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Sitko EM, Laplacette A, Duhatschek D, Rial C, Perez MM, Tompkins S, Kerwin AL, Domingues RR, Wiltbank MC, Giordano JO. Ovarian function and endocrine phenotypes of lactating dairy cows during the estrous cycle are associated with genomic-enhanced predictions of fertility potential. J Dairy Sci 2024; 107:7352-7370. [PMID: 38642658 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-24378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
The objectives of this prospective cohort study were to characterize associations among genomic merit for fertility with ovarian and endocrine function and the estrous behavior of dairy cows during an entire nonhormonally manipulated estrous cycle. Lactating Holstein cows entering their first (n = 82) or second (n = 37) lactation had ear-notch tissue samples collected for genotyping using a commercial genomic test. Based on genomic predicted transmitting ability values for daughter pregnancy rate (gDPR), cows were classified into high (Hi-Fert; gDPR > 0.6, n = 36), medium (Med-Fert; gDPR -1.3 to 0.6, n = 45), and low fertility (Lo-Fert; gDPR < -1.3, n = 38) groups. At 33 to 39 DIM, cohorts of cows were enrolled in the Presynch-Ovsynch protocol for synchronization of ovulation and initiation of a new estrous cycle. Thereafter, the ovarian function and endocrine dynamics were monitored daily until the next ovulation by transrectal ultrasonography and concentrations of progesterone (P4), estradiol, and FSH. Estrous behavior was monitored with an ear-attached automated estrus detection system that recorded physical activity and rumination time. Overall, we observed an association between fertility group and the ovarian and hormonal phenotype of dairy cows during the estrous cycle. Cows in the Hi-Fert group had greater circulating concentrations of P4 than cows in the Lo-Fert group from d 4 to 13 after induction of ovulation and from day -3 to -1 before the onset of luteolysis. The frequency of atypical estrous cycles was 3-fold greater for cows in the Lo-Fert than the Hi-Fert group. We also observed other modest associations between genomic merit for fertility with the follicular dynamics and estrous behavior. We found several associations between milk yield and parity with ovarian, endocrine, and estrous behavior phenotypes as cows with greater milk yield and in the second lactation were more likely to have unfavorable phenotypes. These results demonstrate that differences in reproductive performance between cows of different genomic merit for fertility classified based on gDPR may be partially associated with circulating concentrations of P4, the incidence of atypical phenotypes during the estrous cycles, and, to a lesser extent, the follicular wave dynamics. The observed physiological and endocrine phenotypes might help explain part of the differences in reproductive performance between cows of superior and inferior genomic merit for fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Sitko
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - A Laplacette
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - D Duhatschek
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - C Rial
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - M M Perez
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - S Tompkins
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - A L Kerwin
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - R R Domingues
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706
| | - M C Wiltbank
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706
| | - J O Giordano
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853.
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2
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Colazo MG, Behrouzi A, Gobikrushanth M. Comparison of two intravaginal progesterone-releasing devices in lactating Holstein cows synchronized with a 5-d GnRH-based timed-AI protocol. Theriogenology 2024; 229:83-87. [PMID: 39167836 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.08.018] [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: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
The objective of the study was to compare the effectiveness of CIDR vs. PRID-Delta devices for use in a 5-day Ovsynch protocol for TAI in lactating Holstein cows that were either not in estrus after the end of the voluntary waiting period or non-pregnant and not returning to estrus following the previous AI. Cows fitted with a collar-mounted automated activity monitoring system (Alta Cow Watch) were subjected to a standard 5-d Ovsynch protocol [100 μg of gonadorelin (GnRH) on Day 0 and 500 μg of cloprostenol on Days 5 and 6] and allocated randomly to receive either an intravaginal device containing 1.35 g (CIDR; n = 304) or 1.55 g (PRID ® DELTA; n = 304) of progesterone between Day 0 and 5. All cows received a second administration of GnRH at approximately 56 h and timed-AI (TAI) 72 h after intravaginal device removal. Inseminations were done using conventional frozen-thawed semen. Estrus events prior to TAI were recorded and transrectal ultrasonography was done on Day 0 to determine presence of a corpus luteum (CL) and 33 and 61 d post-TAI, respectively, to diagnose and confirm pregnancy. Cows had an average of 2.2 lactations, 124.3 days in milk, and a milk yield of 43.6 kg/d at enrollment. The overall percentage of cows with a CL at initiation of treatment was 68.8 % and did not differ between treatment groups. Cows with a CL had greater pregnancy per AI (P/AI) at 33 and 61 d post-TAI than cows without a CL (P < 0.01; 46.9 and 42.3 % vs. 32.1 and 27.4 %, respectively). The overall percentage of cows that expressed estrus prior to TAI was 24.8 % and did not differ between treatment groups; however, estrus expression prior to TAI affected P/AI at 33 and 61 d post-TAI (P < 0.01; 53.6 and 49.0 % vs. 38.5 and 33.9 % for those expressing or not expressing estrus, respectively). Pregnancy per AI at 33 d post-TAI tended to differ between treatment groups (P = 0.08; 46.1 vs. 38.5 % for PRID and CIDR groups, respectively) and P/AI at 61 d post-TAI was greater (P < 0.01) for PRID-treated cows (43.8 %) compared to CIDR-treated cows (31.6 %). Thus, PRID-treated cows had lower pregnancy loss than CIDR-treated cows (P < 0.01; 5.0 vs. 17.9 %). Also, treatment with a PRID tended (P = 0.08) to result in fewer twin pregnancies (7.9 vs. 14.5 % for PRID and CIDR treated cows, respectively). In conclusion, lactating dairy cows subjected to a 5-d Ovsynch TAI protocol plus a PRID-Delta had greater P/AI at 61 d post-TAI, lower pregnancy loss between 33 and 61 d post-TAI, and fewer twin pregnancies compared to cows subjected to a 5-d Ovsynch protocol plus a CIDR.
