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Matsumoto N, Tomiyasu J, Hagino K, Matsui M, Yanagawa Y. Contraceptive effect of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone vaccine on captive male brown bears (Ursus arctos). Reprod Domest Anim 2024; 59:e14707. [PMID: 39205472 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14707] [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: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Fertility control has traditionally been applied in zoos to control captive populations, and reversible contraception is important. However, contraceptive methods for male bears have not been reported. We aimed to establish a reversible contraceptive for male brown bears by investigating the effects of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) vaccine (Improvac®) that was developed for the immune castration of pigs. We vaccinated six bears with two sequential doses of 400 (n = 2) or 600 μg Improvac® (n = 4) with a 1-month interval during the pre-breeding season (February to April). We compared the reproductive parameters (testosterone levels and semen parameters) of the six vaccinated and four non-vaccinated (control) bears once during the breeding season (May or June). To investigate whether the reproductive performance could be restored in the following year of contraception, we also compared the reproductive parameters once during the breeding season in two bears between the year with GnRH vaccination and the following year without vaccination. Vaccination treatments suppressed reproductive parameters in 5 bears, although vaccination with 400 μg of Improvac® was not effective in one bear. Testosterone levels and the rate of progressive sperm motility were significantly lower, and total sperm count and testis size tended to be lower in vaccinated bears, compared with the controls. Blood biochemical findings and direct observations after Improvac® vaccination did not reveal side effects. Moreover, testosterone levels and spermatogenic scores of two bears were restored in the following year. We confirmed that the Improvac® vaccine elicited a reversible contraceptive effect in male brown bears.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jumpei Tomiyasu
- Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Kyogo Hagino
- Noboribetsu Bear Park, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Motozumi Matsui
- Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
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Ochoa JS, Favre RN, García MF, Stornelli MC, Sangache WC, Rearte R, de la Sota L, Stornelli MA. Immunocontraception of male domestic cats using GnRH vaccine Improvac. Theriogenology 2023; 198:211-216. [PMID: 36610370 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.12.020] [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: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The domestic cat is a highly prolific species; thus, reproductive control is crucial to reducing feral cat overpopulation. This study aimed to assess the effect of a commercially-available GnRH vaccine for swine on suppressing sperm production in male cats. Twelve sexually mature tomcats were randomly divided into two groups. Treated cats (n = 9) received a GnRH vaccine (Improvac, Zoetis Belgium SA, 0.5 mL sc) twice 4 wk apart, and the control group (CON, n = 3) saline solution (0.5 mL sc). Reproductive parameters and blood samples were recorded every 2 wk, from 6 wk before vaccination until 24 wk after the first dose. Day 0 of the study was defined as the day of primary immunization with either the vaccine or saline solution. Serum testosterone concentrations of treated cats dropped to basal levels 6 wk after D0, while CON cats maintained serum testosterone concentrations between normal ranges during the study period. No differences were observed in pretreatment and CON seminal samples. However, a progressive decrease in seminal quality was observed in treated cats from wk 8 until the end of the study. By wk 24, sperm concentration and total sperm count decreased by 90%, motility decreased by 70%, and viability decreased by 60%. Moreover, testicular volume was reduced by 49%, and penile spines showed almost complete atrophy by the end of the study. Although treated cats showed a decrease in the hematocrit, erythrocyte count, and hemoglobin concentration, values were within the reference range for domestic cats. No differences were observed in the other hematological and biochemical parameters evaluated. Our results agree with previous immunocontraception studies in cats, showing that Improvac vaccination effectively reduced sperm quality, testicular volume, and serum testosterone concentration. Further studies should be carried out to define the Improvac long-term effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jagger Segura Ochoa
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Reproducción Animal, FCV, UNLP, calle 60 y 118, La Plata, B1900AVW, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Recursos Naturales y del Ambiente, Universidad Estatal de Bolívar, Guaranda, Ecuador
| | - Romina Nuñez Favre
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Reproducción Animal, FCV, UNLP, calle 60 y 118, La Plata, B1900AVW, Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET, Godoy Cruz 2290, CABA, C1425FQB, Argentina
| | - María Florencia García
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Reproducción Animal, FCV, UNLP, calle 60 y 118, La Plata, B1900AVW, Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET, Godoy Cruz 2290, CABA, C1425FQB, Argentina
