1
|
Gonçalves JD, Dias JH, Machado-Neves M, Vergani GB, Ahmadi B, Pereira Batista RIT, Souza-Fabjan JMG, Oliveira MEF, Bartlewski PM, da Fonseca JF. Transcervical uterine flushing and embryo transfer in sheep: Morphophysiological basis for approaches currently used, major challenges, potential improvements, and new directions (alas, including some old ideas). Reprod Biol 2024; 24:100920. [PMID: 38970979 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2024.100920] [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: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
At present, the success of non-surgical embryo recovery (NSER) and transfer (NSET) hinges upon the cervical passage of catheters, but penetration of the uterine cervix in ewes is problematic due to its anatomical structure (i.e., long and narrow cervical lumen with misaligned folds and rings). It is a major obstacle limiting the widespread application of NSER and NSET in sheep. While initial attempts to traverse the uterine cervix focused on adapting or re-designing insemination catheters, more recent studies demonstrated that cervical relaxation protocols were instrumental for transcervical penetration in the ewe. An application of such protocols more than tripled cervical penetration rates (currently at 90-95 %) in sheep of different breeds (e.g., Dorper, Lacaune, Santa Inês, crossbred, and indigenous Brazilian breeds) and ages/parity. There is now sufficient evidence to suggest that even repeatedly performed cervical passages do not adversely affect overall health and reproductive function of ewes. Despite these improvements, appropriate selection of donors and recipients remains one of the most important requirements for maintaining high success rates of NSER and NSET, respectively. Non-surgical ovine embryo recovery has gradually become a commercially viable method as even though the procedure still cannot be performed by untrained individuals, it is inexpensive, yields satisfactory results, and complies with current public expectations of animal welfare standards. This article reviews critical morphophysiological aspects of transcervical embryo flushing and transfer, and the prospect of both techniques to replace surgical methods for multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET) programs in sheep. We have also discussed some potential pharmacological and technical developments in the field of non-invasive embryo recovery and deposition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joedson Dantas Gonçalves
- Department of Pathology, Reproduction and One Health, School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University, Via de acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, CEP 14884-900 Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Jenniffer Hauschildt Dias
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Viçosa, Av. Peter Henry Rolfs, s/n, CEP 36570-000 Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - Mariana Machado-Neves
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Viçosa, Av. Peter Henry Rolfs, s/n, CEP 36570-000 Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Brun Vergani
- Department of Pathology, Reproduction and One Health, School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University, Via de acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, CEP 14884-900 Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Bahareh Ahmadi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | | | | | - Maria Emilia Franco Oliveira
- Department of Pathology, Reproduction and One Health, School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University, Via de acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, CEP 14884-900 Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Pawel Mieczyslaw Bartlewski
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Batista RITP, Dias JH, Gonçalves JD, Vergani GB, Oliveira MEF, Souza-Fabjan JMG, Fonseca JF. The presence of estradiol benzoate in the cervical relaxation treatment for non-surgical embryo collection does not impair embryonic morphological quality, cryosurvival, and gene expression profile. Theriogenology 2024; 218:208-213. [PMID: 38335708 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.01.038] [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: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Non-surgical embryo recovery (NSER) is usually preceded by a cervical relaxation in ovine donors, based on estradiol benzoate (EB), prostaglandin (PGF), and oxytocin (OT). However, it is hypothesized that, due to poorly understood mechanisms, EB can result in embryotoxic actions. To evaluate this, 20 min before NSER superovulated sheep were induced to cervical relaxation with 0.0 (G0.0), 0.5 (G0.5), or 1.0 mg (G1.0) of EB associated with 37.5 μg of PGF 16 h before NSER and 50 IU of OT. In doing so, the efficiency and duration of the NSER procedure showed no compromise (P > 0.05). Additionally, the presence of EB did not affect (P > 0.05) the embryo's morphological quality, the development dynamics, or the abundance of transcripts associated with embryonic quality (OCT4 and NANOG), cellular stress (HSP90 and PRDX1), and apoptosis (BCL2 and BAX). A similar result (P > 0.05) was also observed when comparing embryonic cryosurvival at 24 (52.0, 52.0, and 54.0) and 48 h (60.0, 54.0, and 58.0) of in vitro culture (G0.0, G0.5, and G1.0, respectively). Thus, we can conclude that EB use does not compromise embryonic quality and cryoresistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Joedson Dantas Gonçalves