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Affiliation(s)
- M G Colazo
- Department of Agricultural Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, T6G 2P5, Canada; Leduc Farm Animal Clinic, Leduc, T9E 6Z9, Canada.
| | - A Behrouzi
- Department of Agricultural Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, T6G 2P5, Canada
| | - M Gobikrushanth
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, 4343, Australia
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Dirandeh E, Khaninezhad S, Ansari-Pirsaraei Z, Rezaei A, Colazo MG. Reproductive outcomes in Holstein heifers synchronized with timed-AI protocols that provide for a lengthened proestrus. Reprod Domest Anim 2024; 59:e14696. [PMID: 39148450 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14696] [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: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
This study compared reproductive outcomes among two protocols for synchronization of ovulation that provide for a lengthened proestrus with the conventional oestradiol-based protocol currently used for timed-AI (TAI). Holstein heifers (13-15 months) at one location were assigned randomly to one of three TAI protocols. Heifers (n = 150) in the 7-day oestradiol benzoate (EB) group received a progesterone device (Cue-Mate) and 2 mg EB on Day 0; 500 μg of cloprostenol (PGF) and Cue-Mate removal on Day 7; 1 mg of EB on Day 8 and TAI on Day 9 (54 h after Cue-Mate removal). Heifers (n = 150) in the 5-day CO-Synch (CO) group received a Cue-Mate and 100 μg of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) on Day 2; Cue-Mate removal and PGF (twice, 12 h apart) on Day 7; and GnRH along with TAI on Day 10 (72 h after Cue-Mate removal). Heifers (n = 150) in the J-Synch (JS) group received a Cue-Mate and 2 mg of EB on Day 1; PGF and Cue-Mate removal on Day 7; GnRH and TAI on Day 10 (72 h after Cue-Mate removal). Heifers were inseminated by one technician with frozen-thawed conventional semen from one of four commercially available sires. Plasma progesterone (P4) concentrations (ng/mL) were determined at Cue-Mate removal and TAI. Ovarian ultrasonography was done in a subset of 217 heifers at the initiation of protocols, at Cue-Mate removal; TAI; and 7 days after TAI. Approximately, 28 and 50 days after TAI pregnancy status was determined by ultrasonography. Mean (±SEM) plasma P4 concentration at Cue-Mate removal was greater (p < .01) in CO (6.02 ± 0.2) and JS (6.51 ± 0.2) compared to EB heifers (4.53 ± 0.2). Mean (±SEM) plasma P4 concentration at TAI was lowest in the JS (0.28 ± 0.05), intermediate in CO (0.46 ± 0.02), and greatest in EB heifers (0.66 ± 0.05, p < .01). The diameter of the ovulatory follicle (mean ± SEM) was the smallest in the JS group compared to that in the CO and EB groups (15.8 ± 0.5; 13.9 ± 0.5; and 12.7 ± 0.5 mm for EB, CO and JS, respectively). More (p < .01) heifers in the JS group had their oestrous cycle synchronized (50.0, 78.8 and 82.4% for EB, CO and JS groups), and were pregnant at 28 (40.3, 51.3 and 63.3% for EB, CO and JS groups) and 50 days after TAI (32.6, 46.0 and 60.0% for EB, CO and JS groups). In summary, heifers subjected to the J-Synch TAI protocol had lower P4 at TAI, and better overall response to hormonal treatments, which resulted in increased P/AI at 28 and 50 days after TAI compared to those heifers subjected to either a 7-day EB protocol or a 5-day CO-synch protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Dirandeh
- Department of Animal Science, Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University, Sari, Mazandaran, Iran
| | - S Khaninezhad
- Department of Animal Science, Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University, Sari, Mazandaran, Iran
| | - Z Ansari-Pirsaraei
- Department of Animal Science, Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University, Sari, Mazandaran, Iran
| | - Arman Rezaei
- Department of Animal Science, Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University, Sari, Mazandaran, Iran
| | - M G Colazo
- Leduc Farm Animal Hospital, Leduc, Canada
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Simões LMS, Lima EA, Carvalho LR, Martínez MBP, Zanatta GM, Santos MFO, Machado AB, Dias MM, Guerreiro BM, Freitas BG, Bastos MR, Sales JNS. Exposure to progesterone before an ovulation synchronization protocol increases the follicular diameter and fertility of multiparous suckled Bos taurus cows. Theriogenology 2024; 218:239-243. [PMID: 38359562 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.01.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of administering injectable progesterone (P4i) before a timed artificial insemination (TAI) protocol on the follicular growth, ovulation, and pregnancy rate of Bos taurus suckled cows. The effect of P4i administration before the TAI on the pregnancy rate (P/AI) was evaluated in 576 suckled Bos taurus cows at 30-90 days postpartum. In addition, the effect of P4i administration before TAI on follicular dynamics was evaluated in subgroup of 401 suckled Bos taurus cows. On Day -10 (D-10), cows were divided into two experimental groups (Control and P4i). In this moment, P4i cows received i.m. 150 mg of injectable long-action progesterone. After that, both experimental groups received a synchronization protocol (Day 0; D0) that consisted of administration i.m. of 2 mg of estradiol benzoate and a progesterone intravaginal insert on D0. On Day 8 (D8), the progesterone insert was removed, and the cows received 500 μg of cloprostenol, 400 IU of eCG, and 1 mg of estradiol cypionate. TAI was performed 48 h after the removal of the progesterone insert. The ultrasound exams were performed in a subgroup of cows on Days 0, 8, 10 and 12 to evaluate the diameter of the largest follicle, rate of follicular growth and risks of single and double ovulation. The pregnancy diagnosis was performed 30 days after TAI in all cows to determine the pregnancy rate. The diameter of the largest follicle, on D10 (P = 0.84), rate of follicular growth (P = 0.14), ovulation rate (P = 0.40) and double ovulation rates (P = 0.23) did not differ between experimental groups. The pregnancy rate was greater in the P4i group [Control 46.2 % (133/288) vs. P4i 55.6 % (160/288); P = 0.03]. The diameter of the largest follicles (LF) on D0 (Control 11.6 ± 0.2 vs. P4i 13.3 ± 0.3) was greater (P = 0.01) in the P4i group. In conclusion, injectable progesterone before the ovulation synchronization protocol increased the diameter of the largest follicle on the D0 and the pregnancy rate in multiparous Bos taurus suckled beef cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M S Simões
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Lavras (UFLA), Lavras, MG, 37200-900, Brazil.
