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Maggi G, Pires OS, Junior SFV, Oliveira FC, Moraes FP, Ferreira R, Vieira AD, Rovani MT, Gonçalves PBD, Mondadori RG, Gasperin BG. Is it possible to replace eCG by GnRH in the hormonal protocol for timed artificial insemination in ewes during the breeding season? Domest Anim Endocrinol 2024; 89:106878. [PMID: 39151257 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2024.106878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Hormonal protocols based on progestogens and equine chorionic gonadotrophin (eCG) are efficient for estrus and ovulation synchronization in ewes. Although eCG is indispensable during seasonal anestrus, it may not be necessary during the breeding season. Thus, we tested the hypothesis that GnRH is effective in replacing eCG during the breeding season allowing satisfactory ovulation rate, luteal function and conception rates after timed artificial insemination (TAI). Ewes (n = 134) with a minimum body condition score of 2.5 (0-5 scale) were treated with intravaginal devices (IVD) containing 60 mg of medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) for seven days and received 0.26 mg of sodium cloprostenol at the time of IVD removal. In Exp. 1, at IVD removal, ewes (n = 29) were allocated to three groups: eCG (200 IU at IVD removal; n = 10); eCG+GnRH (200 IU eCG at IVD removal and 4 µg of buserelin 36 h later; n = 10); or GnRH (buserelin 36 h after IVD removal; n = 9). Blood samples were collected 2, 6 and 12 days after TAI moment (54 h after IVD removal), for progesterone (P4) analysis. In Exp 2, the ewes were allocated to eCG (n = 10) or GnRH (n = 10) groups, as above described, and ovulation moment was evaluated 54, 66 and 78 h after IVD removal. In Exp 3, TAI was performed in ewes from eCG (n = 45) and GnRH (n = 40) groups using 100 × 106 motile spermatozoa from a pool of semen collected from four rams. In Exp. 1, based on P4 levels, we confirmed that all the ewes ovulated (29/29) and there was no significant effect of group (P = 0.89) or group x day (P = 0.18) on P4 concentration, being observed a significant effect of day (P = 0.0001). In Exp. 2, the maximum DF diameter (P = 0.26) and ovulation moment (P = 0.69) did not differ between groups. In Exp. 3, pregnancy rate was significantly lower (P = 0.02) in GnRH (22.5 %; 9/40) compared to eCG (46.7 %; 21/45). The results indicate that, although ovulation and luteal function were not altered after eCG, eCG+GnRH or GnRH treatment, GnRH alone before TAI cannot be used to replace eCG treatment during the breeding season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Maggi
- FiBRA, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, s/n - Caixa Postal 354 - Campus Universitário, Capão do Leão, RS CEP: 96160-000, Brazil
| | - Otávio S Pires
- FiBRA, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, s/n - Caixa Postal 354 - Campus Universitário, Capão do Leão, RS CEP: 96160-000, Brazil
| | - Sérgio F Vargas Junior
- FiBRA, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, s/n - Caixa Postal 354 - Campus Universitário, Capão do Leão, RS CEP: 96160-000, Brazil
| | | | - Fabiane P Moraes
- FiBRA, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, s/n - Caixa Postal 354 - Campus Universitário, Capão do Leão, RS CEP: 96160-000, Brazil
| | | | - Arnaldo D Vieira
- FiBRA, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, s/n - Caixa Postal 354 - Campus Universitário, Capão do Leão, RS CEP: 96160-000, Brazil
| | - Monique T Rovani
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | | | - Rafael G Mondadori
- FiBRA, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, s/n - Caixa Postal 354 - Campus Universitário, Capão do Leão, RS CEP: 96160-000, Brazil
| | - Bernardo G Gasperin
- FiBRA, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, s/n - Caixa Postal 354 - Campus Universitário, Capão do Leão, RS CEP: 96160-000, Brazil.
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2
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Kusaka H, Sakaguchi M. Social effects on behaviorally-scored and pedometer-detected estrus in beef cattle. J Reprod Dev 2024; 70:177-183. [PMID: 38508766 PMCID: PMC11153121 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2024-005] [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: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The number of cows in estrus often influences estrus behavior; however, the effects of social order are not well documented. This study examined the effects of social order on the expression of behaviorally-scored and pedometer-detected estrus, combined with the effects of the number of cows in estrus. In a herd comprising 13 or 15 beef cattle, cows with orders 1st-7th were defined as dominant and the remaining cows as subordinate. Sole or simultaneous estrus was induced by prostaglandin F2α analog injection and/or intravaginal progesterone treatment. Ovulation timing was determined using ultrasonography at 6-hour intervals. Estrous signs and steps of the cows were recorded 49 h before ovulation using video monitoring and a pedometer, respectively. Among the 59 treated cows, 56 behaviorally-scored estruses (27 sole and 29 simultaneous) were detected. In the sole estrus, 61.5% of the dominant-rank cows had no zero-point period; however, 35.7% of the subordinate-rank cows had that period. The dominant-rank cows in estrus alone had a significantly shorter duration of scored estrus than those in simultaneous estrus (P < 0.05). Among the 50 pedometer-detected estruses (24 sole and 26 simultaneous), the subordinate-rank cows in sole estrus had a shorter interval from estrus onset to ovulation than the dominant-rank cows in simultaneous estrus (P < 0.05). The effects of social order varied in response to the number of cows in estrus, which might have influenced determining the optimal time for artificial insemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiromi Kusaka
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University, Aomori 034-8628, Japan
| | - Minoru Sakaguchi
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University, Aomori 034-8628, Japan
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Ferrer-Roda M, Izquierdo D, Gil A, Oliveira MEF, Paramio MT. Oocyte Competence of Prepubertal Sheep and Goat Oocytes: An Assessment of Large-Scale Chromatin Configuration and Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Expression in Oocytes and Cumulus Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4474. [PMID: 38674059 PMCID: PMC11049957 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084474] [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: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The oocyte competence of prepubertal females is lower compared to that of adults, mainly because they originate from small follicles. In adult females, the germinal vesicle (GV) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) have been associated with oocyte competence. This study aimed to analyze GV chromatin configuration and EGFR expression in prepubertal goat and sheep oocytes obtained from small (<3 mm) and large (≥3 mm) follicles and compare them with those from adults. GV chromatin was classified from diffuse to condensed as GV1, GVn, and GVc for goats and NSN, SN, and SNE for sheep. EGFR was quantified in cumulus cells (CCs) by Western blotting and in oocytes by immunofluorescence. Oocytes from prepubertal large follicles and adults exhibited highly condensed chromatin in goats (71% and 69% in GVc, respectively) and sheep (59% and 75% in SNE, respectively). In both species, EGFR expression in CCs and oocytes was higher in prepubertal large follicles than in small ones. In adult females, EGFR expression in oocytes was higher than in prepubertal large follicles. In conclusion, GV configuration and EGFR expression in CCs and oocytes were higher in the large than small follicles of prepubertal females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mònica Ferrer-Roda
- Department of Animal and Food Science, Veterinary Faculty, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (M.F.-R.); (D.I.); (A.G.); (M.E.F.O.)
| | - Dolors Izquierdo
- Department of Animal and Food Science, Veterinary Faculty, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (M.F.-R.); (D.I.); (A.G.); (M.E.F.O.)
| | - Ana Gil
- Department of Animal and Food Science, Veterinary Faculty, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (M.F.-R.); (D.I.); (A.G.); (M.E.F.O.)
| | - Maria Emilia Franco Oliveira
- Department of Animal and Food Science, Veterinary Faculty, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (M.F.-R.); (D.I.); (A.G.); (M.E.F.O.)
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University, São Paulo 14884-900, Brazil
| | - Maria-Teresa Paramio
- Department of Animal and Food Science, Veterinary Faculty, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (M.F.-R.); (D.I.); (A.G.); (M.E.F.O.)