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, 14884-900, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Brun Vergani
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, 14884-900, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Emilia Franco Oliveira
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, 14884-900, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Jeferson Ferreira Fonseca
- Embrapa Caprinos e Ovinos, Núcleo Regional Sudeste, Rodovia MG 133, Km 42, CEP 36155 - 000, Coronel Pacheco, MG, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Duarte GS, Galindo DJ, Baldini MHM, da Fonseca JF, Duarte JMB, Oliveira MEF. Transcervical artificial insemination in the brown brocket deer (Subulo gouazoubira): a promising method for assisted reproduction in deer. Sci Rep 2023; 13:17369. [PMID: 37833322 PMCID: PMC10576073 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43392-4] [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: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to test the efficiency of transcervical artificial insemination techniques with cervical immobilization (TCAI-CI) or cervical traction (TCAI-CT), associated or not with the use of oxytocin (OT) as a protocol for cervical dilation, in the brown brocket deer (Subulo gouazoubira). The study was carried out in a crossover design using four adult females in two replicates with an interval of 60 days. Estrus was synchronized with oral melengestrol acetate (MGA) associated with estradiol benzoate and sodium cloprostenol. TCAI techniques were performed from 18 to 24 h after estrus onset. All females received either an i.v. application of 50 IU of OT (G-OT, n = 4) or 1 mL of saline solution (G-Control, n = 4) 20 min before the TCAI procedure. The TCAIs were performed using frozen-thawed semen motility 40%, vigor 3, acrosome integrity 87%, membrane integrity of 95% and 13% of total post-thaw defects from the same batch. Behavioral estrus was observed in 100% of the females, in both replicates. It was achieved a 50% (4/8) success of cervical transposition with semen deposition in the uterine. Regarding inseminations, most of them (87.5%) were performed using the TCAI-CT technique, and the overall conception rate was 50%. Cervical transposition times (< 1 min) and TCAI procedures (~ 17 min) were considered satisfactory. Thus, the performance of the TCAI-CI and TCAI-CT techniques was successful, regardless of using OT as a cervical dilation protocol. This procedure is proposed as a method of choice for artificial insemination with greater applicability in different conservation centers, compared to more advanced reproductive biotechniques, and with a favorable impact on the conservation of deer species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Saloni Duarte
- Núcleo de Pesquisa e Conservação de CervídeosFaculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de Acesso Prof. Dr. Paulo Donato Castellane, S/N, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, 14884-900, Brazil
| | - David Javier Galindo
- Núcleo de Pesquisa e Conservação de CervídeosFaculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de Acesso Prof. Dr. Paulo Donato Castellane, S/N, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, 14884-900, Brazil
- Laboratorio de Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Avenida Circunvalación 28,, San Borja, 15021, Lima, Peru
| | - Maria Helena Mazzoni Baldini
- Núcleo de Pesquisa e Conservação de CervídeosFaculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de Acesso Prof. Dr. Paulo Donato Castellane, S/N, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, 14884-900, Brazil
| | | | - José Mauricio Barbanti Duarte
- Núcleo de Pesquisa e Conservação de CervídeosFaculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de Acesso Prof. Dr. Paulo Donato Castellane, S/N, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, 14884-900, Brazil
| | - Maria Emilia Franco Oliveira