| | - E A Lima
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Lavras (UFLA), Lavras, MG, 37200-900, Brazil
| | - L R Carvalho
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Lavras (UFLA), Lavras, MG, 37200-900, Brazil
| | - M B P Martínez
- National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), Ciudad de México, 04510, Mexico
| | - G M Zanatta
- Department of Animal Reproduction, FMVZ-USP, São Paulo, SP, 05508-270, Brazil
| | - M F O Santos
- Ritter dos Reis University Center (UniRitter), Porto Alegre, RS, 91240-261, Brazil
| | | | - M M Dias
- Genex, São Carlos, SP, 13563-002, Brazil
| | - B M Guerreiro
- Ourofino Saúde Animal, Cravinhos, SP, 14140-000, Brazil
| | - B G Freitas
- Ourofino Saúde Animal, Cravinhos, SP, 14140-000, Brazil
| | - M R Bastos
- Ourofino Saúde Animal, Cravinhos, SP, 14140-000, Brazil
| | - J N S Sales
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Lavras (UFLA), Lavras, MG, 37200-900, Brazil; Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Juiz de Fora (UFJF), Juiz de Fora, MG, 36010-041, Brazil
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Alshdaifat MM, Serbester U, Obeidat BS, Gorgulu M. Fish Oil Supplementation as an Omega-3 Fatty Acid Source during Gestation: Effects on the Performance of Awassi Ewes and Their Offspring. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3888. [PMID: 38136925 PMCID: PMC10741067 DOI: 10.3390/ani13243888] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The primary aim of this research was to assess the impact of supplementing fish oil into the diet of pregnant Awassi ewes on various aspects of the dam's productive performance, offspring birth weight, colostrum yield and quality, milk production and composition, postpartum offspring performance, and the composition of fatty acids in milk. In this study, two different fat sources, namely palm oil (PO) and fish oil (FO), were utilized, with both being included at a rate of 2.4% of dietary dry matter (DM) during the initial 65 days of gestation (early gestation stage), and then at 2.1% DM from day 65 of gestation until lambing (late gestation stage). The study subjects were Awassi ewes with a body weight (BW) averaging 57 ± 1.5 kg and an age of 3.5 ± 1.2 years. These ewes were randomly assigned to one of four dietary treatments: (i) a diet containing only palm oil from day 0 to day 150 of pregnancy (PO, n = 15); (ii) a diet containing palm oil from day 0 to day 65 of pregnancy, followed by a diet containing fish oil from day 66 to day 150 of pregnancy (POFO, n = 16); (iii) a diet containing fish oil from day 0 to day 65 of pregnancy, followed by a diet containing palm oil from day 66 to day 150 of pregnancy (FOPO, n = 16); (iv) a diet containing only fish oil from day 0 to day 150 of pregnancy (FO, n = 16). Within each treatment, ewes were housed in three replicates, with each replicate further divided into three subgroups. The first two subgroups each contained eight ewes, while the third subgroup contained nine ewes. In addition, each treatment contained 10 primiparous and 15 multiparous ewes. The results indicated that the POFO treatment led to significant increases (p < 0.05) in birth weight, gestation length, and colostrum IgG concentration. However, it also resulted in a decrease (p < 0.001) in colostrum production and a reduction (p < 0.001) in the percentage of milk fat and milk protein. Furthermore, the milk from the POFO treatment exhibited higher levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) (p < 0.001) compared to the PO and FOPO treatments, while the milk saturated fatty acids (SFA) were lower (p < 0.001). In conclusion, the addition of fish oil at a rate of 2.1% DM during the late pregnancy period showed promise for enhancing birth weight, colostrum IgG concentration, and the PUFA content in the milk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa M. Alshdaifat
- Al-Khanasiri Department for Livestock and Rangeland Research, National Agricultural Research Center (NARC), P.O. Box 639, Baqa’a 19381, Jordan;
| | - Ugur Serbester
- Department of Animal Science, Agriculture Faculty, Cukurova University, Adana P.O. Box 01330, Türkiye
| | - Belal S. Obeidat
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 3030, Irbid 22110, Jordan;
| | - Murat Gorgulu
- Makrovit Animal Feeding Technologies, Konya P.O. Box 10757, Türkiye
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Singh H, Pandey AK, Kumar S, Saini G, Duggal R, Bangar YC, Kumar S, Saini R, Kumar H. 5d CIDR-Heatsynch improves the circulatory estradiol levels, estrus expression and conception rate in anestrus buffalo ( Bubalus bubalis). Anim Biotechnol 2023; 34:4488-4499. [PMID: 36576041 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2022.2158337] [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] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate whether increasing estradiol (E2) during preovulatory period would increase estrous expression, luteal profiles and conception rate in 5d CIDR based timed AI protocol. A total 156 anestrus buffalo allocated (78 per group) to either 5d CIDR-Cosynch (d-5: CIDR + GnRH; d0: PGF2α+CIDR removal; 72 h post-CIDR removal: GnRH) or 5d CIDR-Heatsynch (d-5: CIDR + GnRH; d0: PGF2α+CIDR removal; 24 h post-CIDR removal: estradiol benzoate) group. All the buffaloes inseminated at 72 and 84 h post-CIDR removal. A subset of buffalo (n = 58) were subjected to examination of the follicle diameter and luteal profile during protocol, post-AI on days 5 and 12. The buffalo in 5d CIDR-Heatsynch had greater (p < .05) E2 concentrations, estrus induction and increasing trend (p < .08) for conception rate (57.7% vs. 43.6%) than 5d CIDR-Cosynch. The percentage of pregnant buffalo that exhibited estrus signs was greater (p < .01) in 5d CIDR-Heatsynch than 5d CIDR-Cosynch. Positive correlation (p < .01) was observed between POF and E2 concentrations; POF and CL diameter, CL diameter and P4 concentrations. Estrus response and P4 concentrations were indicators of probability of pregnancy. In conclusion, 5d CIDR-Heatsynch tended to improve conception rate. The estrus expression and P4 concentrations (d5 and 12 post-first-AI) is the indicator of probability of pregnancy in buffalo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harender Singh
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Sciences, LUVAS, Hisar, India
| | - Anand Kumar Pandey
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Sciences, LUVAS, Hisar, India
| | - Sandeep Kumar
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Sciences, LUVAS, Hisar, India
| | - Gitesh Saini
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Sciences, LUVAS, Hisar, India
| | - Rakesh Duggal
- Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government Veterinary Hospital, Hisar, India
| | | | - Sandeep Kumar
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Sciences, LUVAS, Hisar, India
| | - Ravinder Saini
- Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government Veterinary Hospital, Hisar, India
| | - Hitesh Kumar
- Division of Animal Reproduction, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, India
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Marques JCS, Maciel JPO, Denis-Robichaud J, Conceicao RS, Bega AM, Moore S, Sirard MA, Baes CF, Cerri RLA. The effect of progesterone concentrations during superovulation of Holstein heifers in a randomized trial. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:9677-9690. [PMID: 37641352 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-23065] [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: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different progesterone (P4) concentrations during the follicular growth on the intensity of estrous expression, ovarian response to the superovulatory treatment, and embryo production and quality in superovulated heifers. A total of 63 Holstein heifers were randomly assigned into 2 experimental groups: Low P4 (n = 31) and High P4 (n = 32). Animals received a pre-synchronization protocol followed by a protocol of superovulation that included the allocated P4 treatment. Activity was monitored continuously by an automated activity monitor, and estrus characteristics (maximum intensity and duration) were recorded. Embryo collection was performed 7 d post artificial insemination (AI). Embryos were counted and graded from good or excellent (1) to degenerated (4). The outcomes of interest were: number and diameter of follicles at the time of AI, ovulation success (confirmed 7 d post-AI), time to estrus event, maximum intensity and duration of estrus, number and quality of embryos. Data were analyzed according to the type of outcome variable using logistic, linear, or Poisson regression models. A total of 105 embryos (High P4: n = 42; Low P4: n = 63) were graded for quality. Different P4 levels did not affect the maximum intensity (High P4 = 497.8 ± 23.9%; Low P4 = 542.2 ± 23.5%) or the duration (High P4 = 13.5 ± 1.5 h; Low P4 = 14.3 ± 1.4 h) of estrus. Heifers in the High P4 treatment had greater number of follicles at time of AI (High P4 = 16.6 ± 1.6 follicles; Low P4 = 13.9 ± 1.2 follicles), but with smaller diameter (High P4 = 11.3 ± 0.1 mm; Low P4 = 12.0 ± 0.1 mm) compared with Low P4. High P4 heifers tended to have better embryo quality compared with Low P4 heifers (odds ratio = 1.98; 95% CI = 0.90-4.35). High P4 heifers had less embryos than Low P4 heifers, but this was modified by the CIDR (intravaginal implant of P4) removal to estrus interval (interval 0-21 h: mean ratio = 1.15, 95% CI = 0.42-1.87; interval 22-46 h: mean ratio = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.27-0.96). Although estrous expression was not associated with embryo quality, as the duration and the maximum intensity of estrous expression increased, the number of embryos recovered 7 d post-AI increased (duration: mean ratio = 1.04; 95% CI = 1.03-1.05; maximum intensity: mean ratio = 1.50; 95% CI = 1.42-1.58). In conclusion, P4 during the follicular growth, and intensity of estrus, are playing a role in regulating the quality and the number of embryos produced by superovulated heifers. This study was supported by contributions from Resilient Dairy Genome Project and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C S Marques
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - J P O Maciel
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Rural Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife 52171-900, Canada
| | - J Denis-Robichaud
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - R S Conceicao
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - A M Bega
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, São Paulo State University, Botucatu 18168-000, Canada
| | - S Moore
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - M A Sirard
- Department of Animal Sciences, Laval University, Quebec G1K 7P4, Canada
| | - C F Baes
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - R L A Cerri
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada.