| | - María Cecilia Stornelli
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Reproducción Animal, FCV, UNLP, calle 60 y 118, La Plata, B1900AVW, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Washington Carrasco Sangache
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Reproducción Animal, FCV, UNLP, calle 60 y 118, La Plata, B1900AVW, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Recursos Naturales y del Ambiente, Universidad Estatal de Bolívar, Guaranda, Ecuador
| | - Ramiro Rearte
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Reproducción Animal, FCV, UNLP, calle 60 y 118, La Plata, B1900AVW, Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET, Godoy Cruz 2290, CABA, C1425FQB, Argentina
| | - Luzbel de la Sota
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Reproducción Animal, FCV, UNLP, calle 60 y 118, La Plata, B1900AVW, Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET, Godoy Cruz 2290, CABA, C1425FQB, Argentina
| | - María Alejandra Stornelli
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Reproducción Animal, FCV, UNLP, calle 60 y 118, La Plata, B1900AVW, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Abegglen LM, Harrison TM, Moresco A, Fowles JS, Troan BV, Kiso WK, Schmitt D, Boddy AM, Schiffman JD. Of Elephants and Other Mammals: A Comparative Review of Reproductive Tumors and Potential Impact on Conservation. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:2005. [PMID: 35953994 PMCID: PMC9367617 DOI: 10.3390/ani12152005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproductive tumors can impact conception, pregnancy, and birth in mammals. These impacts are well documented in humans, while data in other mammals are limited. An urgent need exists to understand the reproductive impact of these lesions in endangered species, because some endangered species have a documented high prevalence of reproductive tumors. This article documents that the prevalence of both benign and malignant neoplasia differs between African and Asian elephants, with Asian elephants more frequently diagnosed and negatively affected by both. The prevalence of these tumors across mammalian species is compared, and impact plus treatment options in human medicine are reviewed to inform decision making in elephants. Evidence suggests that reproductive tumors can negatively impact elephant conservation. Future studies that document reproductive outcomes, including the success of various treatment approaches in elephants with tumors will benefit conservation efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M. Abegglen
- Department of Pediatrics & Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
- Arizona Cancer Evolution Center, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- Exotic Species Cancer Research Alliance, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Tara M. Harrison
- Arizona Cancer Evolution Center, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- Exotic Species Cancer Research Alliance, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Anneke Moresco
- Exotic Species Cancer Research Alliance, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
- Reproductive Health Surveillance Program, Morrison, CO 80465, USA
| | - Jared S. Fowles
- Department of Pediatrics & Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Brigid V. Troan
- Exotic Species Cancer Research Alliance, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Wendy K. Kiso
- White Oak Conservation Foundation, Yulee, FL 32097, USA
| | - Dennis Schmitt
- Department of Animal Science, William H. Darr College of Agriculture, Missouri State University, Springfield, MO 65809, USA
| | - Amy M. Boddy
- Arizona Cancer Evolution Center, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- Exotic Species Cancer Research Alliance, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
- Department of Anthropology, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Joshua D. Schiffman
- Department of Pediatrics & Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
- Arizona Cancer Evolution Center, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- Exotic Species Cancer Research Alliance, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
- Peel Therapeutics, Inc., Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
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KAWASE K, TOMIYASU J, BAN K, ONO R, ANDO S, ONO A, KIMURA R, TOMISAWA K, MATSUI M, SHIIHARA SI. Contraceptive effect of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone vaccine on a captive female African Lion (Panthera leo): a case study. J Vet Med Sci 2021; 83:1454-1458. [PMID: 34275960 PMCID: PMC8498837 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.21-0032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Lions (Panthera leo) breed well under captivity, so contraception has been commonly conducted for population management, leading to a demand for a less invasive and reversible contraceptive approach in lions. In this study, we examined the efficacy of a commercial gonadotropin-releasing hormone vaccine as a method of suppressing reproductive activity in a sexually matured female lion. Under behavioral restraint, the vaccine was injected twice (days 0 and 109). After the initial vaccination, ovarian activity is still observed. After the second vaccination, contraceptive effect was confirmed for 246 days until restart of estrous cycles. We confirmed only a slight swelling around the injection site after the second vaccination. This study may suggest an alternative option for a contraceptive method in lions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke KAWASE