- Departamento de PatologiaReprodução e Saúde ÚnicaFaculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de Acesso Prof. Dr. Paulo Donato Castellane, S/N, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, 14884-900, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Souza-Fabjan JMG, Oliveira MEF, Guimarães MPP, Brandão FZ, Bartlewski PM, Fonseca JF. Review: Non-surgical artificial insemination and embryo recovery as safe tools for genetic preservation in small ruminants. Animal 2023; 17 Suppl 1:100787. [PMID: 37567658 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2023.100787] [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: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Artificial insemination (AI) and in vivo embryo production (or multiple ovulation and embryo transfer, MOET) programs are both instrumental in accelerating the propagation of genetically and economically superior goats and sheep. The aim of this review was to present the current gestalt of non-surgical AI and embryo recovery (NSER) procedures in small ruminants. Small body size, precluding rectal palpation, and highly limited penetrability of the uterine cervix in ewes are the major reasons for the scarce use of non-surgical assisted reproduction techniques in this species. As a result, AI and embryo recovery techniques in sheep mainly involve laparoscopy or laparotomy (LAP). In does, however, the Embrapa method of AI allows for successful intrauterine deposition of semen, resulting in pregnancy rates from 50 to 80% under field conditions (>3 000 goats inseminated) when frozen-thawed semen is used. After the administration of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α), non-surgical (transcervical) embryo recovery is also feasible in goats, with the cervical penetration rate approaching 100%. There is a paucity of information on the efficacy of non-surgical AI using frozen semen in sheep, but the results are satisfactory with fresh, cooled, or chilled ram semen. An application of the NSER technique in ewes has greatly improved over the last decade, and cervical penetration rates of ∼90% can be achieved when a hormonal cervical dilation protocol using PGF2α, oxytocin, and/or estradiol ester (e.g., estradiol benzoate) is applied. In some genotypes of sheep, sufficient cervical dilation can be induced without estradiol ester included in the protocol. Several studies indicated that recovery of transferable quality ovine embryos using NSER is comparable to that employing a ventral midline laparotomy, and NSER is evidently a method of choice when animal welfare is concerned. Considering both the number of retrievable embryos and animal well-being, the NSER is a viable alternative for surgical procedures. With further developments, it has the makings of a primary, if not exclusive, embryo recovery technique in small ruminants worldwide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J M G Souza-Fabjan
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Vital Brazil Filho, 64, Cep 24230-340, Niterói, RJ, Brazil.
| | - M E F Oliveira
- Departamento de Patologia, Reprodução e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, Cep 14884-900 Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - M P P Guimarães
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Vital Brazil Filho, 64, Cep 24230-340, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - F Z Brandão
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Vital Brazil Filho, 64, Cep 24230-340, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - P M Bartlewski
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - J F Fonseca
- Embrapa Caprinos e Ovinos, Rodovia MG 133, Km 42, Cep 36155000, Coronel Pacheco, MG, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Dias JH, Vergani GB, Gonçalves JD, Oliveira TA, Penitente-Filho JM, Pereira VSA, Esteves SN, Garcia AR, Batista RITP, Oliveira MEF, Souza-Fabjan JMG, Fonseca JF. Different doses of pFSH are effective to promote follicular growth, superovulatory response, and embryo yield in White Dorper ewes. Small Rumin Res 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2023.106914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
|
6
|
Dias JH, Gonçalves JD, Arrais AM, Souza-Fabjan JMG, Bastos R, Batista RITP, Siqueira LGB, Oliveira MEF, Fonseca JF. Effects of different doses of estradiol benzoate used in a cervical relaxation protocol on the success of non-surgical embryo recovery and luteal function in superovulated ewes. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2023; 82:106751. [PMID: 35901610 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2022.106751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the effectiveness of different doses of estradiol benzoate (EB) to promote cervical relaxation and their effects on luteal function and outcomes of non-surgical embryo recovery (NSER) in sheep. Multiparous (MULT) and nulliparous (NULL) crossbred Lacaune X Santa Inês ewes were superovulated and naturally bred. Seven days after progesterone withdrawal, females were randomly assigned to one of three distinct cervical relaxation protocols, consisting of i.m. treatment with 37.5 µg d-cloprostenol and different doses of EB: 0.0 mg (0.0EB group; n = 3 NULL and 14 MULT); 0.5 mg (0.5EB group; n = 4 NULL and 12 MULT) or 1.0 mg (1.0EB group, n = 6 NULL and 11 MULT) 16 h before NSER. All ewes received 50 IU of oxytocin 20 min before NSER (D17). Blood samples were collected and ultrasound exams (B-mode and color Doppler) were performed at