixed parentage. In the litters of mixed parentage after a dual-sired breeding, a greater proportion of the offspring were from the second sire than the first sire (73.0% and 27.0% respectively; P < 0.05). Interestingly, in litters where all pups were of single sire parentage after a dual-sired breeding, 50.0% of the offspring were by the first sire and 50.0% were by the second sire. For litters of mixed or single paternity produced by dual-sired breeding there was no difference in average litter size. However, on a per estrous cycle basis for each bitch the whelping rate (89.7% v. 76.0%.) and litter size (5.5 ± 2.5 v. 4.0 ± 2.78) of all dual-sired breedings were greater (P < 0.05) compared to previous single-sired breedings (controls) respectively. This study demonstrates that offspring of mixed parentage derived from dual-sired breedings may be achieved. Furthermore, insemination with semen from two different sires may increase the whelping rate and litter size, which is an important consideration when using genetically valuable, or older individuals with potentially reduced fertility.
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Walter B. Anti-Müllerian hormone in dogs and cats reproduction. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55 Suppl 2:26-31. [PMID: 32031297 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13603] [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: 09/08/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a glycoprotein secreted by Sertoli cells in males and granulosa cells in females. It has first been determined in blood serum of dogs and cats by Place et al. in 2011 with the use of a human-based ELISA test. Meanwhile, different immunoassays have been validated for AMH determination in animals and a variety of studies have demonstrated the clinical significance of AMH. This review summarizes the current knowledge about AMH in dogs and cats and describes future opportunities for its diagnostic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beate Walter
- Clinic of Small Animal Surgery and Reproduction at the Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
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15
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Bergman D, Larsson A, Hansson-Hamlin H, Ström Holst B. Investigation of interference from canine anti-mouse antibodies in hormone immunoassays. Vet Clin Pathol 2019; 48 Suppl 1:59-69. [PMID: 31318069 DOI: 10.1111/vcp.12764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Revised: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Canine anti-mouse antibodies are a potential source of immunoassay interference, but erroneous immunoassay results are not always easily identifiable. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a marker for the presence of gonads in dogs, but elevated AMH concentrations in neutered dogs could also be caused by antibody interference. For other assays, a discrepant result obtained after antibody precipitation might indicate antibody interference. OBJECTIVES We aimed to evaluate if canine anti-mouse antibodies are a source of erroneous results in the AMH assay and if antibody precipitation with polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a useful tool for detecting antibody interference in a variety of immunoassays used in the veterinary clinical laboratory. METHODS Twenty-nine positive and 25 negative samples for anti-mouse antibodies were analyzed for AMH, canine total thyroxine (TT4 ), canine thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and progesterone before and after treatment with PEG. Results that differed by more than four SDs from the intra-assay coefficients of variation were considered discrepant. Elevated AMH concentrations in neutered dogs with anti-mouse antibodies and no visible gonads present were considered evidence of interference. RESULTS Evidence of antibody interference was found in two samples analyzed for AMH. The presence of anti-mouse antibodies did not lead to a higher proportion of discrepant results after PEG treatment for any of the immunoassays. The overall incidence of discrepant results for healthy controls was very high (73%). CONCLUSIONS Canine anti-mouse antibodies are a source of erroneous AMH results. Antibody precipitation with PEG is not a useful tool for detecting interference caused by such antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Bergman
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anders Larsson
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Helene Hansson-Hamlin
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Bodil Ström Holst
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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Walter B, Feulner H, Otzdorff C, Klein R, Reese S, Meyer-Lindenberg A. Changes in anti-Müllerian hormone concentrations in bitches throughout the oestrous cycle. Theriogenology 2019; 127:114-119. [PMID: 30685686 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Revised: 12/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Studies in female dogs proved the measurement of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) as a diagnostic tool to distinguish ovarioectomized from intact females or to diagnose ovarian remnant syndrome. Furthermore, its usability to diagnose a granulosa cell tumour and predict litter size was also investigated in female dogs. Although serum AMH was previously shown to increase