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Hess RA, Park CJ, Soto S, Reinacher L, Oh JE, Bunnell M, Ko CJ. Male animal sterilization: history, current practices, and potential methods for replacing castration. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1409386. [PMID: 39027909 PMCID: PMC11255590 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1409386] [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: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Sterilization and castration have been synonyms for thousands of years. Making an animal sterile meant to render them incapable of producing offspring. Castration or the physical removal of the testes was discovered to be the most simple but reliable method for managing reproduction and sexual behavior in the male. Today, there continues to be global utilization of castration in domestic animals. More than six hundred million pigs are castrated every year, and surgical removal of testes in dogs and cats is a routine practice in veterinary medicine. However, modern biological research has extended the meaning of sterilization to include methods that spare testis removal and involve a variety of options, from chemical castration and immunocastration to various methods of vasectomy. This review begins with the history of sterilization, showing a direct link between its practice in man and animals. Then, it traces the evolution of concepts for inducing sterility, where research has overlapped with basic studies of reproductive hormones and the discovery of testicular toxicants, some of which serve as sterilizing agents in rodent pests. Finally, the most recent efforts to use the immune system and gene editing to block hormonal stimulation of testis function are discussed. As we respond to the crisis of animal overpopulation and strive for better animal welfare, these novel methods provide optimism for replacing surgical castration in some species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rex A. Hess
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
- Epivara, Inc, Champaign, IL, United States
| | - Chan Jin Park
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
- Epivara, Inc, Champaign, IL, United States
| | | | | | - Ji-Eun Oh
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Mary Bunnell
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - CheMyong J. Ko
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
- Epivara, Inc, Champaign, IL, United States
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Karadağ MA, Schäfer-Somi S, Demir MC, Kuru M, Aslan S, Kaya D. Short-term clinical and hormonal effects of a deslorelin implant on late-prepubertal bitches - Based on flare-up signs. Theriogenology 2023; 209:162-169. [PMID: 37393746 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.06.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists offer an alternative to surgical sterilization in prepubertal dogs, preserving ovarian and uterine functions. However, the clinical and hormonal effects of GnRH agonist application during the late-prepubertal stage remain insufficiently understood. This study aimed to investigate the clinical effect (flare-up) and hormonal changes, specifically serum progesterone (P4) and estradiol (E2) levels, in bitches treated with 4.7 mg deslorelin acetate (DA) implants (Suprelorin®, Virbac, F) during the late prepubertal period. Sixteen clinically healthy kangal cross-breed bitches, aged 7-8 months, with a mean body weight of 20.5 ± 0.8 kg, were implanted with DA. Estrus signs were monitored daily, and blood and vaginal cytological samples were collected every other day for four weeks. Cytological changes were analyzed for overall and superficial cell index. Six out of sixteen DA-treated bitches (EST group; n = 6) exhibited clinical proestrus 8.6 ± 0.6 days after implant insertion. The mean serum concentrations of P4 and E2 at the onset of estrus were 1.38 ± 0.32 ng/ml and 37.38 ± 10.07 pg/ml, respectively. Notably, all non-estrus (N-EST group; n = 10) bitches demonstrated an increase in superficial cell index, in addition to expected cytological changes observed in the EST group. On the 18th day post-implantation, the EST group exhibited a significantly higher number of superficial cells compared to the N-EST group (p < 0.001). DA implantation resulted in cytological profile alterations accompanied by a slight increase in estrogen concentrations in all dogs. However, the flare-up response exhibited significant variability, differing from that observed in adult dogs. This study highlights the importance of meticulous timing and breed-specific considerations when utilizing DA for puberty manipulation in late-prepubertal bitches. The observed cytological and hormonal changes in response to DA implants provide valuable insights, but the variability in flare-up responses warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Karadağ
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, 36100, Kars, Türkiye
| | - S Schäfer-Somi
- Platform for Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Vetmeduni Vienna, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - M C Demir
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, 36100, Kars, Türkiye
| | - M Kuru
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, 36100, Kars, Türkiye
| | - S Aslan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Near East University, 99138, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - D Kaya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, 36100, Kars, Türkiye.