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El Amiri B, Rahim A. Exploring Endogenous and Exogenous Factors for Successful Artificial Insemination in Sheep: A Global Overview. Vet Sci 2024; 11:86. [PMID: 38393104 PMCID: PMC10891879 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11020086] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Artificial insemination (AI) plays a vital role in animal breeding programs. AI is applied to enhance animal genetics and facilitate the widespread integration of desirable characteristics with a high potential for productivity. However, in sheep, this biotechnology is not commonly practicable due to multi-factorial challenges, resulting in inconsistent outcomes and unpredictable results. Thoughtful selection of semen donors and recipients based on genetic merit deeply impacts ovine AI outcomes. Additionally, endogenous factors such as breed, age, fertility traits, genetic disorders, and cervical anatomy in ewes contribute to ovine AI success. Extensive research has studied exogenous influences on sexual behavior, reproductive health, and hormonal regulation, all impacting ovine AI success. These exogenous factors include techniques like estrus induction, synchronization, semen handling methods (fresh/chilled/frozen), and insemination methods (cervical/laparoscopic), as well as nutritional factors and climatic conditions. This overview of the literature highlights the endogenous and exogenous challenges facing successful ovine AI and proposes strategies and best practices for improvement. This paper will serve as a guide for understanding and optimizing the success of ovine AI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bouchra El Amiri
- Animal Production Unit, Regional Center Agricultural Research of Settat, National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA), Avenue Ennasr, P.O. Box 415 Rabat Principal, Rabat 10090, Morocco;
- African Sustainable Agriculture Research Institute (ASARI), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), Laayoune 70000, Morocco
| | - Abdellatif Rahim
- Animal Production Unit, Regional Center Agricultural Research of Settat, National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA), Avenue Ennasr, P.O. Box 415 Rabat Principal, Rabat 10090, Morocco;
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Neurosciences, Natural Resources and Environment, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Hassan First University of Settat, P.O. Box 577, Settat 26000, Morocco
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Sarvari A, Niasari-Naslaji A, Shirazi A, Heidari B, Boroujeni SB, Moradi MH, Naderi MM, Behzadi B, Mehrazar MM, Dehghan MM. Effect of Intra-ovarian Injection of Mesenchymal Stem Cells or its Conditioned Media on Repeated OPU-IVEP Outcomes in Jersey Heifers and Its Relationship with Follicular Fluid Inflammatory Markers. Avicenna J Med Biotechnol 2024; 16:16-28. [PMID: 38605741 PMCID: PMC11005394 DOI: 10.18502/ajmb.v16i1.14167] [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: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Repeated Ovum Pick Up (OPU) could have a detrimental effect on ovarian function, reducing In Vitro Embryo Production (IVEP). The present study examined the therapeutic effect of adipose-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) or its Conditioned Medium (ConM) on ovarian trauma following repeated OPU. Resolvin E1 (RvE1) and Interleukin-12 (IL-12) were investigated as biomarkers. Methods Jersey heifers (n=8) experienced 11 OPU sessions including 5 pre-treatment and 6 treatment sessions. Heifers received intra-ovarian administration of MSCs or ConM (right ovary) and Dulbecco's Modified Phosphate Buffer Saline (DMPBS; left ovary) after OPU in sessions 5 and 8 and 2 weeks after session 11. The concentrations of RvE1 and IL-12 in follicular fluid was evaluated on sessions 1, 5, 6, 9, and 4 weeks after session 11. Following each OPU session, the IVEP parameters were recorded. Results Intra-ovarian administration of MSCs, ConM, and DMPBS did not affect IVEP parameters (p>0.05). The concentration of IL-12 in follicular fluid increased at the last session of pre-treatment (Session 5; p<0.05) and remained elevated throughout the treatment period. There was no correlation between IL-12 and IVEP parameters (p>0.05). However, RvE1 remained relatively high during the pre-treatment and decreased toward the end of treatment period (p<0.05). This in turn was associated with decline in some IVEP parameters (p<0.05). Conclusion Intra-ovarian administration of MSCs or ConM during repeated OPU did not enhance IVEP outcomes in Bos taurus heifers. The positive association between RvE1 and some of IVEP parameters could nominate RvE1 as a promising biomarker to predict IVEP parameters following repeated OPU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Sarvari
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Niasari-Naslaji
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Shirazi
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Banafsheh Heidari
- Department of Photo Healing and Regeneration, Medical Laser Research Center, Yara Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Borjian Boroujeni
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Moradi
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Arak University, Arak, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Mahdi Naderi
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahareh Behzadi
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Mahdi Mehrazar
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mehdi Dehghan
- Department of Surgery and Radiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
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Baruselli PS, de Carvalho NAT, Gasparrini B, Campanile G, D'Occhio MJ. Review: Development, adoption, and impact of assisted reproduction in domestic buffaloes. Animal 2023; 17 Suppl 1:100764. [PMID: 37567675 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2023.100764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The domestic buffalo (Bubalus bubalis), also known as water buffalo, comprises two sub-species the River buffalo (B. bubalis ssp. bubalis; 50 chromosomes) and the Swamp buffalo (ssp. carabanensis; 48 chromosomes). Domestic buffaloes are a globally significant livestock species. In South Asia, the River buffalo is a primary source of milk and meat and has a very important role in food security. The River buffalo also supports high-value, differentiated food production in Europe and the Americas. The Swamp buffalo is an important draft animal and a source of food in Southeast Asia and East Asia. The growing importance of buffaloes requires that they undergo an accelerated rate of genetic gain for efficiency of production, product quality, and sustainability. This will involve the increased use of assisted reproduction. The initial application of reproductive technology in buffaloes had variable success as it relied on the adoption of procedures developed for cattle. This included artificial insemination (AI), sperm cryopreservation, and embryo technologies such as cloning and in vitro embryo production (IVEP). Reproductive technology has been progressively refined in buffaloes, and today, the success of AI and IVEP is comparable to cattle. Ovarian follicular superstimulation (superovulation) combined with in vivo embryo production results in low embryo recovery in buffaloes and has limited practical application. The contribution of elite female buffaloes to future genetic improvement will therefore rely mainly on oocyte pickup and IVEP. This will include IVEP from females before puberty to reduce generation intervals. This review provides for the first time a clear chronology on the development, adoption, and impact, of assisted reproduction in domestic buffaloes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro S Baruselli
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Nelcio A T de Carvalho
- Research and Development Unit of Registro, Diversified Animal Science Research Center/Institute of Animal Science, Registro, São Paulo-SP, Brazil
| | - Bianca Gasparrini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Campanile
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Michael J D'Occhio
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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7
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Soto-Heras S, Sakkas D, Miller DJ. Sperm selection by the oviduct: perspectives for male fertility and assisted reproductive technologies†. Biol Reprod 2023; 108:538-552. [PMID: 36625382 PMCID: PMC10106845 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The contribution of sperm to embryogenesis is gaining attention with up to 50% of infertility cases being attributed to a paternal factor. The traditional methods used in assisted reproductive technologies for selecting and assessing sperm quality are mainly based on motility and viability parameters. However, other sperm characteristics, including deoxyribonucleic acid integrity, have major consequences for successful live birth. In natural reproduction, sperm navigate the male and female reproductive tract to reach and fertilize the egg. During transport, sperm encounter many obstacles that dramatically reduce the number arriving at the fertilization site. In humans, the number of sperm is reduced from tens of millions in the ejaculate to hundreds in the Fallopian tube (oviduct). Whether this sperm population has higher fertilization potential is not fully understood, but several studies in animals indicate that many defective sperm do not advance to the site of fertilization. Moreover, the oviduct plays a key role in fertility by modulating sperm transport, viability, and maturation, providing sperm that are ready to fertilize at the appropriate time. Here we present evidence of sperm selection by the oviduct with emphasis on the mechanisms of selection and the sperm characteristics selected. Considering the sperm parameters that are essential for healthy embryonic development, we discuss the use of novel in vitro sperm selection methods that mimic physiological conditions. We propose that insight gained from understanding how the oviduct selects sperm can be translated to assisted reproductive technologies to yield high fertilization, embryonic development, and pregnancy rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Soto-Heras
- Department of Animal Sciences and Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | | | - David J Miller
- Department of Animal Sciences and Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
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Reinoso-Peláez EL, Saura M, González-Recio Ó, González C, Fernández A, Peiro-Pastor R, López-García A, Saborío-Montero A, Calvo JH, Ramón M, Serrano M. Impact of oestrus synchronization devices on ewes vaginal microbiota and artificial insemination outcome. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1063807. [PMID: 37032869 PMCID: PMC10076614 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1063807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The low pregnancy rate by artificial insemination in sheep represents a fundamental challenge for breeding programs. In this species, oestrus synchronization is carried out by manipulating hormonal regimens through the insertion of progestogen intravaginal devices. This reproductive strategy may alter the vaginal microbiota affecting the artificial insemination outcome. Methods In this study, we analyzed the vaginal microbiome of 94 vaginal swabs collected from 47 ewes with alternative treatments applied to the progesterone-releasing intravaginal devices (probiotic, maltodextrin, antibiotic and control), in two sample periods (before placing and after removing the devices). To our knowledge, this is the first study using nanopore-based metagenome sequencing for vaginal microbiome characterization in livestock. Results Our results revealed a significant lower abundance of the genera Oenococcus (Firmicutes) and Neisseria (Proteobacteria) in pregnant compared to non-pregnant ewes. We also detected a significant lower abundance of Campylobacter in the group of samples treated with the probiotic. Discussion Although the use of probiotics represents a promising practice to improve insemination results, the election of the suitable species and concentration requires further investigation. In addition, the use of progestogen in the synchronization devices seemed to increase the alpha-diversity and decrease the abundance of harmful microorganisms belonging to Gammaproteobacteria and Fusobacteriia classes, suggesting a beneficial effect of their use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar L. Reinoso-Peláez
- Departamento de Mejora Genética Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Producción Agraria, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería Agronómica, Alimentaria y de Biosistemas, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Edgar L. Reinoso-Peláez,
| | - María Saura
- Departamento de Mejora Genética Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
- María Saura,
| | - Óscar González-Recio
- Departamento de Mejora Genética Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen González
- Departamento de Mejora Genética Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Almudena Fernández
- Departamento de Mejora Genética Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ramón Peiro-Pastor
- Departamento de Mejora Genética Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Adrián López-García
- Departamento de Mejora Genética Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Alejandro Saborío-Montero
- Departamento de Mejora Genética Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jorge H. Calvo
- Departamento de Ciencia Animal, Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria de Aragón (CITA-ARAID-IA2), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Manuel Ramón
- Departamento de Investigación en Reproducción y Mejora Genética Animal, Centro Regional de Selección y Reproducción Animal de Castilla La Mancha (CERSYRA-IRIAF), Valdepeñas, Spain
| | - Malena Serrano
- Departamento de Mejora Genética Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
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9
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Guo Y, Bai J, Zhang Z, Liu Y, Lu S, Liu C, Ni J, Zhou P, Fu X, Sun WQ, Wan P, Shi G. Pregnancy of Cryopreserved Ovine Embryos at Different Developmental Stages. CRYOLETTERS 2022. [DOI: 10.54680/fr22510110512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Developmental stage and cryopreservation method have significant impact on the pregnancy rate after transfer of embryos produced in vivo. OBJECTIVE: To determine the pregnancy outcomes from ovine embryos cryopreserved at different developmental stages. MATERIALS
AND METHODS: Embryos at different developmental stages were obtained from donor ewes through simultaneous estrus treatment and laparoscopic artificial insemination. Embryos, either cryopreserved via vitrification or slow freezing method, were implanted into recipient ewes. The pregnancy
rate was determined 35 days after transfer. RESULTS: The pregnancy rate of developing embryos increases after transfer from the morula stage, early blastocyst to expanded blastocyst stages (64.9%, 73.9% and 81.3%, respectively). However, cryopreservation significantly decreases the
pregnancy rate of embryos at all three developmental stages, and there is no significant difference among developmental stages (43.9%, 43.7%, 52.9%, respectively). There is also no significant difference in the pregnancy rate between slowly-frozen embryos and vitrified embryos. CONCLUSION:
The pregnancy outcomes of embryo transfer is better at the expanded blastocyst stage than at earlier stages. However, no difference is observed in the pregnancy rate of embryos at different developmental stage after cryopreservation, either by slow freezing and vitrification. Cryopreservation
methods for ovine embryos, both slow freezing and vitrification, need further improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhua Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P.R. China
| | - Jiachen Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P.R. China
| | - Zhenliang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P.R. China
| | - Yucheng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P.R. China
| | - Shouliang Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P.R. China
| | - Changbin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P.R. China
| | - Jianhong Ni
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P.R. China
| | - Ping Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P.R. China
| | - Xiangwei Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P.R. China
| | - Wendell Q. Sun
- Institute of Biothermal Science and Technology, School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Pengcheng Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P.R. China
| | - Guoqing Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P.R. China
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10
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Hjortø L, Andersen T, Kargo M, Sørensen AC. Breeding schemes with optimum-contribution selection or truncation selection for beef cattle destined for use on dairy females. J Dairy Sci 2022; 105:4314-4323. [PMID: 35307183 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-21258] [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: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We tested the hypothesis that the size of a beef cattle population destined for use on dairy females is smaller under optimum-contribution selection (OCS) than under truncation selection (TRS) at the same genetic gain (ΔG) and the same rate of inbreeding (ΔF). We used stochastic simulation to estimate true ΔG realized at a 0.005 ΔF in breeding schemes with OCS or TRS. The schemes for the beef cattle population also differed in the number of purebred offspring per dam and the total number of purebred offspring per generation. Dams of the next generation were exclusively selected among the one-year-old heifers. All dams were donors for embryo transfer and produced a maximum of 5 or 10 offspring. The total number of purebred offspring per generation was: 400, 800, 1,600 or 4,000 calves, and it was used as a measure of population size. Rate of inbreeding was predicted and controlled using pedigree relationships. Each OCS (TRS) scheme was simulated for 10 discrete generations and replicated 100 (200) times. The OCS scheme and the TRS scheme with a maximum of 10 offspring per dam required approximately 783 and 1,257 purebred offspring per generation to realize a true ΔG of €14 and a ΔF of 0.005 per generation. Schemes with a maximum of 5 offspring per dam required more purebred offspring per generation to realize a similar true ΔG and a similar ΔF. Our results show that OCS and multiple ovulation and embryo transfer act on selection intensity through different mechanisms to achieve fewer selection candidates and fewer selected sires and dams than under TRS at the same ΔG and a fixed ΔF. Therefore, we advocate the use of a breeding scheme with OCS and multiple ovulation and embryo transfer for beef cattle destined for use on dairy females because it is favorable both from an economic perspective and a carbon footprint perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Line Hjortø
- SEGES Innovation P/S, Agro Food Park 15, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark.