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Lockhart KN, Fallon LC, Ortega MS. Paternal determinants of early embryo development. Reprod Fertil Dev 2023; 36:43-50. [PMID: 38064190 DOI: 10.1071/rd23172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Existing research has primarily focused on investigating the impacts of the maternal environment, female fertility phenotype, and genetics on pregnancy loss in dairy cattle. Recently, attention has been directed toward understanding the role the sire has on embryo quality and viability. Studies have shown there is a paternal influence on early pregnancy loss, but the specific mechanisms impacting pregnancy establishment and maintenance remain unclear. Despite clear differences that sires have on pregnancy outcomes, there is a lack of evidence regarding specifically how sires influence pregnancy. Sperm characteristics, such as motility, concentration, and morphology, have been extensively studied, but further research is needed to understand what makes one sire more or less fertile than another sire and how this affects pregnancy. To effectively address pregnancy loss, a deeper understanding of the processes involved from fertilisation to blastocyst formation is essential, particularly for understanding early pregnancy loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey N Lockhart
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Lindsey C Fallon
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - M Sofia Ortega
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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9
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Sharawy HA, Hegab AO, Elmetwally MA. Impact of the corpus luteum and follicular parameters on the levels of plasma progesterone and the prediction of pregnancy in Holstein dairy cows. Reprod Domest Anim 2023; 58:1525-1531. [PMID: 37650349 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14464] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate the reliability of corpus luteum and dominant follicles, imaging parameters on the plasma progesterone, and prediction of pregnancy in cows. In total, 48 cows were used in this study and underwent Ovsynch program. Ultrasound imaging of the ovaries was done at the time of PG shots. Corpus luteum diameter (CL_d), area (CL_area), volume (CL_vol), and pixels (CL_PXL), as well as dominant follicle diameter (F_d) and area (F_area), were estimated using the ImageJ program. Blood samples were taken to assess progesterone (P4) concentrations. Pregnancy status was determined at 32 ± 3 days after insemination using an ultrasound "Sonoscape-5 V." Data were analysed using correlation analysis and ROC curves. Plasma P4 concentration showed positive correlation with CL_d (r = .68, p < .01), CL_area (r = .45, p < .01), CL_volume (r = .41, p < .01), and CL_pixels (r = .67, p < .01). The ROC curve indicated that P4 concentrations and CL parameters, especially the CL_pixels, were the best predictors of the pregnancy, among the others that were able to detect pregnancy at the time of PG with the best P4 and CL_pixels cut-off value (4.1 ng/mL and 43.18) and AUC was (0.95 and 0.89); resp. (p < .001). Regarding the other parameters, it was possible to set AUC 0.79, 0.79, and 0.68 for CL_d, area, and volume with a sensitivity of 66.7%, 70.8%, and 66.7% and a specificity of 88.2%, 82.4%, and 70.4% (p < .01), respectively. The AUC for both the follicular diameter and F_area was (0.56) with a sensitivity of 58.33% and 70.8% and a specificity of 62.5% and 50% (p > .05), respectively. In conclusion, CL measurements and progesterone concentrations had the greatest pregnancy prediction in Holstein dairy cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heba A Sharawy
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
- Center for Reproductive Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - AbdelRaouf O Hegab
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Mohammed A Elmetwally
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
- Center for Reproductive Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
- Mansoura Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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10
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Praxitelous A, Katsoulos PD, Tsaousioti A, Brozos C, Theodosiadou EK, Boscos CM, Tsousis G. Ovarian and Energy Status in Lame Dairy Cows at Puerperium and Their Responsiveness in Protocols for the Synchronization of Ovulation. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13091537. [PMID: 37174574 PMCID: PMC10177297 DOI: 10.3390/ani13091537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to assess the ovarian and energy status of multiparous lame dairy cows at the end of puerperium and investigate their responsiveness to estrous synchronization treatment regimens. Initial lameness scoring was performed at 28 ± 5 and 37 ± 5 d post partum, followed by lesion documentation and treatment. Cows were blocked by lameness severity and were randomly allocated to an estrous synchronization treatment regimen with seven days of progesterone supplementation (group LP, n = 26) or with an administration of PGF2α twice, 14 d apart (group LC, n = 26). Non-lame cows served as controls (group C, n = 27) and the same treatment regimen was imposed as that for group LC. Twelve days after estrous presynchronization, an Ovsynch treatment regimen and timed AI were imposed. Ultrasonography of the ovaries and blood sampling for progesterone were used to assess cyclicity status, whereas β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) were used to assess energy status. Lame cows were to a greater proportion non-cycling (36.5% vs. 11.1%; p = 0.02), had greater overall NEFA concentrations (0.32 ± 0.02 vs. 0.26 ± 0.02 mEq/L; p = 0.02) and a greater incidence of elevated NEFA concentrations (53.9% vs. 29.6%, p = 0.04) compared to control cows. However, no interaction between energy and lameness status was evident regarding non-cycling cows. The percentage of cows responding to the presynchronization, synchronization and ovulating did not differ between groups LP, LC, and C. The first-service conception rate (FSCR) tended to be greater for group C (37.0%) compared to group LP (16.0%; p = 0.08). Long-term reproductive performance did not differ between lame and control cows, although culling rates did (21.2% vs. 0%, respectivly; p = 0.01). The severity of lameness had an effect on culling rates (30.6% vs. 0% for cows with marked vs. moderate lameness; p = 0.01), whereas the type of lesion largely explained poor reproductive performance (FSCR 13.9% vs. 40.0% for cows with claw horn disruptions vs. infectious lesions; p = 0.04). Conclusively, cows that were lame during puerperium are at a greater risk of not cycling irrespective of energy status. Treatment regimens for the synchronization of ovulation seem to be efficient at resuming ovarian cyclicity. Marked lameness was detrimental to survivability, whereas cows with claw horn lesions had compromised reproductive capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Praxitelous
- Clinic of Farm Animals, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54627 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Panagiotis D Katsoulos
- Clinic of Farm Animals, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54627 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Angeliki Tsaousioti
- Clinic of Farm Animals, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54627 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Christos Brozos