- Omuta City Zoo, 163 Showa-machi, Omuta, Fukuoka 836-0871, Japan
- Present address: Hitachi Kamine Zoo, 5-2-22 Miyatacho, Hitachi, Ibaraki 317-0055, Japan
| | - Jumpei TOMIYASU
- Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Nishi 2-11, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
- Department of Biodiversity Protection, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn 10-748, Poland
| | - Kazuyuki BAN
- Omuta City Zoo, 163 Showa-machi, Omuta, Fukuoka 836-0871, Japan
| | - Ryosuke ONO
- Omuta City Zoo, 163 Showa-machi, Omuta, Fukuoka 836-0871, Japan
| | - Satoshi ANDO
- Omuta City Zoo, 163 Showa-machi, Omuta, Fukuoka 836-0871, Japan
| | - Aya ONO
- Omuta City Zoo, 163 Showa-machi, Omuta, Fukuoka 836-0871, Japan
| | - Ran KIMURA
- Omuta City Zoo, 163 Showa-machi, Omuta, Fukuoka 836-0871, Japan
| | - Kanako TOMISAWA
- Omuta City Zoo, 163 Showa-machi, Omuta, Fukuoka 836-0871, Japan
| | - Motozumi MATSUI
- Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Nishi 2-11, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
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Schwarzenberger F, Krawinkel P, Jeserschek SM, Schauerte N, Geiger C, Balfanz F, Knauf-Witzens T, Sicks F, Martinez Nevado E, Anfray G, Hein A, Kaandorp-Huber C, Marcordes S, Venshøj B. Immunocontraception of male and female giraffes using the GnRH vaccine Improvac®. Zoo Biol 2021; 41:50-64. [PMID: 34478196 PMCID: PMC9292419 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to develop protocols for contraception in both sexes of giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis) by using the GnRH vaccine Improvac®. We evaluated the success of immunization by analyzing fecal reproductive hormone metabolites in female (n = 20) and male (n = 9) giraffes. Endocrine analysis provided the basis for the successful immunization protocol, as well as for assessing long-term effects. Reliable reduction of fecal steroid metabolites to baseline levels in female giraffes was achieved with three, and in males with four or five injections at 4-week intervals. Effective booster injections were administered at 2-month intervals in the first year of treatment and at three to 4-month intervals in the following years. In addition to endocrine analysis, we determined vaccination efficacy in bulls by assessing testicular atrophy. Long-term (>2 years) use in females was often accompanied by prolonged periods of persistent corpus luteum activity, although normal cycles were not observed. Problems might occur with reversibility, because in a few males and females, even after more than 2 years since treatment had been stopped, fecal hormone metabolites have not returned to pretreatment levels. The results are somewhat ambiguous, as reproduction can be suppressed by use of Improvac®, but the question of reversibility remains unsolved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franz Schwarzenberger
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Physiology-Endocrinology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Sophia-Maria Jeserschek
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Physiology-Endocrinology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
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Brown JL. Update on Comparative Biology of Elephants: Factors Affecting Reproduction, Health and Welfare. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1200:243-273. [PMID: 31471800 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-23633-5_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
Asian (Elephas maximus) and African (Loxodonta africana) elephants serve as important keystone, umbrella and flagship species. Despite that, population numbers are declining, due mainly to poaching and habitat destruction. Understanding reproductive mechanisms is vital to effective management, particularly insurance populations in captivity, and to that end, long-term biological databases are key to understanding how intrinsic and extrinsic factors affect reproductive function at individual and population levels. Through decades of hormonal and ultrasonographic monitoring, many unique aspects of zoo elephant reproduction have been identified, including differences in luteal steroidogenic activity, follicular maturation, pituitary gonadotropin secretion, fetal development and reproductive tract anatomy. Reproductive problems also hamper captive propagation efforts, particularly those related to abnormal or lack of ovarian cyclicity. Recent large-scale, multi-institutional studies and use of epidemiological approaches have identified factors important for good welfare and reproduction, which include enrichment, feeding diversity, good elephant-keeper relations, social compatibility, exercise, and not being obese. There are notable differences in reproductive mechanisms between Asian and African elephants, as well as the factors that influence reproduction and welfare, suggesting species-targeted management approaches are needed to maximize fitness. In the first edition, we discussed reproductive function in male and female elephants. Since then, a number of significant advances have been made primarily in female elephants, which will be the focus of this updated review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine L Brown
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA, USA.