| | - Trine Andersen
- SEGES Innovation P/S, Agro Food Park 15, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Morten Kargo
- Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics, Aarhus University, Blichers Allé 20, 8830 Tjele, Denmark
| | - Anders Christian Sørensen
- Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics, Aarhus University, Blichers Allé 20, 8830 Tjele, Denmark; Danish Pig Research Centre, Danish Agriculture & Food Council, Axeltorv 3, 1609 Copenhagen V, Denmark
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11
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Crowe AD, Lonergan P, Butler ST. Invited review: Use of assisted reproduction techniques to accelerate genetic gain and increase value of beef production in dairy herds. J Dairy Sci 2021; 104:12189-12206. [PMID: 34538485 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-20281] [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] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The contribution of the calf enterprise to the profit of the dairy farm is generally considered small, with beef bull selection on dairy farms often not considered a high priority. However, this is likely to change in the future as the rapid rate of expansion of the dairy herd in some countries is set to plateau and improvements in dairy herd fertility combine to reduce the proportion of dairy breed calves required on dairy farms. This presents the opportunity to increase the proportion of beef breed calves born, increasing both the value of calf sales and the marketability of the calves. Beef embryos could become a new breeding tool for dairies as producers need to reassess their breeding policy as a consequence of welfare concerns and poor calf prices. Assisted reproductive technologies can contribute to accelerated genetic gain by allowing an increased number of offspring to be produced from genetically elite dams. There are the following 3 general classes of donor females of interest to an integrated dairy-beef system: (1) elite dairy dams, from which oocytes are recovered from live females using ovum pick-up and fertilized in vitro with semen from elite dairy bulls; (2) elite beef dams, where the oocytes are recovered from live females using ovum pick-up and fertilized with semen from elite beef bulls; and (3) commercial beef dams (≥50% beef genetics), where ovaries are collected from the abattoir postslaughter, and oocytes are fertilized with semen from elite beef bulls that are suitable for use on dairy cows (resulting embryo with ≥75% beef genetics). The expected benefits of these collective developments include accelerated genetic gain for milk and beef production in addition to transformation of the dairy herd calf crop to a combination of good genetic merit dairy female calves and premium-quality beef calves. The aim of this review is to describe how these technologies can be harnessed to intensively select for genetic improvement in both dairy breed and beef breed bulls suitable for use in the dairy herd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan D Crowe
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, D04 N2E5 Ireland; Teagasc, Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, P61 C996 Ireland
| | - Pat Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, D04 N2E5 Ireland.
| | - Stephen T Butler
- Teagasc, Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, P61 C996 Ireland.
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12
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Mahmood K, Tahir MZ, Butt MA, Qureshi SM, Riaz A. GnRH or estradiol benzoate combination with CIDR improves in-vivo embryo production in bovines ( Bos indicus and Bos taurus) under subtropics. PeerJ 2021; 9:e12077. [PMID: 34616605 PMCID: PMC8450005 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple Ovulation and Embryo Transfer (MOET) technology is a potential technique to upgrade livestock species' genetics. The varied response to super-stimulatory treatments remains one of the limiting factors to this technology's widespread use. The present study was aimed to improve the superovulation response and in-vivo embryo production by using controlled internal drug release (CIDR)-GnRH or CIDR-EB (Estradiol Benzoate) along with conventional superovulation protocol in Holstein Frisian (HF): Bos taurus; n = 42) and Crossbred (XB: Cholistani (Bos indicus) × HF; n = 28) cows. In the CIDR-GnRH/CIDR-EB treatment, CIDR was implanted in the cows after confirming the presence of a corpus luteum (CL) on the 8th day after estrus. 2 ml GnRH (Lecirelin acetate 0.0262 mg/ml) or 2 mg EB was also administered in CIDR-GnRH/CIDR-EB groups, respectively. Both groups were given super-stimulatory treatment from the 11th day after estrus (FSH in tapering doses twice a day for four consecutive days). On day 13, two doses of 2 ml prostaglandin (75 µg/ml of dextrorotatory cloprostenol) were administered (am: pm), and CIDR was removed the following day. Two artificial inseminations (AI) of the cows were performed (12 h apart) on the 15th day. No CIDR and GnRH/E.B were given in the control group, but the remaining superovulation protocol was the same. Later on, seven days after the first AI, non-surgical embryo flushing was done. The transferable embryos produced from three different superovulation protocols were then transferred into the recipient cows (n = 90) for determining their fertility. Statistical analysis revealed that the number of super-estrus follicles (SEF), multiple corpora lutea (MCL), ovulation/fertilization percentage, fertilized structures recovered (FSR), and transferable embryos (TEs) remained significantly higher (p < 0.05), and days taken for return to estrus (RTE) after embryo collection remained significantly lower (p < 0.05) in CIDR-GnRH (n = 18) and CIDR-EB (n = 15) groups as compared to the control (n = 37). The comparison between XB and HF cows revealed that the TEs production in CIDR-GnRH (XB = 5 vs HF = 13) and CIDR-EB (XB = 6 vs HF = 9) based superovulation protocols were 11.60 ± 4.08 vs 04.31 ± 0.98 and 09.33 ± 1.78 vs 05.22 ± 1.36, respectively. TEs production in XB cows (n = 5) of the CIDR-GnRH group was significantly higher (11.60 ± 4.08) than other groups. On the other hand, the days taken for RTE after embryo collection remained significantly lower (p < 0.05) in HF cows of treatment groups. However, the fertility of TEs was neither affected significantly (p > 0.05) by the superovulation protocol used nor by breed differences among donor cows. In conclusion, using CIDR-GnRH or CIDR-EB along with conventional superovulation protocol may enhance the efficiency of MOET programs in cattle. Furthermore, XB donor cows demonstrated a better performance than HF donor cows under subtropical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid Mahmood
- Department of Theriogenology, University of Veterinary and Animals Sciences, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Zahid Tahir
- Department of Theriogenology, University of Veterinary and Animals Sciences, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Mahboob Ahmad Butt
- Department of Livestock Management, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
| | | | - Amjad Riaz
- Department of Theriogenology, University of Veterinary and Animals Sciences, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
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13
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Ren J, Hao Y, Liu Z, Li S, Wang C, Wang B, Liu Y, Liu G, Dai Y. Effect of exogenous glutathione supplementation on the in vitro developmental competence of ovine oocytes. Theriogenology 2021; 173:144-155. [PMID: 34390905 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The beneficial effect of glutathione (GSH) on the in vitro maturation (IVM) of bovine/porcine oocytes has been confirmed; however, the antioxidant effect of exogenous GSH supplementation on the IVM of ovine oocytes has not been determined. In this study, ovine cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) were classified into three groups according to the layer number of cumulus cells (the Grade A group has more than five layers, the Grade B group has three to four layers and the Grade C group has less than three layers). After in vitro culture of COCs in the presence of exogenous GSH, the meiotic competence of ovine oocytes was assessed by analyzing nuclear maturation to metaphase II (MII) stage, cortical granules (CGs) dynamics, astacin like metalloendopeptidase (ASTL) distribution, histone methylation pattern, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, mitochondrial activities and genes expression. After in vitro fertilization (IVF), assessments of embryonic development were conducted to confirm the effects of exogenous GSH supplementation. The results showed that exogenous GSH not only enhanced the maturation rates of the Grade B and Grade C groups but also promoted CGs dynamics and ASTL distribution of the Grade A, B and C groups (p < 0.05). Exogenous GSH increased the mitochondrial activities of the Grade A, B and C groups and decreased the ROS production levels of oocytes (p < 0.05), regardless of the layer number of cumulus cells. Moreover, exogenous GSH promoted the expression levels of genes related with oocyte maturation, antioxidant activity and antiapoptotic effects in the Grade B and Grade C groups (p < 0.05). The expression levels of H3K4me3 and H3K9me3 in the Grade B and Grade C groups were promoted after exogenous GSH supplementation (p < 0.05), consistent with the expression levels of genes related with histone methylation (p < 0.05). In addition, exogenous GSH strongly promoted the embryonic developmental competence of Grade B and Grade C groups (p < 0.05). Taken together, our findings provide foundational evidence for the free radical scavenging potential of exogenous GSH in the in vitro developmental competence of ovine oocytes, especially oocytes from COCs lacking cumulus cells. These findings, which demonstrated the potential for improving the quality of ovine oocytes during IVM, will contribute to researches on GSH applications and the efficiency of assisted reproductive technology for ovine breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyu Ren
- College of Life Science, Inner Mongolia University, 235 West Univ. Road, Hohhot, 010021, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Yuchun Hao
- College of Life Science, Inner Mongolia University, 235 West Univ. Road, Hohhot, 010021, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Zhanpeng Liu
- College of Life Science, Inner Mongolia University, 235 West Univ. Road, Hohhot, 010021, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Shubin Li
- Department of Geriatric Medical Center, Inner Mongolia People's Hospital, 20 Zhaowuda Road, Hohhot, 010021, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Chunyu Wang
- College of Life Science, Inner Mongolia University, 235 West Univ. Road, Hohhot, 010021, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Biao Wang
- Animal Husbandry Institute, Inner Mongolia Academy of Agricultural & Animal Husbandry Sciences, 22 Zhaojun Road, Hohhot, 010031, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Yongbin Liu
- Animal Husbandry Institute, Inner Mongolia Academy of Agricultural & Animal Husbandry Sciences, 22 Zhaojun Road, Hohhot, 010031, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Gang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Clinical Medicine Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, 1 Tongdao North Street, Hohhot, 010050, Inner Mongolia, China.
| | - Yanfeng Dai
- College of Life Science, Inner Mongolia University, 235 West Univ. Road, Hohhot, 010021, Inner Mongolia, China.