two timepoints: immediately before d-cloprostenol and EB treatments and prior to NSER. Estrous behavior, corpora lutea count and NSER success outcomes were not affected by EB treatments nor parity (P > 0.05). Embryo recovery rate was greater for ewes in the 0.5EB group and in the NULL ewes (P < 0.05). Ovarian biometrics differed between the two evaluation timepoints in all groups (P < 0.05). Plasma estradiol increased over time, reaching a significant greater level in 1.0EB ewes compared to controls on D17 (P < 0.05), whereas progesterone concentrations decreased over time in all groups (P > 0.05). In conclusion, treatments did not affect NSER success but they did affect luteal function by altering P4 and E2 concentrations. Therefore, the NSER technique can be successfully performed in ewes with or without prior treatment with EB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J H Dias
- Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Av. Peter Henry Rolfs, s/n, 36570-000, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - J D Gonçalves
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, 14884-900, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - A M Arrais
- Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Rodovia BR 465, Km7, s/n, 23890-000, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
| | - J M G Souza-Fabjan
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Vital Brazil Filho, 64, 24230-340, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - R Bastos
- Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Av. Alberto Lamego, n° 2000, 28013-642, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - R I T P Batista
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Vital Brazil Filho, 64, 24230-340, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - L G B Siqueira
- Embrapa Gado de Leite, Av. Eugênio do Nascimento, 610, 36038-330, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - M E F Oliveira
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, 14884-900, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - J F Fonseca
- Embrapa Caprinos e Ovinos, Três Lagoas Farm, Road Sobral -Groaíras, km 04, CP 145, 62010-970, Sobral, CE, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Oliveira MEF, Arrais AM, Vergani GB, Novita Esteves S, Schinaider Do Amaral Pereira V, Garcia AR, Bastos R, Roberto Bourg Melo M, Rios Coelho Alves B, Ferreira Fonseca J. Hormonal-Induced Cervical Relaxation During Diestrus in Ewes: Cervical Transposing Feasibility and Use of hCG for Rescuing Disrupted Luteal Function. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2022:1-17. [PMID: 36342446 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2022.2141576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Cervical relaxation (CR) was performed in ewes during diestrus, to prospect a feasible protocol for non-surgical embryo transfer (NSET). In Trial 1, naturally mated ewes (n=13) received CR protocols with estradiol benzoate (EB, 1 mg on D6) and oxytocin (OT, 50 IU on D7) only (G-EB+OT) or associated with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG, 300 IU on D7, G-EB+OT+hCG) and were compared to non-hormonally treated (G-control) ewes. Estradiol concentration increased (P<0.05) from D6 to D7 in G-EB+OT and G-EB+OT+hCG, then decreased (P<0.05) on D8. The G-EB+OT had reduced (P<0.05) progesterone on D8, and 0% (0/5) pregnancy, while G-control had 100% (3/3) conception rate. The treatment with hCG mitigated the progesterone drop on D8 and resulted in 50% (2/4) conception rate. In Trial 2, cervical transposing success after treatment with EB, OT, and hCG on D6 and D7 was assessed in nulliparous (n=25) and multiparous (n=30) ewes. The EB+OT+hCG protocol allowed efficient cervical transposition (~78% of cervical transposition success into ~5 min) in nulliparous and multiparous females and did not alter total and blood perfusion areas of corpora lutea (CL). The use of EB+OT+hCG was efficient to ensure effective cervical transposing in nulliparous and multiparous ewes, with no apparent deleterious effect on CL function, and may contribute to animal welfare, allowing a less invasive NSET procedure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Emilia Franco Oliveira
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Jaboticabal, Brazil
- Embrapa Caprinos e Ovinos (CNPC), Coronel Pacheco, Brazil
| | - Aline Matos Arrais
- Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), Seropédica, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Brun Vergani
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Rosemary Bastos
- Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Single dose of 300 IU hCG in the early luteal phase in superovulated ewes: effects on corpora lutea, progesterone profile, and embryo recovery. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 247:107101. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2022.107101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
9
|