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Joonè CJ, Nolan MB, Bertschinger HJ, Schulman ML. Researching immunocontraceptive vaccines with mares (Equus caballus) as both a target and model for African elephant (Loxodonta africana) cows: A review. Anim Reprod Sci 2019; 207:146-152. [PMID: 31208844 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2019.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 06/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
A sequence of studies is reviewed that reported the domestic horse (Equus caballus) mare as an appropriate and accessible research platform for recording clinical and laboratory data post-immunisation with anti- GnRH and -zona pellucida (ZP) immunocontraceptive vaccines. Experience with a native porcine ZP (pZP) vaccine in African elephant (Loxodonta africana) cows highlighted needs for improving vaccine formulations and more clearly defining associated ovarian effects and safety profiles. Initially, the efficacy, reversibility and safety of the GnRH vaccine Improvac® in mares was demonstrated using reproductive tract ultrasonography and concurrently measuring serum antibody titres and progesterone concentrations. Results informed the study design and minimally invasive monitoring of post-treatment ovarian steroid responses of this vaccine in free-ranging African elephant cows. A subsequent sequence of studies reported reversible contraceptive and immunological efficacy in pony mares immunised with pZP formulated with Freund's adjuvants. By comparison, mares treated with a recombinant ZP3 and ZP4 (reZP) vaccine showed disappointing responses. Unexpectedly, most pZP-treated mares showed ovarian inactivity. In attempting to understand this response, results showed the involvement of cytotoxic (CD8+) T-cells negatively correlated to serum ovarian steroid and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels. Of concern was the prevalence of injection-site lesions ascribable to Freund's adjuvants. Following this, mares treated with both pZP and a novel reZP vaccine formulated with non-Freund's adjuvants showed comparable immunological responses and ovarian inactivity, notably without adverse treatment reactions. In addition, measuring AMH showed promise for monitoring ovarian function in anti-ZP-treated animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolynne J Joonè
- College of Public Health, Medical & Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Australia.
| | - Margaret B Nolan
- Section of Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Henk J Bertschinger
- Section of Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Martin L Schulman
- Section of Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa.
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Bertschinger HJ, Delsink A, Van Altena J, Kirkpatrick JF. Porcine zona pellucida vaccine immunocontraception of African elephant (Loxodonta africana) cows: A review of 22 years of research. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.4102/abc.v48i2.2324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Background: The native porcine zona pellucida (pZP) vaccine has been successfully used for immunocontraception of wild horses, white-tailed deer and approximately 90 zoo species for more than 25 years.Objectives: To provide proof of concept and test contraceptive efficacy of pZP in African elephants. Once completed, test the population and behavioural effects on cows in the Greater Makalali Private Game Reserve (GMPGR). Following the GMPGR, test efficacy, population effects, safety and reversibility in 25 reserves with populations ranging from 9 to 700 elephants.Method: Histological sections were reacted with anti-pZP antibodies to provide proof of concept. From 1996 to 2000, 21 and 10 cows were treated with pZP vaccine in the Kruger National Park (KNP) and monitored for pregnancy. Population effects of pZP with Freund’s adjuvants (three vaccinations in Year 1 with one annual booster) were studied on 18 cows in the GMPGR. Another six game reserves with a total of 90 cows were added to the project. The project was then expanded to include another 18 reserves.Results: Binding of anti-pZP antibodies to elephant zona proteins was demonstrated in vitro. The KNP provided efficacy results of 56% and 80%, respectively. The contraceptive efficacy in the GMPGR and additional six reserves was 100% following calving of pregnant cows. Safety and lack of impact on social behaviour were demonstrated. In larger populations, efficacy was 95%.Conclusion: Contraceptive efficacy and safety of pZP vaccine could be demonstrated in small to large populations. The methodology is now being implemented in approximately 800 cows on 26 reserves across South Arica.