- Clinic of Farm Animals, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54627 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ekaterini K Theodosiadou
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece
| | - Constantin M Boscos
- Clinic of Farm Animals, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54627 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Tsousis
- Clinic of Farm Animals, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54627 Thessaloniki, Greece
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11
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Costa CB, Fair T, Seneda MM. Review: Environment of the ovulatory follicle: modifications and use of biotechnologies to enhance oocyte competence and increase fertility in cattle. Animal 2023; 17 Suppl 1:100866. [PMID: 37567670 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2023.100866] [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: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The oocyte is the basis of life, supporting development from a fertilized cell to an independent multicellular organism. The oocyte's competence to drive the first cell cycles postfertilization are critical to embryonic survival and subsequent successful pregnancy. Coupled with the complex processes of follicle assembly, activation, differentiation, growth, and terminal maturation, oocyte developmental competence is gradually acquired during oocyte growth and meiotic maturation. Most reproduction management technologies and interventions are centered around these highly coordinated processes, targeting the ovarian follicle and the oocyte within. Thus, our objective was to highlight key aspects of oocyte and follicle development in cattle, and to discuss recent advances in oocyte and follicle-centered reproductive biotechnologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Bortoliero Costa
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Sciences and Languages, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Campus Assis, São Paulo, Brazil; Graduate Program in Pharmacology and Biotechnology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Trudee Fair
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Marcelo M Seneda
- State University of Londrina (UEL), Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Londrina, PR, Brazil.
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12
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Pursley JR, Santos A, Minela T. Review: Initial increase in pregnancy-specific protein B in maternal circulation after artificial insemination is a key indicator of embryonic survival in dairy cows. Animal 2023; 17 Suppl 1:100746. [PMID: 37567663 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2023.100746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Lactating dairy cows have reduced chances for pregnancy survival following 1st parturition. It appears that timing of conceptus attachment, defined as an initial daily rise in pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) postartificial insemination (AI), is key to the survival of the embryo. PSPB is a protein produced from binucleate cells of the trophectoderm of the conceptus. Once the conceptus has attached to the uterine epithelial cells, this large protein is detectable in maternal circulation. Daily sampling of serum allows for detection of the initial increase of PSPB. A percent increase threshold for PSPB was determined from results from each study using a conservative three-day minimum increase. Thus far, a 10 or 12.5% daily increase for three consecutive days had the greatest sensitivities and specificities for studies reported in this review. Nulliparous heifers receiving AI following estrus appear to have a reduced time to conceptus attachment compared to lactating cows that received either Ovsynch or AI following estrus. Increasing progesterone post-AI did not reduce time to conceptus attachment in lactating cows. Multiparous cows treated post-AI with human chorionic gonadotropin had a reduced percent with conceptus attachment in addition to greater time to conceptus attachment. Increased time to conceptus attachment increased the chances of multiparous cows having embryonic death before 35 d post-AI. Concentrations of PSPB are consistently reduced from conceptus attachment until d 28 post-AI in cows with pregnancy loss compared to cows that maintain pregnancy on d 34 post-AI. This novel model to determine timing of conceptus attachment provides a new perspective on percent of cows pregnant around d 20-23 post-AI and the potential for a greater understanding of subsequent pregnancy loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- J R Pursley
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
| | - Alisson Santos
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Thainá Minela
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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13
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Enhanced progesterone support during stimulated cycles of transvaginal follicular aspiration improves bovine in vitro embryo production. Theriogenology 2023; 199:77-85. [PMID: 36706702 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The in vitro production (IVP) of cattle embryos requires that germinal-vesicle stage oocytes undergo a period of maturation in vitro prior to fertilization and culture to the blastocyst stage. Success of IVP in taurine cattle is enhanced following ovarian stimulation prior to oocyte retrieval (OPU), particularly if preceded by a short period of FSH withdrawal ('coasting'). However, evidence regarding the importance of progesterone (P4) support during OPU-IVP is equivocal. The current study, therefore, determined the effects of increased peripheral P4 concentrations during FSH-stimulated ('coasted') cycles of OPU. Progesterone support was provided by either an active corpus luteum (CL) and/or one of two intravaginal P4 releasing devices (i.e., CIDR® [1.38 g P4] or PRID® Delta [1.55 g P4]). Expt. 1 established an initial estrus prior to OPU, allowing CL formation (single luteal phase) spanning the first two of five cycles of OPU; the remaining three cycles were supported by either a CIDR® or PRID® Delta. Expt. 2 commenced with two cycles of dominant follicle removal (including prostaglandin F2α) undertaken seven days apart prior to six cycles of OPU. The absence of a CL meant that these cycles were supported only by a CIDR® or PRID® Delta. As each experiment involved several sequential cycles of OPU, the cumulative effects of device use on vaginal discharges were also assessed. Each experiment involved 10 sexually mature Holstein heifers. In the absence of a CL, peak plasma P4 concentrations were greater (P = 0.002) for the PRID® Delta (4.3 ± 0.22) than for the CIDR® (2.9 ± 0.22). In Expt. 1 there was an interaction (P < 0.05) between CL presence at OPU and P4 device on Day 8 blastocyst yields, indicating an effect of P4 device only when the CL was absent. The percentage hatching/hatched blastocysts of matured oocytes for the CIDR® and PRID® Delta was 44.3 ± 5.04 and 41.0 ± 5.40 in the presence, and 17.1 ± 3.48 and 42.2 ± 3.76 in the absence, of a CL (P = 0.018). Combined analyses of data from Expt. 1 and 2, when no CL was present, confirmed that Day 8 blastocyst yields were greater (P = 0.022) for the PRID® Delta than the CIDR®. Vaginal discharge scores were higher (P < 0.001) for the PRID® Delta than the CIDR® in Expt. 1 but not in Expt 2; however scores were low, did not increase with repeated use, and thus were deemed of no clinical or welfare concern. In conclusion, enhanced P4 support during FSH-stimulated cycles of OPU-IVP can improve in vitro embryo development.