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14
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Gore D, Okeno T, Muasya T, Mburu J. Improved response to selection in dairy goat breeding programme through reproductive technology and genomic selection in the tropics. Small Rumin Res 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2021.106397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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15
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Ojeda-Marín C, Cervantes I, Moreno E, Goyache F, Gutiérrez JP. Breeding Strategies to Optimize Effective Population Size in Low Census Captive Populations: The Case of Gazella cuvieri. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061559. [PMID: 34071810 PMCID: PMC8226440 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061559] [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: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Small-sized populations frequently undergo a significant loss of genetic variability that can lead to their extinction. Therefore, research on animal breeding has focused on mating systems for minimizing the disappearance of genetic variability. Minimizing the average coancestry of offspring has been described as the best strategy for this purpose. Traditionally, the preservation of genetic variability has been approached via breeding strategies for increasing the effective population size (Ne). The main objective of this study was to compare, via computer simulations, the performance of different breeding schemes to limit the losses of genetic diversity in small populations. This objective was achieved by monitoring the evolution of the effective size obtained by different strategies across 20 generations with a starting point of two pedigree real populations of Gazella cuvieri. The results showed that minimizing average coancestry in a cohort did not maximize the effective size as compared with new strategies that were designed for this study. Furthermore, the best strategy may vary for each population and should be studied individually. Abstract Small-sized animal populations can undergo significant loss of genetic variability that can lead to their extinction. Therefore, studies on animal breeding have focused on mating systems for minimizing the disappearance of genetic variability. The main objective of this study was to compare, using computer simulations, the performance of different breeding schemes to limit the loss of genetic diversity in small-sized populations. This objective was achieved by monitoring the evolution of the effective population size obtained by 23 strategies throughout 20 generations in two populations of Gazella cuvieri. The scenarios were designed with different assumptions, in both reference subpopulations, regarding: the use of parents coancestry or offspring coancestry, the use of their increases or the coefficients themselves, and the number of males and females involved. Computations were performed using an experimental module of Endog v4.9 developed for this purpose. The results of the study showed that strategies for minimizing the coancestry of the parents were better in the short term; however, these strategies were worse in the long term. Minimizing the average coancestry of the offspring was a better approach in the long term. Nevertheless, in both populations, the best results were obtained when both the coancestry of the parents and the coancestry of the offspring were weighted at 5% each and neither males nor females were assumed to contribute to the next generation. In any case, not all strategies had the same evolutionary pattern throughout generations in both populations. The current results show that neither traditional nor new strategies have any general use. Therefore, it is important to carefully test these strategies before applying them to different populations with different breeding needs under different conditions, such as different generation intervals, and different natural breeding systems such as monogamy or polygyny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Candela Ojeda-Marín
- Departamento de Producción Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro s/n, E-28040 Madrid, Spain; (C.O.-M.); (J.P.G.)
| | - Isabel Cervantes
- Departamento de Producción Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro s/n, E-28040 Madrid, Spain; (C.O.-M.); (J.P.G.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Eulalia Moreno
- Estación Experimental de Zonas Áridas-CSIC, 04120 La Cañada de San Urbano, Almería, Spain;
| | - Félix Goyache
- SERIDA-Deva, Camino de Rioseco 1225, E-33394 Gijón, Spain;
| | - Juan Pablo Gutiérrez
- Departamento de Producción Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro s/n, E-28040 Madrid, Spain; (C.O.-M.); (J.P.G.)
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16
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Fathi M, Elkarmoty AF. Effect of adding growth factors during in vitro maturation on the developmental potentials of ewe oocytes selected by brilliant cresyl blue staining. Vet World 2021; 14:452-456. [PMID: 33776311 PMCID: PMC7994115 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2021.452-456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Several factors had been concerned with the developmental competence of the sheep oocyte. This study aims to investigate the effect of adding growth factors (insulin-like growth factor 1 [IGF-1] and epidermal growth factor [EGF]) in the maturation medium of ewe oocytes selected based on brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) screening on in vitro maturation (IVM), fertilization, and pre-implantation embryo development. Materials and Methods: Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were obtained from the ovaries of slaughtered ewes by either aspiration or slicing techniques. COCs were in vitro matured in a medium containing IGF-1 and EGF (control group). For BCB screening, oocytes were stained and divided into BCB+ oocytes that matured in the same maturation conditions without adding growth factors (Group 2) or in the presence of growth factors (Group 3), and BCB− oocytes that matured in medium without growth factors (Group 4) or with growth factors (Group 5). Results: The supplementation of the maturation medium with growth factors during IVM of (BCB+) oocytes resulted in a significant increase in nuclear maturation rate (90.9%), fertilization rate (75.6%), and embryo developmental rates (60.0%, 46.7%, and 33.3% for cleavage, morula, and blastocyst, respectively). Conclusion: Culturing BCB+ oocytes in a maturation medium containing both EGF and IGF-1 showed a significant improvement in nuclear maturation, fertilization, and pre-implantation embryo development in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Fathi
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Amr F Elkarmoty
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt
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17
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Raoul J, Elsen JM. The levels of artificial insemination and missing sire information make genomic selection not always beneficial in meat sheep. Animal 2021; 15:100040. [PMID: 33573971 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2020.100040] [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: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous meat sheep breeding programs in developed and developing countries are characterized by incomplete sire information and a predominant use of natural matings. These two parameters potentially affect the benefit of genomic selection (GS), especially for the selection of a late-in-life trait. Using stochastic simulations, the genetic gains obtained using genomic and conventional strategies for a maternal trait were evaluated in meat sheep population. Natural mating and artificial insemination (AI)-based designs, inspired by the current diversity of designs used for French meat sheep breeds, were modeled and three genomic strategies were tested and compared with a conventional selection strategy: parentage assignment, GS based on a male or a male and female reference population. Genomic selection based on a male reference population did not always outperform conventional selection. Its benefit depended on the design, the level of missing information on dam sires, and the level of AI. Genomic selection based on a male and female reference population always outperformed the conventional selection strategy, even if only 25 % of the females in the nucleus were genotyped.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Raoul
- Institut de l'Elevage, Castanet-Tolosan, France; GenPhySE, Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, F-31326 Castanet Tolosan, France.