Gutierrez VA, Sánchez-Dávila F, Ledezma-Torres RA, Peterson S, Brenner EG, Luna-Palomera C, Vazquez-Armijo JF, López-Villalobos N, Grizelj J. The use of oxytocin to cause cervical dilation for transcervical insemination in nulliparous goats: Improving pregnancy and kidding rates. Reprod Domest Anim 2022; 57:886-892. [PMID: 35467775 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14135] [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: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
To evaluate the effect of oxytocin as a cervical dilator, a study was carried out on nulliparous goats inseminated transcervically at the beginning of the breeding season. One hundred sixteen nulliparous goats with a mean live weight of 33.4 ± 0.68 kg and an age of 13.7 ± 0.37 months were used. The goats were exposed to active bucks of proven fertility for a period of 14 d in order to induce oestrus. One week later, the Ovsynch protocol was applied, which consisted of the application of 20 mg of gonadorelin (Day Zero), 0.075 mg of cloprostenol (Day 7) and of a second dose of 20 mg of gonadorelin applied on Day 9. Artificial insemination (AI) was performed 16 hr later. Three treatments were evaluated: T1 = 50 IU saline, T2 = 25 IU oxytocin; T3 = 50 IU of oxytocin, intravenously applied 10-15 min before AI. The time required to inseminate each treated goat from groups T2 and T3 was 49.56 and 56.25 s, respectively, versus 85.78 s needed for the goats from group T1 (p < .0001). In the T1 group of goats, the insemination catheter was inserted 2.1 cm into the cervical canal and in goats from groups T2 and T3 it reached 3.41 and 3.77 cm into the cervical canal, respectively (p = .02). Pregnancy rates and prolificacy (kids/doe) were higher (p = .02) for groups T2 (82.93%; 1.16) and T3 (76.92%; 1.21) respectively than for control goats (61.11%; 0.69). In conclusion, the intravenous administration of oxytocin led to greater dilation and depth of cervical penetration, obtaining higher pregnancy rates and prolificacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Alvarado Gutierrez
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Posgrado Conjunto FA-FMVZ, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, General Escobedo, México
| | - Fernando Sánchez-Dávila
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Posgrado Conjunto FA-FMVZ, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, General Escobedo, México.,Laboratorio de Reproducción Animal, Unidad Académica Marín, Marín, México
| | - Rogelio Alejandro Ledezma-Torres
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Posgrado Conjunto FA-FMVZ, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, General Escobedo, México
| | - Sam Peterson
- School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Estela Garza Brenner
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Posgrado Conjunto FA-FMVZ, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, General Escobedo, México
| | - Carlos Luna-Palomera
- División de Ciencias Agropecuarias 86280, Universidad Autónoma de Juárez de Tabasco, Villahermosa, México
| | | | | | - Juraj Grizelj
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad de Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Towards Improving the Outcomes of Multiple Ovulation and Embryo Transfer in Sheep, with Particular Focus on Donor Superovulation. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9030117. [PMID: 35324845 PMCID: PMC8953989 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9030117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Considerable improvements in sheep multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET)protocols have been made; however, unlike for cattle, MOET is poorly developed in sheep, and thus has not been broadly applicable as a routine procedure. The tightly folded nature of the ewe cervix, the inconsistent ovarian response to various superovulatory treatments, and the requirement of labor to handle animals, particularly during large-scale production, has limited the implementation of successful MOET in sheep. Moreover, several extrinsic factors (e.g., sources, the purity of gonadotrophins and their administration) and intrinsic factors (e.g., breed, age, nutrition, reproductive status) severely limit the practicability of MOET in sheep and other domestic animals. In this review, we summarize the effects of different superovulatory protocols, and their respective ovarian responses, in terms of ovulation rate, and embryo recovery and transfer. Furthermore, various strategies, such as inhibin immunization, conventional superovulation protocols, and melatonin implants for improving the ovarian response, are discussed in detail. Other reproductive techniques and their relative advantages and disadvantages, such as artificial insemination (AI), and donor embryo recovery and transfer to the recipient through different procedures, which must be taken into consideration for achieving satisfactory results during any MOET program in sheep, are also summarized in this article.