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Impaired luteal progesterone synthesis observed in gilts with PMSG/hCG-induced estrus affects the expression of steroid, prostaglandin, and cytokine receptors in the endometrium and myometrium during the peri-implantation period. ANNALS OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2023. [DOI: 10.2478/aoas-2022-0076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
The present study aimed to examine the effect of impaired progesterone (P4) synthesis, observed in gilts with gonadotropin-induced estrus, on the uterine expression of receptors important for pregnancy establishment. Twenty prepubertal gilts received 750 IU PMSG and 500 IU hCG 72 h later, while 18 prepubertal gilts in the control group were observed daily for estrus behavior. Gilts were inseminated in their first estrus and slaughtered on days 10, 12, and 15 of pregnancy to collect endometrial and myometrial tissues for mRNA analysis using real-time PCR. As we previously described, gilts with PMSG/hCG-induced estrus showed decreased luteal P4 synthesis on days 10 and 12 of pregnancy. PMSG/hCG treatment did not affect P4 receptor mRNA expression in either uterine tissue. In the endometrium, a greater mRNA transcript abundance of estrogen receptors (ESR1 and ESR2), androgen receptor (AR), prostaglandin (PG) E2 receptors (PTGER2 and PTGER4), PGF2α receptor (PTGFR), interleukin 6 receptor (IL6R), and tumor necrosis factor α receptors (TNFRSF1A and TNFRSF1B) was detected in gilts with natural than with PMSG/hCG-induced estrus (P<0.05). In the myometrium, the mRNA expression of AR, PTGER2, and PTGFR was lower, while PGI2 receptor (PTGIR) transcript abundance was elevated in the gilts treated with PMSG/hCG as compared with the control animals (P<0.05). In summary, a decreased luteal P4 level during the peri-implantation period in gonadotropin-stimulated pigs affects endometrial and myometrial receptor expression, with the endometrium being more sensitive to impaired P4 synthesis. Whether the observed changes alter uterine receptivity to local and systemic factors remains to be elucidated.
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15
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Poole RK, Pickett AT, Oliveira Filho RV, de Melo GD, Palanisamy V, Chitlapilly Dass S, Cooke RF, Pohler KG. Shifts in uterine bacterial communities associated with endogenous progesterone and 17β-estradiol concentrations in beef cattle. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2023; 82:106766. [PMID: 36182815 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2022.106766] [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: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The relation between circulating concentrations of progesterone and 17β-estradiol prior to insemination play a key role in optimizing fertility in cattle. This study aimed to determine the impact of endogenous progesterone (P4) and estradiol (E2) concentrations on uterine bacterial community abundance and diversity in beef cattle. Angus-influenced heifers were subjected to an industry standard estrous synchronization protocol. Uterine flushes were collected on d -2 (endogenous P4) and d 0 (endogenous E2) and used for targeting the V4 hypervariable region of 16S rRNA bacterial gene. Plasma was collected on d -2 and 0 for quantification of P4 and E2 concentrations by radioimmunoassay, respectively. Heifers were allotted to one of the following groups: High P4 + High E2 (H-H; n = 11), High P4 + Low E2 (H-L; n = 9), Low P4 + High E2 (L-H; n = 9), Low P4 + Low E2 (L-L; n = 11). Results indicated that Shannon's diversity index tended to be greater for H-L heifers compared to L-H heifers on d 0 (P = 0.10). For H-L heifers from d -2 to d 0, the relative abundance of Actinobacteria decreased and Tenericutes increased (P < 0.01). Within phylum Actinobacteria, the relative abundance of Corynebacterium decreased from d -2 to d 0 in treatment groups H-H, H-L, and L-L (P < 0.05); however, did not differ by d for L-H heifers. Within phylum Tenericutes, the relative abundance of Ureaplasma increased from d -2 to d 0 for H-L heifers (P = 0.01). Additionally for H-L heifers, the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes tended to increase from day -2 to on d 0 (P = 0.07). For H-L heifers, uterine pH increased from day -2 to d 0 (P = 0.05). These results suggest that differing endogenous concentrations of P4 and E2 may be associated with shifts in uterine microbiota and pH, and this could ultimately impact fertility outcomes in beef cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- R K Poole
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - A T Pickett
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - R V Oliveira Filho
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - G D de Melo
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - V Palanisamy
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - S Chitlapilly Dass
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - R F Cooke
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - K G Pohler
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
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16
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Sanz A, Gobikrushanth M, Colazo MG. Type of CIDR but not eCG administration affected pregnancy per AI in Holstein heifers subjected to a 5-day estrus synchronization protocol. JOURNAL OF APPLIED ANIMAL RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/09712119.2022.2106989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Albina Sanz
- Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria de Aragón (CITA) - IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Mohanathas Gobikrushanth
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Marcos G. Colazo
- Department of Agricultural Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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17
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Takata N, Myburgh J, Botha A, Nomngongo PN. The importance and status of the micronutrient selenium in South Africa: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2022; 44:3703-3723. [PMID: 34708333 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-021-01126-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Selenium (Se) is a vital micronutrient with widespread biological action but leads to toxicity when taken in excessive amounts. The biological benefits of Se are mainly derived from its presence in active sites of selenoproteins such as glutathione peroxidase (GPx). An enzyme whose role is to protect tissues against oxidative stress by catalysing the reduction of peroxidase responsible for various forms of cellular damage. The benefits of Se can be harvested when proper regulations of its intake are used. In South Africa, Se distribution in people's diets and animals are low with socio-economic factors and heterogeneous spread of Se in soil throughout the country playing a significant role. The possible causes of low Se in soils may be influenced by underlying geological material, climatic conditions, and anthropogenic activities. Sedimentary rock formations show higher Se concentrations compared to igneous and metamorphic rock formations. Higher Se concentrations in soils dominates in humid and sub-humid areas of South Africa. Furthermore, atmospheric acid deposition dramatically influences the availability of Se to plants. The studies reviewed in this article have shown that atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) is the most utilised analytical technique for total Se concentration determination in environmental samples and there is a lack of speciation data for Se concentrations. Shortcomings in Se studies have been identified, and the future research directions of Se in South Africa have been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nwabisa Takata
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein Campus, P.O. Box 17011, Doornfontein, 2028, South Africa
- National Metrology Institute of South Africa, CSIR Campus, Building 5, Meiring Naude Road, Brummeria, Pretoria, 0182, South Africa
| | - Jan Myburgh
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
| | - Angelique Botha
- National Metrology Institute of South Africa, CSIR Campus, Building 5, Meiring Naude Road, Brummeria, Pretoria, 0182, South Africa
| | - Philiswa Nosizo Nomngongo
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein Campus, P.O. Box 17011, Doornfontein, 2028, South Africa.
- Department of Science and Innovation (DSI)/National Research Foundation (NRF) South African Research Chair (SARChI): Nanotechnology for Water, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein, 2028, South Africa.