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Gontier A, Youala M, Fontaine C, Raibon E, Fournel S, Briantais P, Rigaut D. Efficacy and Safety of 4.7 mg Deslorelin Acetate Implants in Suppressing Oestrus Cycle in Prepubertal Female Dogs. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12243504. [PMID: 36552424 PMCID: PMC9774346 DOI: 10.3390/ani12243504] [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: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Our multicentric, masked, controlled and randomised study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of Suprelorin® 4.7 mg (Virbac, Carros, France) regarding oestrus prevention in prepubertal intact bitches. Twelve- to eighteen-week-old females (n = 83) were allocated either a deslorelin implant (n = 62) or 0.9% sodium chloride (n = 21) group. Clinical assessment (heat signs), 17β oestradiol and progesterone assays, and vaginal cytology were performed at day (D)0, D7, D21, month (M)3 and M6 after product administration, and were then performed every other month until reaching puberty. Trained owners assessed heat signs between each veterinary visit. All bitches (n = 83) reached puberty before M30. Deslorelin significantly extended the median time to sexual maturity when compared to the control group (377 days versus 217 days after D0, p < 0.0001). Three females, implanted between 16 and 18 weeks of age, expressed an induced oestrus. Additional descriptive data, collected over a 24 month-period, showed functional reproductive abilities in both deslorelin (n = 52) and control (n = 21) groups once puberty was achieved. In conclusion, Suprelorin® 4.7 mg seems to be an effective and safe option for postponing the onset of oestrus when administered to prepubertal female dogs aged from 12 to 16 weeks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aymeric Gontier
- Research & Development, Licensing, Virbac, 06511 Carros, France
| | - Myriam Youala
- Research & Development, Licensing, Virbac, 06511 Carros, France
| | | | - Elsa Raibon
- Global Marketing & Market Development, Virbac, 06511 Carros, France
- Correspondence:
| | | | | | - Delphine Rigaut
- Research & Development, Licensing, Virbac, 06511 Carros, France
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Schäfer-Somi S, Kaya D, Aslan S. Prepubertal Use of Long-Term GnRH Agonists in Dogs: Current Knowledge and Recommendations. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12172267. [PMID: 36077986 PMCID: PMC9454922 DOI: 10.3390/ani12172267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The search for an alternative approach of estrus control (induction or suppression) in dogs is an important issue and the use of slow GnRH agonist-releasing implants has been the subject of frequent research in recent years. Studies to date demonstrate that the short- and long-term effects of deslorelin implants applicated at different time points of the prepubertal period are similar to those of adult dogs; however, there are important differences. The age of the prepubertal bitch and the dosage appear to be the main determinants of the response to deslorelin, as well as the individual metabolism of the bitch. Recent studies reported that the deslorelin-mediated long-term delay of puberty does not have negative carry-over effects on subsequent ovarian functionality, serum steroid hormone concentrations, uterine health, and fertility; however, more molecular studies are needed to determine the effects of application time of GnRH agonists on hormone concentrations and peripheral receptor expression. Furthermore, the long-term effects of delay of puberty with deslorelin on joint health, tumor development, the immune system, and social behavior deserve further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Schäfer-Somi
- Platform for Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Vetmeduni Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria
- Correspondence:
| | - Duygu Kaya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Kafkas, 36100 Kars, Turkey
| | - Selim Aslan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Veterinary Faculty, Near East University, 99138 Nicosia, Cyprus
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Barczyński B, Frąszczak K, Wertel I, Zakrzewska E, Zdunek M, Szumiło J, Kotarski J. Immunohistochemical Expression of LHRH Receptor in Different Compartments of Female Genital Tract in Patients With Endometrial Cancer. Appl Immunohistochem Mol Morphol 2022; 30:509-516. [PMID: 35777983 DOI: 10.1097/pai.0000000000001046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone receptor (LHRHR) expression has been reported in various cancers, including endometrial neoplasms. Thus, LHRHR provides a potential point for therapeutic approach using LHRH analogs as carrier molecules for chemotherapeutic agents in this cancer population. However, clinical data did not prove any potential benefits for patients. We decided to assess LHRHR expression in patients with endometrial