Collapse
|
11
|
Fonseca JF, Vergani GB, Lima MSD, Silva KM, Monteiro AWU, Ramos AF, Alves BRC, Souza-Fabjan JMG, Oliveira MEF, Batista RITP. Nonsurgical Embryo Recovery as a Feasible Tool for Supporting Embryo Biobanks of Locally Adapted Brazilian Sheep and Goats. Biopreserv Biobank 2021; 20:493-501. [PMID: 34747654 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2021.0066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study assessed the outcomes of nonsurgical embryo recovery (NSER) after superovulation (SOV) in five locally adapted Brazilian breeds of sheep and goats. The objective was to evaluate the feasibility and efficiency of using SOV combined with a less-invasive embryo collection technique for supplying the Brazilian animal gene bank with germplasm from specific genotypes of interest. Morada Nova (n = 20), Santa Inês (n = 20), and Somalis (n = 20) ewes received an intravaginal progesterone (330 mg) device for 9 days, while Canindé (n = 15) and Moxotó (n = 15) goats received an intravaginal medroxyprogesterone acetate (60 mg) device for 6 days. All females received 133 mg of porcine follicle-stimulating hormone (pFSH) administrated in six decreasing doses 12 hours apart, starting 60 hours before device removal, plus 37.5 μg of d-cloprostenol at the fifth and sixth pFSH dose. Donors in estrus were mated with fertile males. The corpora lutea (CL) number was assessed by ultrasonography 1 day before NSER. On day 6.5 or 7 after estrus, NSER was performed following hormonally induced cervical relaxation. A total of 97% of sheep and 90% of goats responded with estrus, and among those, 91% of sheep and 85% of goats presented a CL. In ewes, the numbers of CL were greater (p < 0.05) in the Santa Inês breed, while similar (p > 0.05) CL numbers were found among the goat breeds. All viable embryos were freezable (excellent and good quality) and the number per donor was 7.8 for sheep and 4.9 for goats. All parameters of NSER efficiency, embryo yield, and fertility post-NSER did not differ (p > 0.05) between breeds among each species. The SOV-NSER procedures applied for an embryo biobank supply of locally adapted Brazilian breeds of small ruminants were efficient regarding production of cryopreservable embryos, and preservation of donor fertility. Therefore, SOV followed by NSER is recommended for embryo biobank assembly in sheep and goats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Gabriel B Vergani
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Monalisa S D Lima
- Faculdade de Veterináris, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Bruna R C Alves
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
| | | | - Maria E F Oliveira
- Embrapa Caprinos e Ovinos, Sobral, Brazil.,Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Arrais AM, Mello MRBD, Vergani GB, Figueira LM, Esteves SN, Pereira VSDA, Bartlewski PM, Oliveira MEF, Souza-Fabjan JMG, Fonseca JFD. NonSurgical Embryo Recovery from Estrus-Synchronized or Superovulated Morada Nova Ewes: A Feasible Strategy for Sheep Embryo Banking. Biopreserv Biobank 2021; 19:360-368. [PMID: 33769085 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2020.0125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This study assessed the feasibility of in vivo embryo production and nonsurgical embryo recovery (NSER) in Morada Nova ewes (an endangered native Brazilian breed of sheep) subjected to different estrus synchronization and/or superovulation protocols. Ewes received intravaginal sponges soaked with 60 mg medroxyprogesterone acetate (MAP), which were kept in place for six (G6; n = 12), nine (G9; n = 12), or 12 (G12; n = 12) days. Half of the ewes in each group remained estrus synchronized only (SYNCH) and the other half was superovulated (SOV) with 133 mg porcine follicle-stimulating hormone (pFSH). There were no differences (p > 0.05) in antral follicle counts determined with ultrasonography 60 hours before MAP sponge removal (or at the time of the first pFSH dose) among G6 (6.4 ± 0.9), G9 (6.2 ± 0.7), and G12 (5.5 ± 0.6). Estrus responses and NSER success rates did not vary (p > 0.05) among the three progestin-treatment groups of ewes for either estrus-induced or superovulated animals. The onset of estrus occurred 10-12 hours later (p < 0.01) in G9SYNCH ewes compared with G6SYNCH and G12SYNCH, and the duration of estrus was ∼19 hours greater (p < 0.01) in G9SOV than in G6SOV. The average duration of the NSER procedure was 32.6 ± 1.3 minutes. At least one structure was recovered in 85.7% of synchronized and in 87.5% of superovulated ewes. Viable embryo recovery rates were also similar (p > 0.05) for G6 (1.0 ± 0.3 and 2.5 ± 1.5), G9 (1.3 ± 0.5 and 4.8 ± 2.0), and G12 groups (1.0 ± 0.3 and 4.8 ± 2.3; estrus-synchronized and superovulated ewes, respectively). In conclusion, progestogen pretreatment of different durations and NSER can be employed in Morada Nova ewes, resulting in reasonable viable embryo recovery rates in both estrus-synchronized and superovulated animals. Therefore, both techniques are suitable for use in commercial settings as well as small ruminant conservation programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aline Matos Arrais