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18
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Cunha TO, Martins JPN. Graduate Student Literature Review: Effects of human chorionic gonadotropin on follicular and luteal dynamics and fertility in cattle. J Dairy Sci 2022; 105:8401-8410. [PMID: 35965118 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-21991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Circulating progesterone concentrations during the growth of the ovulatory follicle and early embryo development have been positively associated with embryo quality and survival and pregnancy success. As a potent luteotropic agent with LH-like activity, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) has been tested in different studies to improve pregnancy outcomes by increasing circulating progesterone concentrations during the growth of the ovulatory follicle or early embryonic development. Nevertheless, hCG has produced inconsistent, contradictory, and intriguing results. Furthermore, recent research indicates that hCG, when used before artificial insemination, may affect physiological events necessary for the ovulation of a viable oocyte. In addition, the use of hCG-inducing accessory corpus luteum during the estrous cycle seems to disturb luteolysis and follicle and luteal dynamics during the estrous cycle. This literature review discusses past and current research exploring the effects of hCG on the estrous cycle characteristics and pregnancy per artificial insemination and embryo transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- T O Cunha
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706; Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706.
| | - J P N Martins
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
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19
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Crites BR, Carr SN, Anderson LH, Matthews JC, Bridges PJ. Form of dietary selenium affects mRNA encoding interferon-stimulated and progesterone-induced genes in the bovine endometrium and conceptus length at maternal recognition of pregnancy. J Anim Sci 2022; 100:skac137. [PMID: 35772751 PMCID: PMC9246668 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Widespread regions of the southeast United States have soils, and hence forages, deficient in selenium (Se), necessitating Se supplementation to grazing cattle for optimal immune function, growth, and fertility. We have reported that supplementation with an isomolar 1:1 mix (MIX) of inorganic (ISe) and organic (OSe) forms of Se increases early luteal phase (LP) concentrations of progesterone (P4) above that in cows on ISe or OSe alone. Increased early LP P4 advances embryonic development. Our objective was to determine the effects of the form of Se on the development of the bovine conceptus and the endometrium using targeted real-time PCR (qPCR) on day 17 of gestation, the time of maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP). Angus-cross yearling heifers underwent 45-d Se-depletion then repletion periods, then at least 90 d of supplementation (TRT) with 35 ppm Se per day as either ISe (n = 10) or MIX (n = 10). Heifers were inseminated to a single sire after detected estrus (day 0). On day 17 of gestation, caruncular (CAR) and intercaruncular (ICAR) endometrial samples and the developing conceptus were recovered from pregnant heifers (ISe, n = 6 and MIX, n = 6). qPCR was performed to determine the relative abundance of targeted transcripts in CAR and ICAR samples, with the expression data subjected to one-way ANOVA to determine TRT effects. The effect of TRT on conceptus development was analyzed using a one-tailed Student's t-test. When compared with ISe-treated heifers, MIX heifers had decreased (P < 0.05) abundance of several P4-induced and interferon-stimulated mRNA transcripts, including IFIT3, ISG15, MX1, OAS2, RSAD2, DGAT2, FGF2 in CAR and DKK1 in ICAR samples and tended (P ≤ 0.10) to have decreased mRNA abundance of IRF1, IRF2, FOXL2, and PGR in CAR samples, and HOXA10 and PAQR7 in ICAR samples. In contrast, MIX-supplemented heifers had increased (P < 0.05) mRNA abundance of MSTN in ICAR samples and an increase in conceptus length (ISe: 17.45 ± 3.08 cm vs. MIX: 25.96 ± 3.95 cm; P = 0.05). Notably, myostatin increases glucose secretion into histotroph and contributes to advanced conceptus development. This advancement in conceptus development occurred in the presence of similar concentrations of serum P4 (P = 0.88) and whole blood Se (P = 0.07) at MRP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin R Crites
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546, USA
| | - Sarah N Carr
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546, USA
| | - Leslie H Anderson
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546, USA
| | - James C Matthews
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546, USA
| | - Phillip J Bridges
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546, USA
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Crites BR, Carr SN, Matthews JC, Bridges PJ. Form of dietary selenium affects mRNA encoding cholesterol biosynthesis and immune response elements in the early luteal phase bovine corpus luteum. J Anim Sci 2022; 100:6620782. [PMID: 35772747 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Widespread regions of the southeast United States have soils, and hence forages, deficient in selenium (Se), necessitating Se supplementation to grazing cattle for optimal immune function, growth, and fertility. We have reported that supplementation with an isomolar 1:1 mix (MIX) of inorganic (ISe) and organic (OSe) forms of Se increases early luteal phase (LP) progesterone (P4) above that in cows on ISe alone. Increased early LP P4 advances embryonic development. Our objective was to determine the effect of form of Se on the transcriptome of the early LP corpus luteum (CL) with the goal of elucidating form of Se-regulated processes affecting luteal steroidogenesis and function. Non-lactating, 3-yr-old Angus-cross cows underwent 45-d Se-depletion, then repletion periods, and then at least 90 d of supplementation (TRT) with 35 ppm Se/d as either ISe (n = 5) or MIX (n = 5). CL were then recovered on day 7 of the estrous cycle, total RNA isolated, and the effect of TRT on the luteal transcriptome evaluated using bovine gene 1.0 ST arrays (Affymetrix, Inc., Santa Clara, CA). The abundance of transcripts in each CL was subjected to one-way ANOVA using Partek Genomic Suite software to determine TRT effects. Microarray analysis indicated a total of 887 transcripts that were differentially expressed and functionally annotated, with 423 and 464 up- and down-regulated (P < 0.05) in MIX vs. ISe CL, respectively. Bioinformatic analysis (Ingenuity Pathway Analysis) revealed the top TRT-affected canonical pathways to include seven specific to cholesterol biosynthesis and two to inflammatory responses. Results from the microarray analysis were corroborated by targeted real-time PCR. MIX CL had increased (P < 0.05) abundance of transcripts regulating cholesterol biosynthesis including DHCR7, DHCR24, and CYP51A1 (fold changes of 1.65, 1.48, and 1.40, respectively), suggesting MIX-induced increases in P4 to be due, in part, to increased availability of substrate to luteal cells. In addition, MIX CL had increased (P < 0.05) abundance of immune-response transcripts including C1QC, FAS, ILR8B, and IL1R1 (fold changes of 2.30, 1.74, 1.66, and 1.63, respectively). SREBF1 mRNA was also increased (1.32-fold, P < 0.05) in the MIX CL, which increases cholesterol synthesis and stimulates IL1B, linking effects of form of supplemental Se (TRT) on cholesterol biosynthesis and immune function in the CL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin R Crites
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546, USA
| | - Sarah N Carr
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546, USA
| | - James C Matthews
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546, USA
| | - Phillip J Bridges
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546, USA
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21
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Progestogen supplementation during superovulation leads to higher embryo viability and TGFB1 gene expression in sheep. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 238:106938. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2022.106938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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22
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Hormonal Management for the Induction of Luteolysis and Ovulation in Andalusian Jennies: Effect on Reproductive Performance, Embryo Quality and Recovery Rate. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12020143. [PMID: 35049767 PMCID: PMC8772578 DOI: 10.3390/ani12020143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Two prostanglandins (luprostiol, LUP, and dinoprost, DIN) and two ovulation-inducing agents (human Chorionic Gonadotropin, hCG, and deslorelin, DES) were evaluated for luteolysis and estrus induction, and for ovulation induction, respectively, in embryo donor jennies. Twenty-six fertile Andalusian jennies were used. In Experiment 1, jennies (n = 112 cycles) were randomly treated with either LUP or DIN after embryo flushing. In Experiment 2, donors (n = 84 cycles) were randomly treated with either hCG or DES to induce ovulation. No differences were found between prostaglandins for all variables studied (prostaglandin–ovulation interval (POI), interovulatory interval (IOI), embryo recovery rate (ERR), positive flushing rate (PFR) and embryo grade (EG)). The ovulation rate was similar for hCG and DES (60.9% vs. 78.7%). However, the interval to ovulation (ITO) was affected (62.61 ± 7.20 vs. 48.79 ± 2.69 h). None of the other variables studied (ERR, PFR and EG) were affected (p > 0.05), except for embryo quality (p = 0.009). In short, both prostaglandins evaluated are adequate to induce luteolysis and estrus. Both ovulation-inducing agents hastened ovulation, but DES seems to be more effective than hCG. Follicular diameter affected the interval from treatment to ovulation, and high uterine edema was related to low embryo quality.