| | - J M Elsen
- GenPhySE, Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, F-31326 Castanet Tolosan, France
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18
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Souza-Fabjan JMG, Batista RITP, Correia LFL, Paramio MT, Fonseca JF, Freitas VJF, Mermillod P. In vitro production of small ruminant embryos: latest improvements and further research. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 33:31-54. [PMID: 38769678 DOI: 10.1071/rd20206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
This review presents the latest advances in and main obstacles to the application of invitro embryo production (IVEP) systems in small ruminants. This biotechnology is an extremely important tool for genetic improvement for livestock and is essential for the establishment of other biotechnologies, such as cloning and transgenesis. At present, the IVEP market is almost non-existent for small ruminants, in contrast with the trends observed in cattle. This is probably related to the lower added value of small ruminants, lower commercial demand and fewer qualified professionals interested in this area. Moreover, there are fewer research groups working on small ruminant IVEP than those working with cattle and pigs. The heterogeneity of oocytes collected from growing follicles in live females or from ovaries collected from abattoirs remains a challenge for IVEP dissemination in goats and sheep. Of note, although the logistics of oocyte collection from live small ruminant females are more complex than in the bovine, in general the IVEP outcomes, in terms of blastocyst production, are similar. We anticipate that after appropriate training and repeatable results, the commercial demand for small ruminant invitro -produced embryos may increase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna M G Souza-Fabjan
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Vital Brazil Filho, 64, Niterói-RJ, CEP 24230-340, Brazil; and Corresponding author
| | - Ribrio I T P Batista
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Vital Brazil Filho, 64, Niterói-RJ, CEP 24230-340, Brazil
| | - Lucas F L Correia
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Vital Brazil Filho, 64, Niterói-RJ, CEP 24230-340, Brazil
| | - Maria Teresa Paramio
- Departament de Ciencia Animal i dels Aliments, Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Valles, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jeferson F Fonseca
- Embrapa Caprinos e Ovinos, Rodovia MG 133, km 42, Campo Experimental Coronel Pacheco, Coronel Pacheco-MG, CEP 36155-000, Brazil
| | - Vicente J F Freitas
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Controle da Reprodução, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza-CE, CEP 60714-903, Brazil
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement (INRAE), UMR7247, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France
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19
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Abdalla EA, Id‐Lahoucine S, Cánovas A, Casellas J, Schenkel FS, Wood BJ, Baes CF. Discovering lethal alleles across the turkey genome using a transmission ratio distortion approach. Anim Genet 2020; 51:876-889. [PMID: 33006154 PMCID: PMC7702127 DOI: 10.1111/age.13003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Deviation from Mendelian inheritance expectations (transmission ratio distortion, TRD) has been observed in several species, including the mouse and humans. In this study, TRD was characterized in the turkey genome using both allelic (specific- and unspecific-parent TRD) and genotypic (additive- and dominance-TRD) parameterizations within a Bayesian framework. In this study, we evaluated TRD for 23 243 genotyped Turkeys across 56 393 autosomal SNPs. The analyses included 500 sires, 2013 dams and 11 047 offspring (trios). Three different haplotype sliding windows of 4, 10 and 20 SNPs were used across the autosomal chromosomes. Based on the genotypic parameterizations, 14 haplotypes showed additive and dominance TRD effects highlighting regions with a recessive TRD pattern. In contrast, the allelic model uncovered 12 haplotype alleles with the allelic TRD pattern which showed an underrepresentation of heterozygous offspring in addition to the absence of homozygous animals. For regions with the allelic pattern, only one particular region showed a parent-specific TRD where the penetrance was high via the dam, but low via the sire. The gene set analysis uncovered several gene ontology functional terms, Reactome pathways and several Medical Subject Headings that showed significant enrichment of genes associated with TRD. Many of these gene ontology functional terms (e.g. mitotic spindle assembly checkpoint, DRM complex and Aneuploidy), Reactome pathways (e.g. Mismatch repair) and Medical Subject Headings (e.g. Adenosine monophosphate) are known to be related to fertility, embryo development and lethality. The results of this study revealed potential novel candidate lethal haplotypes, functional terms and pathways that may enhance breeding programs in Turkeys through reducing mortality and improving reproduction rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. A. Abdalla
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal BiosciencesUniversity of GuelphGuelphONN1G 2W1Canada
| | - S. Id‐Lahoucine
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal BiosciencesUniversity of GuelphGuelphONN1G 2W1Canada
| | - A. Cánovas
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal BiosciencesUniversity of GuelphGuelphONN1G 2W1Canada
| | - J. Casellas
- Departament de Ciència Animal i dels AlimentsUniversitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBellaterra08193Spain
| | - F. S. Schenkel
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal BiosciencesUniversity of GuelphGuelphONN1G 2W1Canada
| | - B. J. Wood
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal BiosciencesUniversity of GuelphGuelphONN1G 2W1Canada
- Hybrid TurkeysC‐650 Riverbend Drive, Suite CKitchenerONN2K 3S2Canada
- School of Veterinary ScienceUniversity of QueenslandGattonQld4343Australia
| | - C. F. Baes
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal BiosciencesUniversity of GuelphGuelphONN1G 2W1Canada
- Institute of Genetics, Vetsuisse FacultyUniversity of BernBern3001Switzerland
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20
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Intensified Use of Reproductive Technologies and Reduced Dimensions of Breeding Schemes Put Genetic Diversity at Risk in Dairy Cattle Breeds. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10101903. [PMID: 33080801 PMCID: PMC7650664 DOI: 10.3390/ani10101903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In the management of dairy cattle breeds, two recent trends have arisen that pose potential threats to genetic diversity: the use of reproductive technologies (RT) and a reduction in the number of bulls in breeding schemes. The expected outcome of these changes, in terms of both genetic gain and genetic diversity, is not trivial to predict. Here, we simulated 15 breeding schemes similar to those carried out in large French dairy cattle breeds; breeding schemes differed with respect to their dimensions, the intensity of RT use, and the type of RT involved. We found that intensive use of RT resulted in improved genetic gain, but deteriorated genetic diversity. Specifically, a reduction in the interval between generations through the use of ovum pick-up and in vitro fertilization (OPU-IVF) resulted in a large increase in the inbreeding rate both per year and per generation, suggesting that OPU-IVF could have severe adverse effects on genetic diversity. To achieve a given level of genetic gain, the scenarios that best maintained genetic diversity were those with a higher number of sires/bulls and a medium intensity of RT use or those with a higher number of female donors to compensate for the increased intensity of RT.
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Impact of oxidative stress on oocyte competence for in vitro embryo production programs. Res Vet Sci 2020; 132:342-350. [PMID: 32738731 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2020.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Producing high-competent oocytes during the in vitro maturation (IVM) is considered a key step for the success of the in vitro production (IVP) of embryos. One of the known disruptors of oocyte developmental competence on IVP is oxidative stress (OS), which appears due to the imbalance between the production and neutralization of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The in vitro conditions induce supraphysiological ROS levels due to the exposure to an oxidative environment and the isolation of the oocyte from the follicle protective antioxidant milieu. In juvenile in vitro embryo transfer (JIVET), which aims to produce embryos from prepubertal females, the oocytes are more sensitive to OS as they have inherent lower quality. Therefore, the IVM strategies that aim to prevent OS have great interest for both IVP and JIVET programs. The focus of this review is on the effects of ROS on oocyte IVM and the main antioxidants that have been tested for protecting the oocyte from OS. Considering the importance that OS has on oocyte competence, it is crucial to create standardized antioxidant IVM systems for improving the overall IVP success.
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Serrano M, Climent E, Freire F, Martínez-Blanch JF, González C, Reyes L, Solaz-Fuster MC, Calvo JH, Jiménez MÁ, Codoñer FM. Influence of the Ovine Genital Tract Microbiota on the Species Artificial Insemination Outcome. A Pilot Study in Commercial Sheep Farms. High Throughput 2020; 9:E16. [PMID: 32640606 PMCID: PMC7576495 DOI: 10.3390/ht9030016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
To date, there is a lack of research into the vaginal and sperm microbiome and its bearing on artificial insemination (AI) success in the ovine species. Using hypervariable regions V3-V4 of the 16S rRNA, we describe, for the first time, the combined effect of the ovine microbiome of both females (50 ewes belonging to five herds) and males (five AI rams from an AI center) on AI outcome. Differences in microbiota abundance between pregnant and non-pregnant ewes and between ewes carrying progesterone-releasing intravaginal devices (PRID) with or without antibiotic were tested at different taxonomic levels. The antibiotic treatment applied with the PRID only altered Streptobacillus genus abundance, which was significantly lower in ewes carrying PRID with antibiotic. Mageebacillus, Histophilus, Actinobacilllus and Sneathia genera were significantly less abundant in pregnant ewes. In addition, these genera were more abundant in two farms with higher AI failure. Species of these genera such as Actinobacillus seminis and Histophilus somni have been associated with reproductive disorders in the ovine species. These genera were not present in the sperm samples of AI rams, but were found in the foreskin samples of rams belonging to herd 2 (with high AI failure rate) indicating that their presence in ewes' vagina could be due to prior transmission by natural mating with rams reared in the herd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malena Serrano
- Department of Animal Genetic Improvement, National Institute of Agrarian Technology and Food—INIA, Ctra. de la Coruña, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (C.G.); (M.Á.J.)
| | - Eric Climent
- ADM Lifesequencing, University of Valencia Science Park, Carrer del Catedrático A. Escardino Benlloch 9, 46980 Paterna, Spain; (E.C.); (J.F.M.-B.); (M.C.S.-F.)
| | - Fernando Freire
- OVIGEN, Granja Florencia S/N, Ctra. Villalazán-Peleagonzalo, 49800 Zamora, Spain; (F.F.); (L.R.)
| | - Juan F. Martínez-Blanch
- ADM Lifesequencing, University of Valencia Science Park, Carrer del Catedrático A. Escardino Benlloch 9, 46980 Paterna, Spain; (E.C.); (J.F.M.-B.); (M.C.S.-F.)
| | - Carmen González
- Department of Animal Genetic Improvement, National Institute of Agrarian Technology and Food—INIA, Ctra. de la Coruña, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (C.G.); (M.Á.J.)
| | - Luis Reyes
- OVIGEN, Granja Florencia S/N, Ctra. Villalazán-Peleagonzalo, 49800 Zamora, Spain; (F.F.); (L.R.)
| | - M. Carmen Solaz-Fuster
- ADM Lifesequencing, University of Valencia Science Park, Carrer del Catedrático A. Escardino Benlloch 9, 46980 Paterna, Spain; (E.C.); (J.F.M.-B.); (M.C.S.-F.)
| | - Jorge H. Calvo
- Animal Production Technology Unit—CITA, 59059 Zaragoza, Spain; Aragonese Agency Foundation for Research and Development—ARAID, 50004 Zaragoza, Spain;
| | - M. Ángeles Jiménez
- Department of Animal Genetic Improvement, National Institute of Agrarian Technology and Food—INIA, Ctra. de la Coruña, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (C.G.); (M.Á.J.)
| | - Francisco M. Codoñer
- ADM Lifesequencing, University of Valencia Science Park, Carrer del Catedrático A. Escardino Benlloch 9, 46980 Paterna, Spain; (E.C.); (J.F.M.-B.); (M.C.S.-F.)
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Malard PF, Peixer MAS, Grazia JG, Brunel HDSS, Feres LF, Villarroel CL, Siqueira LGB, Dode MAN, Pogue R, Viana JHM, Carvalho JL. Intraovarian injection of mesenchymal stem cells improves oocyte yield and in vitro embryo production in a bovine model of fertility loss. Sci Rep 2020; 10:8018. [PMID: 32415089 PMCID: PMC7229041 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-64810-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Valuable female cattle are continuously subject to follicular puncture (ovum pick-up - OPU). This technique is commonly used for in-vitro embryo production, but may result in ovarian lesion. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) ameliorate the function of injured tissues, but their use to treat ovarian lesions in cattle has not been established. We investigated whether a local injection of MSC would reduce the negative effects of repeated OPU under acute and chronic scenarios in bovines. First, we performed four OPU sessions and injected 2.5 × 106 MSCs immediately after the 4th OPU procedure (n = 5). The treated organs (right ovary) were compared to their saline-treated counterparts (left), and presented superior production of oocytes and embryos in the three following OPU sessions (P < 0.05). Then, cows with progressive fertility loss went through three OPU sessions. Animals received MSC, saline, or MSC + FSH in both ovaries after the first OPU. In the two following OPU sessions, the MSC and MSC + FSH - treated groups failed to present any significant alteration in the number of oocytes and embryos compared to saline-treated animals. Thus, MSC have beneficial effects on the fertility of OPU-lesioned cows, but not in cows with cystic ovarian disease and chronic ovarian lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia F Malard
- Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília, DF, 70790-160, Brazil.