during the transition from anoestrus to pro-oestrus in dogs, changes in AMH concentration over the entire oestrous cycle have not yet been determined. The aim of this study was to investigate the secretion pattern of AMH throughout the oestrous cycle in non-pregnant bitches. As a preliminary step, we tested our assay by measuring AMH concentrations in serum samples of 19 intact bitches (10 in anoestrus, 3 in pro-oestrus, 3 in oestrus, 3 in metoestrus) and 19 spayed females of different age and breed. For the main study, 20 healthy female dogs were examined (10 Beagles, and 10 Labrador crossbreeds, body weight 10-28 kg, age 1-6 years) during a normal oestrous cycle. Serum samples were collected in late anoestrus, at several times during pro-oestrus and oestrus, as well as 28 days and 4.5 months after ovulation. Blood collection was combined with a gynaecological examination including progesterone measurement. Serum concentration of AMH was determined using a chemiluminescence immunoassay validated for dog serum. In the preliminary test, intact bitches in various stages of the oestrous cycle had significantly higher serum AMH levels (0.19-1.45 ng/ml) than spayed females (0.01-0.06 ng/ml, P < 0.001). In cycling Beagle and Labrador crossbreed bitches participating in our main study, AMH concentrations were between 0.09 and 2.65 ng/ml with higher AMH concentrations in Beagles but overall high inter-individual and intra-individual variation. The highest AMH values were reached in the last three weeks before the onset of heat until six days before ovulation, and the lowest AMH concentrations were recorded during preovulatory oestrus in 6, metoestrus in 7 or anoestrus in 7 dogs. Serum AMH concentrations increased significantly from late anoestrus up to six days before ovulation and decreased significantly over the last three days before ovulation. A further significant decrease occurred from the last days of oestrus to metoestrus and mid anoestrus. This study shows that the used AMH assay can clearly distinguish between intact and spayed females and that the serum AMH pattern over the oestrous cycle is similar in all bitches, but with high variation among the breeds and among and within bitches. These changes in the AMH concentration are a challenge in timing serum sample collection and interpreting AMH values in bitches. Further studies are necessary to emphasize the factors influencing the AMH concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beate Walter
- Clinic of Small Animal Surgery and Reproduction at the Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich, Veterinaerstr. 13, 80539, Munich, Germany.
| | - Hans Feulner
- Clinic of Small Animal Surgery and Reproduction at the Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich, Veterinaerstr. 13, 80539, Munich, Germany
| | - Christiane Otzdorff
- Clinic of Small Animal Surgery and Reproduction at the Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich, Veterinaerstr. 13, 80539, Munich, Germany
| | - Ruth Klein
- Laboklin GmbH & Co.KG, Steubenstr. 4, 97688, Bad Kissingen, Germany
| | - Sven Reese
- Chair of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich, Veterinaerstr. 13, 80539, Munich, Germany
| | - Andrea Meyer-Lindenberg
- Clinic of Small Animal Surgery and Reproduction at the Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich, Veterinaerstr. 13, 80539, Munich, Germany
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Hill JR, Wilkinson J, Mallyon J, Anderson ST. Low sensitivity of a test for anti-Mullerian hormone to assess presence of ovaries in prepubertal bitches. Aust Vet J 2018; 96:356-359. [DOI: 10.1111/avj.12735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/04/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- JR Hill
- School of Veterinary Science; University of Queensland; Gatton Campus 4343, Queensland Australia
| | - J Wilkinson
- School of Veterinary Science; University of Queensland; Gatton Campus 4343, Queensland Australia
| | - J Mallyon
- School of Veterinary Science; University of Queensland; Gatton Campus 4343, Queensland Australia
| | - ST Anderson
- School of Biomedical Science; University of Queensland; St Lucia, QLD Australia
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18
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Walter B, Coelfen A, Jäger K, Reese S, Meyer-Lindenberg A, Aupperle-Lellbach H. Anti-Muellerian hormone concentration in bitches with histopathologically diagnosed ovarian tumours and cysts. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 53:784-792. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.13171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- B Walter
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Clinic of Small Animal Surgery and Reproduction at the Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine; Ludwig-Maximilians-University; Munich Germany
| | - A Coelfen
- Laboklin GmbH & Co.KG; Bad Kissingen Germany
| | - K Jäger
- Laboklin GmbH & Co.KG; Bad Kissingen Germany
| | - S Reese
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Chair of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology; Department of Veterinary Sciences; Ludwig-Maximilians-University; Munich Germany
| | - A Meyer-Lindenberg
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Clinic of Small Animal Surgery and Reproduction at the Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine; Ludwig-Maximilians-University; Munich Germany