- Departamento de Reprodução e Avaliação Animal, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, Brazil
| | | | - Gabriel Brun Vergani
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
In vivo embryo production and recovery in lacaune ewes after imposing a superovulation treatment regimen is related to pFSH dose. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 223:106625. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
|
14
|
Figueira LM, Alves NG, Souza-Fabjan JMG, Vergani GB, Oliveira MEF, de Lima RR, Fonseca JF. Ultrasonographic cervical evaluation: A tool to select ewes for non-surgical embryo recovery. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:1638-1645. [PMID: 32959440 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
This study assessed the cervical ultrasonography mapping as a tool to select donor ewes for non-surgical embryo recovery (NSER). Lacaune ewes had their cervix evaluated by ultrasonography 12 hr after induced oestrus onset (Trial 1, n = 24) or 30 min before NSER (Trial 2, n = 17). Cervical rings were longitudinally evaluated and classified by their degree of misalignment on ultrasonography (DMUS) into: DMUS-1-cervix rectilinear, DMUS-2-intermediate and DMUS-3-highly asymmetrical. For predicting cervical transposing, only DMUS-1 and DMUS-2 were considered suitable. Similar ranking was attributed to degree of misalignment on the cervical map (DMCM 1-3), established immediately before NSER, which was performed at days 6 to 7 after oestrus. In Trial 1, cervical retraction for NSER was not possible only in three ewes classified as DMUS-3 (3/14, 21.4%). No difference (p > .05) was observed in the cervical transposing rates between ewes with different DMUS (ranged from 80% to 100%). In Trial 2, DMUS-1 and DMUS-2 reached 100% of transposing, and the only DMUS-3 ewe has not been transposed. In Trial 1, the prediction performance for successful cervical transposing showed low sensitivity (45%) and no specificity due to a high incidence of false negatives (52%). However, in Trial 2, sensitivity and specificity were both 100%. The DMCM and DMUS were uncorrelated, probably due to cervical stretching required to perform NSER. In conclusion, cervical ultrasound assessment immediately before NSER was more efficient to predict the cervical transposing than at induced oestrus, allowing the classification and selection of ewes eligible for NSER.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Machado Figueira
- Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras, Brazil.,Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Maria Emilia Franco Oliveira
- Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Jaboticabal, Brazil.,Embrapa Caprinos e Ovinos, Coronel Pacheco, Brazil
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Dos Santos VMB, Pinto PHN, Balaro MFA, Santos JDR, Taira AR, do Espirito Santo CG, Gonçalves FM, da Fonseca JF, Brandão FZ. Use of oxytocin to attain cervical dilation for transcervical embryo transfer in sheep. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:1446-1454. [PMID: 32757343 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this work was to determine whether a cervical dilation protocol (CDP) composed of only oxytocin can be used to perform transcervical (non-surgical) embryo transfer in sheep (NSET) without affecting the viability of the corpus luteum (CL). Likewise, we evaluated whether a cervical transposing test with a Hegar dilator (CT Hegar test), performed at oestrous time, could be used to screen ewes for NSET (greater or lower chances to transpose the cervix). For that, oestrous and ovulation synchronization was performed in 25 Santa Inês ewes to induce the dioestrous condition. Animals went through the following CDP in a crossover design: E + OX, oestradiol benzoate (100 µg intravenously [IV]) and oxytocin (100 IU IV); OX, oxytocin (100 IU IV); and SAL, saline solution (IV). Using a Hegar dilator, cervical transposing attempts were performed at oestrous (D0) and dioestrous time (D8). The viability of the CL (morphology, luteal blood flow and progesterone values) was evaluated by ultrasonography (colour Doppler and B-mode) and by serum progesterone measurement from D7 to D13. The cervical transposing rate was lower for the SAL group (64%; 16/25; p < .05) and did not differ between the E + OX (88%; 22/25, p > .05) and OX (84%; 21/25, p > .05) groups. No treatment affected the CL viability. The CT Hegar test showed a high sensitivity (85.7%-93.3%), satisfactory accuracy (72%-84%), low false-negative rate (6.7%-14.6%), but high false-positive rate (46%-66.7%). In conclusion, a CDP protocol composed exclusively of oxytocin can lead to good cervical transposing rates and does not affect the viability of the CL. In addition, a screening test (CT Hegar) performed at oestrus can identify ewes for which cervical transposing will likely not occur at NSET.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Juliana D R Santos
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
| | - Augusto R Taira
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Felipe Z Brandão
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|