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Bertschinger HJ, Lueders I. Use of anti-gonadotropin-releasing hormone vaccines in African elephants (Loxodonta africana): A review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.4102/abc.v48i2.2320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Background: Androgen-related aggressive behaviour and musth cause serious problems in captive African elephant bulls and often lead to human and animal injuries, and damage to property.Objectives: To review the work carried out with anti-gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) vaccines to control androgen-related behaviour and fertility in captive and free-ranging elephant bulls and the induction of anoestrus in elephant cows.Method: In the first study, an anti-GnRH vaccine from Pepscan was tested in six bulls (four captive and two free-ranging). Once the vaccine Improvac® became available, the effect on behaviour, the reproductive organs and semen quality was tested. Improvac® was also used to attempt induction of anoestrus in elephant cows.Results: The first study proved that aggressive behaviours are significantly associated with increased faecal androgen concentrations. Musth (n = 1) and aggressive behaviour (n = 2) were down regulated and correlated with a decline in faecal androgen concentrations. Aggression and musth could be controlled with Improvac® (600 µg), but were more consistent when the dose was increased to 1000 µg administered every five to six months. The same dose down regulated testicular function and bulls (n = 17) were rendered infertile within 12 months after commencement of treatment. Initial attempts to induce anoestrous with 600 µg in free-ranging elephant cows gave inconclusive results, but 1000 µg in captive cows delivered five-monthly was successful.Conclusion: The treatment of elephant bulls with Improvac® resulted in the successful down-regulation of androgen-related behaviour and sperm production in captive and wild elephant bulls of various ages (≤ 34 years). Preliminary studies to induce anoestrus in cows with Improvac® appear to be successful.
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Thitaram C, Brown JL. Monitoring and controlling ovarian activity in elephants. Theriogenology 2018; 109:42-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Hermes R, Schwarzenberger F, Göritz F, Oh S, Fernandes T, Bernardino R, Leclerc A, Greunz E, Mathew A, Forsyth S, Saragusty J, Hildebrandt TB. Ovarian down Regulation by GnRF Vaccination Decreases Reproductive Tract Tumour Size in Female White and Greater One-Horned Rhinoceroses. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0157963. [PMID: 27403662 PMCID: PMC4942122 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0157963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproductive tract tumours, specifically leiomyoma, are commonly found in female rhinoceroses. Similar to humans, tumour growth in rhinoceroses is thought to be sex hormone dependent. Tumours can form and expand from the onset of ovarian activity at puberty until the cessation of sex-steroid influences at senescence. Extensive tumour growth results in infertility. The aim of this study was to down regulate reproductive function of tumour-diseased and infertile females to stop further tumour growth using a Gonadotropin releasing factor (GnRF) vaccine. Four infertile southern white (Ceratotherium simum simum) and three Greater one-horned rhinoceroses (rhinoceros unicornis) with active ovaries and 2.7 ± 0.9 and 14.0 ± 1.5 reproductive tract tumours respectively were vaccinated against GnRF (Improvac®, Zoetis, Germany) at 0, 4 and 16 weeks and re-boostered every 6-8 months thereafter. After GnRF vaccination ovarian and luteal activity was suppressed in all treated females. Three months after vaccination the size of the ovaries, the number of follicles and the size of the largest follicle were significantly reduced (P<0.03). Reproductive tract tumours decreased significantly in diameter (Greater-one horned rhino: P<0.0001; white rhino: P<0.01), presumably as a result of reduced sex-steroid influence. The calculated tumour volumes were reduced by 50.8 ± 10.9% in Greater one-horned and 48.6 ± 12.9% in white rhinoceroses. In conclusion, GnRF vaccine effectively down regulated reproductive function and decreased the size of reproductive tract tumours in female rhinoceros. Our work is the first to use down regulation of reproductive function as a symptomatic treatment against benign reproductive tumour disease in a wildlife species. Nonetheless, full reversibility and rhinoceros fertility following GnRF vaccination warrants further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Hermes
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, PF 700430, D-10342 Berlin, Germany
| | - Franz Schwarzenberger
- University of Veterinary Medicine, Biomedical Sciences, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Frank Göritz