- Bio Biotecnologia da Reprodução Animal, Brasília, DF, 71735-505, Brazil.
| | - Mauricio A S Peixer
- Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília, DF, 70790-160, Brazil
- Bio Biotecnologia da Reprodução Animal, Brasília, DF, 71735-505, Brazil
| | - Joao G Grazia
- Cenatte Embrioes, Pedro Leopoldo, MG, 33600-000, Brazil
| | | | - Luiz F Feres
- Universidade de Alfenas, Alfenas, MG, 37132-440, Brazil
| | | | - Luiz G B Siqueira
- Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária - EMBRAPA Gado de Leite, Juiz de Fora, MG, 36038-330, Brazil
| | - Margot A N Dode
- Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária - EMBRAPA Recursos Genéticos e Biotecnologia, Brasília, DF, 70770-917, Brazil
| | - Robert Pogue
- Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília, DF, 70790-160, Brazil
| | - Joao Henrique M Viana
- Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária - EMBRAPA Recursos Genéticos e Biotecnologia, Brasília, DF, 70770-917, Brazil
| | - Juliana L Carvalho
- Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília, DF, 70790-160, Brazil.
- Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF, 70910-900, Brazil.
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Palmer E, Chavatte-Palmer P. Contribution of Reproduction Management and Technologies to Genetic Progress in Horse Breeding. J Equine Vet Sci 2020; 89:103016. [PMID: 32563446 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2020.103016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/28/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive technologies aim at improving fertility with the ultimate result of improving genetic selection. In equidae, the respective contribution of different methods of horse management and breeding to genetic progress remain difficult to evaluate as breeding strategies affect the number of offspring per mare or stallion whereas different selection methods (based on pedigree, performance, genomics or progeny's performance) will be applicable at different ages, leading to different accuracy in the estimation of the breeding value. Here, a mathematical model was applied to evaluate theoretical genetic progress depending on breeding conditions in horses. The model showed that for breeding systems ranging from 0.6 to 2 foals/year/mare and from 10 to 150 foals/year for stallions, when selection of the best animals is strictly made by a truncation, the genetic progress is accelerated by (1) increasing the number of offspring per year, (2) the start of reproduction as soon as the age of 2 in both sexes, and (3) reducing the number of years of use for stallions from 10 to 5 years. The calculation showed that using all ways of improvement could provide an increase in genetic progress of up to +270% and +226% in mares and stallions, respectively, above the basal reference situation of 100%. In the Selle Français breed, the observed reproductive management parameters (10 years generation interval, 10 foals/stallion and 0.55 foals/mare) are close to the worst conditions of the model. In addition, the best mares are not selected for breeding. In conclusion, new reproductive technologies, genomic selection, and breeding younger animals will increase genetic gain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Palmer
- Académie d'Agriculture de France, Paris, France.
| | - Pascale Chavatte-Palmer
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Jouy-en-Josas, France; Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, Maisons-Alfort, France
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VanRaden PM. Symposium review: How to implement genomic selection. J Dairy Sci 2020; 103:5291-5301. [PMID: 32331884 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-17684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Genomic selection was adopted very quickly in the 10 yr after first implementation, and breeders continue to find new uses for genomic testing. Breeding values with higher reliability earlier in life are estimated by combining DNA genotypes for many thousands of loci using existing identification, pedigree, and phenotype databases for millions of animals. Quality control for both new and previous data is greatly improved by comparing genomic and pedigree relationships to correct parent-progeny conflicts and discover many additional ancestors. Many quantitative trait loci and gene tests have been added to previous assays that used only evenly spaced, highly polymorphic markers. Imputation now combines genotypes from many assays of differing marker densities. Prediction models have gradually advanced from normal or Bayesian distributions within trait and breed to single-step, multitrait, or other more complex models, such as multibreed models that may be needed for crossbred prediction. Genomic selection was initially applied to males to predict progeny performance but is now widely applied to females or even embryos to predict their own later performance. The initial focus on additive merit has expanded to include mating programs, genomic inbreeding, and recessive alleles. Many producers now use DNA testing to decide which heifers should be inseminated with elite dairy, beef, or sex-sorted semen, which should be embryo donors or recipients, or which should be sold or kept for breeding. Because some of these decisions are expensive to delay, predictions are now provided weekly instead of every few months. Predictions from international genomic databases are often more accurate and cost-effective than those from within-country databases that were previously designed for progeny testing unless local breeds, conditions, or traits differ greatly from the larger database. Selection indexes include many new traits, often with lower heritability or requiring large initial investments to obtain phenotypes, which provide further incentive to cooperate internationally. The genomic prediction methods developed for dairy cattle are now applied widely to many animal, human, and plant populations and could be applied to many more.
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Affiliation(s)
- P M VanRaden
- Animal Genomics and Improvement Laboratory, USDA, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350.
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Khunmanee S, Tharasanit T, Suwimonteerabutr J, Panyaboriban S, Techakumphu M, Swangchan-Uthai T. On-farm lambing outcomes after transfer of vitrified and slow frozen embryos. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 216:106467. [PMID: 32414472 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106467] [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: 07/15/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to determine the most suitable embryonic stage and embryo freezing technique for commercial implementation of frozen embryo trading by small-scale sheep producers. There was a 2 × 2 factorial design utilized for conducting the study consisting of two embryo stages (2-8 cells or morula/blastocyst) and two cryopreservation protocols (vitrification or slow-freezing). For the in vivo produced embryos, there were treatments of crossbred donor ewes to induce superovulation. Embryos were recovered surgically on either Day 2 or 5.5 after estrous onset. The embryos were cryopreserved using either a vitrification or slow-freezing method before there was transfer to recipients. Ovarian response, embryo survival and lambing outcomes were analyzed. There were no differences in number of recovered and fertilized embryos at the two embryonic developmental stages. There were no effects of embryonic stages and cryopreservation methods on pregnancy rate, twinning rate, fetal birth weights and lamb weight at 1 month of age. When there was use of vitrified embryos for transfers, there was a greater lamb weight at 2 months of age (8.38 ± 0.20 compared with 7.78 ± 0.21 kg; P = 0.044) than when there was transfer of embryos cryopreserved using slow freezing procedures. Considering economic and practical benefits to small-scale sheep farms, morula/blastocyst stage-embryo collection and transfer into the uterus is more efficacious than transferring 2-8 cells embryos into the oviduct. Results of this study may contribute to the genetic improvement in the flocks of small-scale sheep producers.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Khunmanee
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Thailand; School of Agricultural Resources, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - T Tharasanit
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Thailand
| | - J Suwimonteerabutr
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Thailand
| | - S Panyaboriban
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, Prince of Songkla University, Songkla, Thailand
| | - M Techakumphu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Thailand
| | - T Swangchan-Uthai
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Thailand.
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Daly J, Smith H, McGrice HA, Kind KL, van Wettere WH. Towards Improving the Outcomes of Assisted Reproductive Technologies of Cattle and Sheep, with Particular Focus on Recipient Management. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E293. [PMID: 32069818 PMCID: PMC7070504 DOI: 10.3390/ani10020293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The Australian agricultural industry contributes AUD 47 billion to the Australian economy, and Australia is the world's largest exporter of sheep meat and the third largest for beef. Within Australia, sheep meat consumption continues to rise, with beef consumption being amongst the highest in the world; therefore, efficient strategies to increase herd/flock size are integral to the success of these industries. Reproductive management is crucial to increasing the efficiency of Australian breeding programs. The use of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) has the potential to increase efficiency significantly. The implementation of multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET) and juvenile in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (JIVET) in combination with genomic selection and natural mating and AI is the most efficient way to increase genetic gain, and thus increase reproductive efficiency within the Australian livestock industries. However, ARTs are costly, and high variation, particularly between embryo transfer recipients in their ability to maintain pregnancy, is a significant constraint to the widespread commercial adoption of ARTs. The use of a phenotypic marker for the selection of recipients, as well as the better management of recipient animals, may be an efficient and cost-effective means to increase the productivity of the Australian livestock industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamee Daly
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia; (H.S.); (H.A.M.); (K.L.K.)
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Albertini DF. Prospects for new oocyte-based assisted reproduction in animals and humans. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 32:7-10. [DOI: 10.1071/rd19271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Procuring high-quality oocytes is the rate-limiting step for assisted reproduction technologies intended for embryo production. Although much is known about the intraovarian processes that dictate oocyte growth and maturation, subtleties in the process of oogenesis have yet to be replicated in invitro systems. In contrast with the mouse, in which functional oocytes have been derived from stem cells under ex vivo conditions, the generation of developmentally competent oocytes in other species has yet to be achieved. This paper reviews the principles and practices based on stem cell and organ culture strategies that hold promise for developing a technological base upon which future efforts to recapitulate or augment oogenesis in mammals could be realised.
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Are the spectral Doppler indices of ovarian arteries indicative of antral follicular development and predictive of ovulatory responses and embryo yields in superovulated ewes? Reprod Biol 2019; 19:394-403. [PMID: 31806576 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2019.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Nineteen ewes received 200 mg of pFSH administered in eight decreasing doses from Days 1 to 4, starting three days before CIDR® device removal. Ten ewes received an injection of 350 μg of estradiol benzoate at CIDR® device insertion (Group E) and nine animals served as controls (Group C). B-mode and spectral Doppler ultrasonographic examinations were performed daily throughout superovulatory treatment to enumerate ovarian antral follicles and to determine ovarian blood flow indices, respectively. There were no differences (P > 0.05) in superovulatory responses between left and right ovaries/uterine horns or the two groups of animals. End-diastolic velocity (EDV) and mean velocity (Vm) values were greater (P < 0.05) on Days 1 and 2, and peak systolic velocity (SVp) was greater (P < 0.05) on Day 3 in Group C than in Group E. In Group E 15 correlations was recorded among indices (SVp, Vm, EDV, flow velocity integral-FVI, and pulsatility index-PI) and follicles numbers in different size classes on Days 1, 2 and 4, and seven correlations among indices (SVp, EDV, Vm, and vascular resistance index-RI) and superovulatory/embryo results (numbers of regressing corpora lutea, numbers/percentages of degenerated embryos and viability rates) on Days 1, 2 and 3. In Group C, there were three correlations among EDV and RI and medium-sized/large follicle numbers on Days 1 and 3, and five correlations among indices (EDV, RI and PI) and superovulatory/embryo results (numbers of luteinized unovulated follicles, degenerated embryos and unfertilized eggs) on Days 2 or 4. There was a lack of consistency in the velocimetric correlates of antral follicle numbers and superovulatory responses between the left and right side. Therefore, the usefulness of ovarian arterial indices to predict ovine superovulatory outcomes remains equivocal and requires further confirmatory studies.