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Alm H, Holst BS. Identifying ovarian tissue in the bitch using anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) or luteinizing hormone (LH). Theriogenology 2017; 106:15-20. [PMID: 29028571 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.09.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2017] [Revised: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Reliable methods for determining whether or not a bitch has ovarian tissue present are needed for cases with unknown neutering status. Vaginal cytology consistent with heat is indicative of functional ovarian tissue. Other methods are required when the bitch is not presented in suspected heat. Progesterone can be analyzed during 2 months after suspected heat. During other stages, assays for the analyses of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) have been used. The AMH assay is expected to give detectable concentrations (positive) in bitches with ovarian tissue, and the LH assay should give negative results in intact bitches, except during the pre-ovulatory LH peak. The aim of the present study was to study the diagnostic efficiency for detecting ovarian tissue in bitches using an AMH assay developed for human samples, and a semi-quantitative rapid immune migration (RIM™) LH assay developed for use in dogs. An AMH concentration of ≥0.1 μg/L, and an LH concentration of ≤1 μg/L, was set as the cut-off for presence of ovarian tissue. Client or staff owned bitches were included (N = 125). There were 73 intact bitches that were classified as being in heat (N = 25); in luteal phase (N = 12); or in anestrus (N = 36), and 52 spayed bitches that showed no clinical signs of estrogen influence. In total 64 of the 73 intact bitches (88%) were correctly identified using AMH, and 70/73 (96%) intact bitches were correctly identified using the LH assay. Excluding bitches in heat, the corresponding figures were 42/48 (88%) for AMH and 48/48 (100%) for LH. Of the 52 spayed bitches, 51 (98%) were correctly identified using the AMH assay and 49 (94%) were correctly identified using the LH assay. In this population, the predictive value of a positive AMH for intact bitches was 98%, and of a negative AMH for spayed bitches was 85%. Excluding bitches in heat, the predictive value of a negative LH test for intact bitches was 94%, and the predictive value of a positive LH test for identifying spayed bitches was 100%. It was concluded that analyses of AMH and LH are useful for detecting ovarian tissue in bitches, but that low concentrations of AMH may be obtained in intact bitches, classifying them as spayed. For LH, bitches in suspected estrus should not be tested to avoid the pre-ovulatory LH-surge, that otherwise may cause intact bitches being incorrectly identified as spayed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helene Alm
- Tyresö Djurklinik, Öringevägen 1, SE-13549 Tyresö, Sweden; Anicura Regional Animal Hospital Bagarmossen, Ljusnevägen 17, 128 48 Bagarmossen, Sweden.
| | - Bodil S Holst
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7054, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden; Centre for Reproductive Biology in Uppsala (CRU), Box 7054, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden.
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20
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Pankhurst MW. A putative role for anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in optimising ovarian reserve expenditure. J Endocrinol 2017; 233:R1-R13. [PMID: 28130407 DOI: 10.1530/joe-16-0522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 01/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian ovary has a finite supply of oocytes, which are contained within primordial follicles where they are arrested in a dormant state. The number of primordial follicles in the ovary at puberty is highly variable between females of the same species. Females that enter puberty with a small ovarian reserve are at risk of a shorter reproductive lifespan, as their ovarian reserve is expected to be depleted faster. One of the roles of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is to inhibit primordial follicle activation, which slows the rate at which the ovarian reserve is depleted. A simple interpretation is that the function of AMH is to conserve ovarian reserve. However, the females with the lowest ovarian reserve and the greatest risk of early reserve depletion have the lowest levels of AMH. In contrast, AMH apparently strongly inhibits primordial follicle activation in females with ample ovarian reserve, for reasons that remain unexplained. The rate of primordial follicle activation determines the size of the developing follicle pool, which in turn, determines how many oocytes are available to be selected for ovulation. This review discusses the evidence that AMH regulates the size of the developing follicle pool by altering the rate of primordial follicle activation in a context-dependent manner. The expression patterns of AMH across life are also consistent with changing requirements for primordial follicle activation in the ageing ovary. A potential role of AMH in the fertility of ageing females is proposed herein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael W Pankhurst
- Department of AnatomySchool of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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