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, PF 700430, D-10342 Berlin, Germany
| | - Serena Oh
- Singapore Zoological Gardens, 80 Mandai Lakeroad, Singapore 729826, Singapore
| | - Teresa Fernandes
- Lisbon Zoo, Veterinary Hospital, Estrada de Benfica, n°158-160 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rui Bernardino
- Lisbon Zoo, Veterinary Hospital, Estrada de Benfica, n°158-160 Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | | | - Abraham Mathew
- Singapore Zoological Gardens, 80 Mandai Lakeroad, Singapore 729826, Singapore
| | - Sarah Forsyth
- Colchester Zoo, Maldon Road, Stanway, Essex CO3 0SL, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph Saragusty
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, PF 700430, D-10342 Berlin, Germany
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Somgird C, Homkong P, Sripiboon S, Brown JL, Stout TA, Colenbrander B, Mahasawangkul S, Thitaram C. Potential of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone vaccine to suppress musth in captive male Asian elephants (Elephas maximus). Anim Reprod Sci 2016; 164:111-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2015.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Revised: 11/13/2015] [Accepted: 11/17/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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SUPRESSION OF TESTICULAR FUNCTION IN A MALE ASIAN ELEPHANT (ELEPHAS MAXIMUS) TREATED WITH GONADOTROPIN-RELEASING HORMONE VACCINES. J Zoo Wildl Med 2014; 45:611-9. [DOI: 10.1638/2013-0233r.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Tubbs C, McDonough CE, Felton R, Milnes MR. Advances in conservation endocrinology: the application of molecular approaches to the conservation of endangered species. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2014; 203:29-34. [PMID: 24613137 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2013] [Revised: 02/07/2014] [Accepted: 02/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Among the numerous societal benefits of comparative endocrinology is the application of our collective knowledge of hormone signaling towards the conservation of threatened and endangered species - conservation endocrinology. For several decades endocrinologists have used longitudinal hormone profiles to monitor reproductive status in a multitude of species. Knowledge of reproductive status among individuals has been used to assist in the management of captive and free-ranging populations. More recently, researchers have begun utilizing molecular and cell-based techniques to gain a more complete understanding of hormone signaling in wildlife species, and to identify potential causes of disrupted hormone signaling. In this review we examine various in vitro approaches we have used to compare estrogen receptor binding and activation by endogenous hormones and phytoestrogens in two species of rhinoceros; southern white and greater one-horned. We have found many of these techniques valuable and practical in species where access to research subjects and/or tissues is limited due to their conservation status. From cell-free, competitive binding assays to full-length receptor activation assays; each technique has strengths and weaknesses related to cost, sensitivity, complexity of the protocols, and relevance to in vivo signaling. We then present a novel approach, in which receptor activation assays are performed in primary cell lines derived from the species of interest, to minimize the artifacts of traditional heterologous expression systems. Finally, we speculate on the promise of next generation sequencing and transcriptome profiling as tools for characterizing hormone signaling in threatened and endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Tubbs
- San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, 15600 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA 92027, United States.
| | - Caitlin E McDonough
- San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, 15600 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA 92027, United States
| | - Rachel Felton
- San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, 15600 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA 92027, United States
| | - Matthew R Milnes
- Mars Hill University, PO Box 6671, 100 Athletic Street, Mars Hill, NC 28754, United States.
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Bruin PRD, Medger K, Bennett NC, Ganswindt A. Assessment of Reproductive Function in Southern African Spiny Mice (Acomys spinosissimus) using Faeces as Hormone Matrix. AFRICAN ZOOLOGY 2014. [DOI: 10.3377/004.049.0106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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LACK OF SPATIAL AND BEHAVIORAL RESPONSES TO IMMUNOCONTRACEPTION APPLICATION IN AFRICAN ELEPHANTS (LOXODONTA AFRICANA). J Zoo Wildl Med 2013; 44:S52-74. [DOI: 10.1638/1042-7260-44.4s.s52] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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