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Granleese T, Clark SA, van der Werf JHJ. Genotyping strategies of selection candidates in livestock breeding programmes. J Anim Breed Genet 2019; 136:91-101. [PMID: 30690805 DOI: 10.1111/jbg.12381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Benefits of genomic selection (GS) in livestock breeding operations are well known particularly where traits are sex-limited, hard to measure, have a low heritability and/or measured later in life. Sheep and beef breeders have a higher cost:benefit ratio for GS compared to dairy. Therefore, strategies for genotyping selection candidates should be explored to maximize the economic benefit of GS. The aim of the paper was to investigate, via simulation, the additional genetic gain achieved by selecting proportions of male selection candidates to be genotyped via truncation selection. A two-trait selection index was used that contained an easy and early-in-life measurement (such as post-weaning weight) as well as a hard-to-measure trait (such as intra-muscular fat). We also evaluated the optimal proportion of female selection candidates to be genotyped in breeding programmes using natural mating and/or artificial insemination (NatAI), multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET) or juvenile in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (JIVET). The final aim of the project was to investigate the total dollars spent to increase the genetic merit by one genetic standard deviation (SD) using GS and/or reproductive technologies. For NatAI and MOET breeding programmes, females were selected to have progeny by 2 years of age, while 1-month-old females were required for JIVET. Genomic testing the top 20% of male selection candidates achieved 80% of the maximum benefit from GS when selection of male candidates prior to genomic testing had an accuracy of 0.36, while 54% needed to be tested to get the same benefit when the prior selection accuracy was 0.11. To achieve 80% of the maximum benefit in female, selection required 66%, 47% and 56% of female selection candidates to be genotyped in NatAI, MOET and JIVET breeding programmes, respectively. While JIVET and MOET breeding programmes achieved the highest annual genetic gain, genotyping male selection candidates provides the most economical way to increase rates of genetic gain facilitated by genomic testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Granleese
- Sheep Cooperative Research Centre, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Environmental & Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Samuel A Clark
- Sheep Cooperative Research Centre, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Environmental & Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Julius H J van der Werf
- Sheep Cooperative Research Centre, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Environmental & Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia
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Soto-Heras S, Paramio MT, Thompson JG. Effect of pre-maturation with C-type natriuretic peptide and 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine on cumulus-oocyte communication and oocyte developmental competence in cattle. Anim Reprod Sci 2019; 202:49-57. [PMID: 30772104 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.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: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
In vitro embryo production depends on oocyte competence, which is acquired during folliculogenesis, involving cytoplasmic and nuclear processes. In vitro maturation (IVM) induces spontaneous resumption of meiosis, preventing full competence acquisition. The incorporation of a pre-IVM phase with supplementation with C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) and 3-Isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX) was used with the aim of improving developmental competence of cattle oocytes. In a preliminary experiment, COCs were cultured with increasing CNP concentrations and nuclear stage assessment was performed. Supplementation with both 100 and 200 nM CNP resulted in more germinal vesicle (GV) arrest at 6 h of culture than those in the control group (79.3%, 76.4% and 59.2%, respectively). In a second experiment, use of 100 nM CNP plus 500 μM IBMX resulted in retention of more oocytes in the GV stage (92.0%) at 6 h of culture compared to supplementation with either CNP or IBMX alone (74.8% and 86.7%, respectively). A subsequent assessment of the effect of the pre-IVM system (6-h of culture with CNP plus IBMX), followed by 20-h of IVM, with comparison to the control at 24-h of IVM was performed. Blastocyst development rate was greater after the pre-IVM phase (45.1% compared with 34.5%). The inclusion of the pre-IVM phase also resulted in an enhanced mitochondrial activity in matured oocytes and sustained integrity of transzonal projections for longer after IVM. In conclusion, CNP and IBMX function synergistically to arrest meiosis in cattle oocytes during a pre-IVM phase, which improves cumulus-oocyte communication and embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Soto-Heras
- Departament de Ciència Animal i dels Aliments, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Barcelona, 08193, Spain
| | - Maria-Teresa Paramio
- Departament de Ciència Animal i dels Aliments, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Barcelona, 08193, Spain
| | - Jeremy G Thompson
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia; Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia; Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics and Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia.
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Piras AR, Menéndez-Blanco I, Soto-Heras S, Catalá MG, Izquierdo D, Bogliolo L, Paramio MT. Resveratrol supplementation during in vitro maturation improves embryo development of prepubertal goat oocytes selected by brilliant cresyl blue staining. J Reprod Dev 2018; 65:113-120. [PMID: 30606957 PMCID: PMC6473110 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2018-077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effect of resveratrol supplementation in maturation medium on the developmental ability and bioenergetic\oxidative status of prepubertal goat oocytes selected by brilliant cresyl blue (BCB). Oocytes collected from slaughterhouse-derived ovaries were selected by 13 µM BCB staining and classified as grown BCB+ and growing BCB- oocytes. All oocytes were matured in vitro in our conventional maturation medium and supplemented with 1 µM (BCB+R and BCB-R) and without (Control groups: BCB+C and BCB-C) resveratrol. After 24 h, IVM-oocytes were fertilized with fresh semen and presumptive zygotes were in vitro cultured for 8 days. Oocytes were assessed for blastocyst development and quality, mitochondrial activity and distribution, and levels of GSH, ROS, and ATP. BCB+R (28.3%) oocytes matured with resveratrol presented significantly higher blastocyst development than BCB+C (13.0%) and BCB- groups (BCB-R: 8.3% and BCB-C: 4.7%). Resveratrol improved blastocyst development of BCB-R oocytes at the same rate as BCB+C oocytes. No differences were observed in blastocyst quality among groups. GSH levels were significantly higher in resveratrol groups (BCB+R: 36554.6; BCB-R: 34946.7 pixels/oocyte) than in control groups (BCB+C: 27624.0; BCB-C: 27655.4 pixels/oocyte). No differences were found in mitochondrial activity, ROS level, and ATP content among the groups. Resveratrol-treated oocytes had a higher proportion of clustered active mitochondria in both BCB groups (BCB+R: 73.07%; BCB-R: 79.16%) than control groups (BCB+C: 19.35%; BCB-C: 40%). In conclusion, resveratrol increased blastocyst production from oocytes of prepubertal goats, particularly in better quality oocytes (BCB+).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Rita Piras
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Departament de Ciència Animal i dels Aliments, 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain.,Università degli Studi di Sassari, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Irene Menéndez-Blanco
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Departament de Ciència Animal i dels Aliments, 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sandra Soto-Heras
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Departament de Ciència Animal i dels Aliments, 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria-Gracia Catalá
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Departament de Ciència Animal i dels Aliments, 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Dolors Izquierdo
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Departament de Ciència Animal i dels Aliments, 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Luisa Bogliolo
- Università degli Studi di Sassari, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Maria-Teresa Paramio
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Departament de Ciència Animal i dels Aliments, 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
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Granleese T, Clark SA, Kinghorn BP, van der Werf JHJ. Optimizing female allocation to reproductive technologies considering merit, inbreeding and cost in nucleus breeding programmes with genomic selection. J Anim Breed Genet 2018; 136:79-90. [PMID: 30585664 DOI: 10.1111/jbg.12374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 11/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Female reproductive technologies such as multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET) and juvenile in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (JIVET) have been shown to accelerate genetic gain by increasing selection intensity and decreasing generation interval. Genomic selection (GS) increases the accuracy of selection of young candidates which can further accelerate genetic gain. Optimal contribution selection (OCS) is an effective method of keeping the rate of inbreeding at a sustainable level while increasing genetic merit. OCS could also be used to selectively and optimally allocate reproductive technologies in mate selection while accounting for their cost. This study uses stochastic simulation to simulate breeding programmes that use a combination of artificial insemination (AI) or natural mating (N), MOET and JIVET with GS. OCS was used to restrict inbreeding to 1.0% increase per generation and also to optimize use of reproductive technologies, considering their effect on genetic gain as well as their cost. Two Australian sheep breeding objectives were used as an example to illustrate the methodology-a terminal sire breeding objective (A) and a dual-purpose self-replacing breeding objective (B). The objective function used for optimization considered genetic merit, constrained inbreeding and cost of technologies where costs were offset by a premium paid to the seedstock breeder investing in female reproductive technologies. The premium was based on the cumulative discounted expression of genetic merit in the progeny of a commercial tier in the breeding programme multiplied by the proportion of that benefit received by the breeder. With breeding objective B, the highest premium of 64% paid to the breeder resulted in the highest allocation of reproductive technologies (4%-10% for MOET and 19%-54% for JIVET) and hence the highest annual genetic gain. Conversely, breeding objective A, which had a lower dollar value of the breeding objective and a maximum of 5% mating types for JIVET and zero for MOET were optimal, even when highest premiums were paid. This study highlights that the level of investment in breeding technologies to accelerate genetic gain depends on the investment of genetic improvement returned to the breeder per index point gain achieved. It also demonstrates that breeding programmes can be optimized including allocation of reproductive technologies at the individual animal level. Accounting for revenue to the breeder and cost of the technologies can facilitate more practical decision support for beef and sheep breeders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Granleese
- Sheep Cooperative Research Centre, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Samuel A Clark
- Sheep Cooperative Research Centre, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Brian P Kinghorn
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Julius H J van der Werf
- Sheep Cooperative Research Centre, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia
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Genetic and economic efficiency of integrating reproductive technologies in cattle breeding programme in Kenya. Trop Anim Health Prod 2018; 51:473-475. [DOI: 10.1007/s11250-018-1689-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Newton JE, Hayes BJ, Pryce JE. The cost-benefit of genomic testing of heifers and using sexed semen in pasture-based dairy herds. J Dairy Sci 2018; 101:6159-6173. [PMID: 29705423 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2017-13476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 03/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Recent improvements in dairy cow fertility and female reproductive technologies offer an opportunity to apply greater selection pressure to females. This means there may be greater incentive to obtain genomic breeding values for females. We modeled the impact of changes to key parameters on the net benefit from genomic testing of heifer calves with and without usage of sexed semen. This paper builds on earlier cost-benefit studies but uses parameters relevant to pasture-based systems. A deterministic model was used to evaluate the effect on net benefit due to changes in (1) reproduction rate, (2) genomic test costs, (3) availability of parent-derived breeding values (EBVPA), and (4) replacement rate. When the use of sexed semen was included, we also considered (1) the proportion of heifers and cows mated to sexed semen, (2) decreases in conception rate in inseminations with sexed semen, and (3) the marginal return for surplus heifers. Scenarios with lower replacement rates and no availability of EBVPA had the largest net benefits. Under current Australian parameters, the net benefit of genomic testing realized over the lifetime of genotyped heifers is expected to range from A$204 to A$1,124 per 100 cows for a herd with median reproductive performance. The cost of a genomic test, a perceived barrier to many farmers, had only a small effect on net benefit. Genomic testing alone was always more profitable than using sexed semen and genomic testing together if the only benefit considered was increased genetic gain in heifer replacements. When other benefits (i.e., the higher sale price of a surplus heifer compared with a male calf) were considered, there were combinations of parameters where net benefit from using sexed semen and genomic testing was higher than the equivalent scenario with genomic testing only. Using sexed semen alongside genomic testing is most likely to be profitable when (1) used in heifers, (2) the marginal return for selling surplus heifers (sale price minus rearing costs) is greater than A$400, and (3) conception rates of no more than 10 percentage points lower than those achieved using conventional semen can be realized. Net benefit was highly dependent on the marginal return. Demonstrating that the initial investment in genomic testing can be recouped within the lifetime of the heifers tested may assist in the development of extension messages to explain the value of genomic testing females at the herd level.