cancer to explain possible lack of efficacy in previous clinical reports. LHRHR expression was assessed immunohistochemically in different anatomic and histogenetic compartments of female genital tract of patients with endometrial cancer. The study sample consisted of paraffin tissue blocks obtained from patients who has undergone primary surgery owing to endometrial cancer. Strong LHRHR expression was found in endometrial cancer, fallopian tube, and concurrent atypical hyperplasia. Interestingly, LHRHR expression showed significant differences depending on the respective compartment of the ovary analyzed. Level of LHRHR expression in patients with primary advanced and unresectable disease, particularly in certain ovarian compartments may be substantially lower, which may influence the use of new targeted therapy regimens. The studies on secondary Müllerian system compartment and its hormonal receptor status may be crucial to understand mechanisms of lack of efficacy of LHRH hybrid molecules anti-cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Iwona Wertel
- First Department of Oncological Gynaecology and Gynaecology
- Independent Laboratory of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, First Department of Oncological Gynaecology and Gynaecology
| | | | - Małgorzata Zdunek
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Medical University in Lublin
| | - Justyna Szumiło
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Medical University in Lublin
| | - Jan Kotarski
- First Department of Oncological Gynaecology and Gynaecology
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Schäfer-Somi S, Kaya D, Sözmen M, Kaya S, Aslan S. Pre-pubertal treatment with a GnRH agonist in bitches-Effect on the uterus and hormone receptor expression. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 53 Suppl 3:103-109. [PMID: 30474335 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Aim of the study was to examine the effect of deslorelin on uterine tissues of eleven pre-pubertal bitches aged 4.2 ± 0.6 m. Implants containing placebo (sodium chloride 0.9%; n = 4, G I), 4.7 mg (n = 3, GII) or 9.4 mg (n = 4, GIII) deslorelin acetate (Suprelorin® ; Virbac, France), were administered subcutaneously. Signs of oestrus, vaginal cytology, serum progesterone (P4) and estradiol-17β (E2) concentrations were monitored until the occurrence of oestrus. Bitches were ovariohysterectomized and sections from the uterine tissue were subjected to immunohistochemistry (IHC) for detection of GnRH receptor (R), Kisspeptin (KP)10, Kisspeptin receptor (GPR54), androgen receptor (AR), oestrogen receptor (ER) α,β, and progesterone receptor (PR). Tissue sections were scored semi-quantitatively using an immunoreactivity score (IRS) ranging from 0 to 300 (3). Since some animals were ovariohysterectomized before puberty (n = 1 from GII and n = 2 from GIII), and some in metestrus (all controls and 2 from GII and GIII each), results from these animals were separately evaluated and compared to the controls. Results: No abnormalities were seen in uterine tissues. Kisspeptin 10 expression was low in all cell types, highest IRS were seen in the vascular endothelial cells. The GPR54 was mainly detected in the luminal epithelial cells, superficial and deep uterine glands. The expression of GPR54 and ERα,β was especially high in bitches operated prepubertally. No difference was observed between the controls and experimental bitches operated in their first metestrus. The PR and ERα,β were exclusively expressed in superficial and deep uterine glands and luminal surface epithelial cells. The AR and GnRH-R expression was negative in all cells of all groups. We conclude that application of 4.7 or 9.4 mg deslorelin at the age of 4 months did not cause uterine disturbances. GPR54 expression might be influenced by pre-pubertal deslorelin treatment or the changings related to approaching puberty; the latter is supposed in case of ERα,β.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Schäfer-Somi
- Platform for Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Vetmeduni Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Duygu Kaya
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kafkas, Kars, Turkey
| | - Mahmut Sözmen
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Pathology, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Semra Kaya
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kafkas, Kars, Turkey
| | - Selim Aslan
- Veterinary Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Near East University, Nicosia, Turkey
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Faya M, Marchetti C, Priotto M, Grisolía M, D'Francisco F, Gobello C. Postponement of canine puberty by neonatal administration of a long term release GnRH superagonist. Theriogenology 2018; 118:190-195. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.05.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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