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Affiliation(s)
- J E Newton
- Agriculture Victoria, AgriBio, Centre for AgriBioscience, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia.
| | - B J Hayes
- Agriculture Victoria, AgriBio, Centre for AgriBioscience, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia; Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, University of Queensland, Brisbane, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - J E Pryce
- Agriculture Victoria, AgriBio, Centre for AgriBioscience, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia; School of Applied Systems Biology, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
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Abstract
The functional cooperation between the oocyte and its surrounding granulosa cells is mandatory to oocyte growth and acquisition of developmental competence in mammalian species. Availability of in vitro methods for culture granulosa cells is important in understanding the biology of these cells and the response of maturing oocyte to in vitro culture and co-culture. Using the ovine as a model the ensuing chapter describes methods for primary culture of ovine granulosa cells and their co-culture with theca cells or oocytes that allow to mimic the molecular interactions between somatic cells and maturing oocyte and improve oocyte quality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Salvatore Naitana
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy.
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Raoul J, Swan AA, Elsen JM. Using a very low-density SNP panel for genomic selection in a breeding program for sheep. Genet Sel Evol 2017; 49:76. [PMID: 29065868 PMCID: PMC5655911 DOI: 10.1186/s12711-017-0351-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Building an efficient reference population for genomic selection is an issue when the recorded population is small and phenotypes are poorly informed, which is often the case in sheep breeding programs. Using stochastic simulation, we evaluated a genomic design based on a reference population with medium-density genotypes [around 45 K single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)] of dams that were imputed from very low-density genotypes (≤ 1000 SNPs). Methods A population under selection for a maternal trait was simulated using real genotypes. Genetic gains realized from classical selection and genomic selection designs were compared. Genomic selection scenarios that differed in reference population structure (whether or not dams were included in the reference) and genotype quality (medium-density or imputed to medium-density from very low-density) were evaluated. Results The genomic design increased genetic gain by 26% when the reference population was based on sire medium-density genotypes and by 54% when the reference population included both sire and dam medium-density genotypes. When medium-density genotypes of male candidates and dams were replaced by imputed genotypes from very low-density SNP genotypes (1000 SNPs), the increase in gain was 22% for the sire reference population and 42% for the sire and dam reference population. The rate of increase in inbreeding was lower (from − 20 to − 34%) for the genomic design than for the classical design regardless of the genomic scenario. Conclusions We show that very low-density genotypes of male candidates and dams combined with an imputation process result in a substantial increase in genetic gain for small sheep breeding programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérôme Raoul
- Institut de l'Elevage, Castanet-Tolosan, France. .,GenPhySE, INRA, Castanet-Tolosan, France.
| | - Andrew A Swan
- Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit, University of New England, Armidale, Australia
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Kaniyamattam K, Block J, Hansen P, De Vries A. Comparison between an exclusive in vitro–produced embryo transfer system and artificial insemination for genetic, technical, and financial herd performance. J Dairy Sci 2017; 100:5729-5745. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2016-11979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Accepted: 02/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Granleese T, Clark SA, Swan AA, van der Werf JHJ. Increased genetic gains in multi-trait sheep indices using female reproductive technologies combined with optimal contribution selection and genomic breeding values. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2017. [DOI: 10.1071/an15440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Female reproductive technologies such as multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET) and juvenile in vitro fertilisation and embryo transfer (JIVET) can produce multiple offspring per mating in sheep and cattle. In breeding programs this allows for higher female selection intensity and, in the case of JIVET, a reduction in generation interval, resulting in higher rates of genetic gain. Low selection accuracy of young females entering JIVET has often dissuaded producers from using this technology. However, genomic selection (GS) could increase selection accuracy of candidates at a younger age to help increase rates of genetic gain. This increase might vary for different traits in multiple trait breeding programs depending on genetic parameters and the practicality of recording, particularly for hard to measure traits. This study used both stochastic (animals) and deterministic (GS) simulation to evaluate the effect of reproductive technologies on the genetic gain for various traits in sheep breeding programs, both with and without GS. Optimal contribution selection was used to manage inbreeding and to optimally assign reproductive technologies to individual selection candidates. Two Australian sheep industry indexes were used – a terminal sire index that focussed on growth and carcass traits (the ‘Lamb 2020’ index) and a Merino index that focuses on wool traits, bodyweight, and reproduction (MP+). We observed that breeding programs using artificial insemination or natural mating (AI/N) + MOET, compared with AI/N alone, yielded an extra 39% and 27% genetic gain for terminal and Merino indexes without GS, respectively. However, the addition of JIVET to AI/N + MOET without GS only yielded an extra 1% genetic gain for terminal index and no extra gain in the Merino index. When GS was used in breeding programs, we observed AI/N + MOET + JIVET outperformed AI/N + MOET by 21% and 33% for terminal and Merino indexes, respectively. The implementation of GS increased genetic gain where reproductive technologies were used by 9–34% in Lamb 2020 and 37–98% in MP+. Individual trait response to selection varied in each breeding program. The combination of GS and reproductive technologies allowed for greater genetic gain in both indexes especially for hard to measure traits, but had limited effect on the traits that already had a large amount of early age records.
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Loi P, Toschi P, Zacchini F, Ptak G, Scapolo PA, Capra E, Stella A, Marsan PA, Williams JL. Synergies between assisted reproduction technologies and functional genomics. Genet Sel Evol 2016; 48:53. [PMID: 27481215 PMCID: PMC4968447 DOI: 10.1186/s12711-016-0231-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This review, is a synopsis of advanced reproductive technologies in farm animals, including the discussion of their limiting factors as revealed by the study of offspring derived from embryos produced in vitro and through cloning. These studies show that the problems of epigenetic mis-programming, which were reported in the initial stages of assisted reproduction, still persist. The importance of whole-genome analyses, including the methylome and transcriptome, in improving embryo biotechnologies in farm animals, are discussed. Genome editing approaches for the improvement of economically-relevant traits in farm animals are also described. Efficient farm animal embryo biotechnologies, including cloning and the most recent technologies such as genome editing, will effectively complement the latest strategies to accelerate genetic improvement of farm animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasqualino Loi
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy.
| | - Paola Toschi
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Federica Zacchini
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy.,Institute of Genetics and Animal Breeding of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Postepu 36A, Jastrzębiec, 05-552, Magdalenka, Poland
| | - Grazyna Ptak
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy.,Institute of Genetics and Animal Breeding of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Postepu 36A, Jastrzębiec, 05-552, Magdalenka, Poland.,National Research Institute of Animal Production 1, Krakowska Street, 32-083, Balice n/Kraków, Poland
| | - Pier A Scapolo
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Emanuele Capra
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Alessandra Stella
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Paolo Ajmone Marsan
- Istituto di Zootecnica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, Italy.,Proteomic and Nutrigenomic Research Center - PRONUTRIGEN, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, Italy
| | - John L Williams
- Davies Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, 5371, Australia
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Sánchez-Molano E, Pong-Wong R, Banos G. Genomic-Based Optimum Contribution in Conservation and Genetic Improvement Programs with Antagonistic Fitness and Productivity Traits. Front Genet 2016; 7:25. [PMID: 26941779 PMCID: PMC4764803 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2016.00025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2015] [Accepted: 02/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal selection for genetic improvement of productivity may lead to an increase in inbreeding through the use of techniques that enhance the reproductive capability of selected animals. Therefore, breeding strategies aim to balance maintaining genetic variability and acceptable fitness levels with increasing productivity. The present study demonstrates the effectiveness of genomic-based optimum contribution strategies at addressing this objective when fitness and productivity are genetically antagonistic traits. Strategies are evaluated in directional selection (increasing productivity) or conservation (maintaining fitness) scenarios. In the former case, substantial rates of genetic gain can be achieved while greatly constraining the rate of increase in inbreeding. Under a conservation approach, inbreeding depression can be effectively halted while also achieving a modest rate of genetic gain for productivity. Furthermore, the use of optimum contribution strategies when combined with a simple non-random mating scheme (minimum kinship method) showed an additional delay in the increase of inbreeding in the short term. In conclusion, genomic-based optimum contribution methods can be effectively used to control inbreeding and inbreeding depression, and still allow genetic gain for productivity traits even when fitness and productivity are antagonistically correlated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique Sánchez-Molano
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ricardo Pong-Wong
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh Edinburgh, UK
| | - Georgios Banos
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of EdinburghEdinburgh, UK; Scotland's Rural CollegeEdinburgh, UK; School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of ThessalonikiThessaloniki, Greece
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