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23
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Mitsuishi H, Natsubori E, Otsuka T, Yayota M. High β
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carotene concentration in plasma enhances cyclic progesterone production in nonpregnant Japanese Black cows. Anim Sci J 2022; 93:e13782. [PMID: 36345759 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
β-Carotene is an essential nutrient in cattle reproduction. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of β-carotene supplementation on ovarian activities throughout the estrous cycle in nonpregnant Japanese Black cows. The estrous cycles of eight nonpregnant Japanese Black cows were synchronized using a double synch protocol, and the cows were divided into two groups. The cows in the β-carotene (BC) group received supplementation with 1000 mg/day β-carotene for 46 days including the synchronization period. The cows in the control (C) group did not receive β-carotene supplementation. The results showed that β-carotene supplementation at 1000 mg/day was sufficient to maintain a high plasma β-carotene concentration and increase the plasma retinol concentration and that β-carotene supplementation had no significant effects on the dominant follicle diameter, total number of estrus behaviors, or length of the estrous cycle. In contrast, the areas under the P4 concentration curves in the BC group were higher than those obtained for the C group. In conclusion, a high plasma β-carotene concentration in Japanese Black cows promotes P4 production in the luteal phase of the estrous cycle and total P4 production throughout the estrous cycle without changing the length of the estrous cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Mitsuishi
- The United Graduate School of Agricultural Science Gifu University Gifu Japan
| | - Eri Natsubori
- Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences Gifu University Gifu Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Otsuka
- Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences Gifu University Gifu Japan
| | - Masato Yayota
- Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences Gifu University Gifu Japan
- Education and Research Center for Food Animal Health Gifu University (GeFAH) Gifu Japan
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24
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Yoshiyama T, Kanazawa T, Takahashi T. Follicular dynamics during the pre-ovulatory and subsequent first follicular wave stages affect the pregnancy outcome in Japanese Black cows. J Reprod Dev 2021; 67:345-351. [PMID: 34556611 PMCID: PMC8668376 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2021-024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The diameters of the pre-ovulatory follicles (PF) and the largest follicle during the subsequent first follicular wave (W1LF), and plasma estradiol-17β (E2) concentrations were
monitored on Days 0, 1, 3, 5, and 7 (ovulation = Day 1). Pregnancy was diagnosed on Day 30. Cows were classified into two groups according to the location of the dominant follicle
ipsilateral (IG) or contralateral (CG) to the corpus luteum on Day 7. From Days 3 to 7, some follicles that had been determined as the subordinate in the previous examination exceeded the
W1LF located in the opposite ovary in terms of the diameter. These were defined as switching (SW), whereas others were defined as non-switching (NSW). The diameter of PF was significantly
smaller in pregnant (P) animals than in non-pregnant (NP) animals. The plasma E2 concentration on Day 0 was significantly higher in P animals than in NP animals and tended to be
higher in NSW than in SW. In addition, plasma E2 concentrations around Days 3 to 7 tended to be higher in P animals of NSW than in NP animals of SW. The conception rates did not
differ between IG and CG but were significantly higher in NSW than in SW. In the IG group, the conception rate tended to be higher in NSW than in SW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsumugi Yoshiyama
- Cooperative Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Iwate University, Iwate 020-8550, Japan.,Fukushima Prefectural Federated Agricultural Aid Association, Fukushima 963-6311, Japan
| | - Tomomi Kanazawa
- Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Iwate University, Iwate 020-8550, Japan
| | - Toru Takahashi
- Cooperative Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Iwate University, Iwate 020-8550, Japan.,Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Iwate University, Iwate 020-8550, Japan
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25
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Rojas Canadas E, Herlihy MM, Kenneally J, Kearney F, Furlong J, Lonergan P, Butler ST. Plasma progesterone concentration after first service is associated with individual genetic traits, postpartum phenotypes, and likelihood of conception in seasonal-calving pasture-based dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2021; 104:12968-12979. [PMID: 34482975 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-20126] [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: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The aims of this study were to (1) evaluate postpartum phenotypes, cow factors, and genetic traits associated with plasma progesterone (P4) concentrations after first artificial insemination (AI); (2) determine variation in daily plasma P4 concentrations between d 7 and 13 after first AI; and (3) evaluate associations between plasma P4 concentrations and pregnancy success after first AI. First and second parity (n = 2,797) spring-calving lactating dairy cows from 35 dairy herds were enrolled. Farm visits were performed every 2 wk during the postpartum period as follows: cows that were at wk 3 (range: 14-27 d in milk) and wk 7 (range: 42-55 d in milk) postpartum were examined. Farm visits were performed weekly during the breeding season, and cows that were between 7 and 13 d after the first AI were examined. Body condition score (BCS) was measured at each visit using a 1 to 5 scale [low (≤2.75), target (≥3.0)]. Transrectal ultrasound examinations were conducted at wk 3 and wk 7 postpartum visits to determine presence or absence of a corpus luteum (CL) and uterine tract score [scale of G1 (best)-G4 (worst)]. Blood samples were collected at each visit, and plasma concentrations of glucose, β-hydroxybutyrate, and fatty acids were analyzed. On the day of the weekly farm visit during the breeding season, blood samples for P4 determination were collected from all cows that were between 7 and 13 d after first AI during the breeding period. Cows that had a CL present and a G1 uterine score at wk 7 postpartum had greater plasma P4 concentration after first AI (+0.67 ng/mL and +0.4 ng/mL, respectively) compared with cows with no CL present and with a uterine score ≥G3. Cows with low BCS at wk 7 postpartum had lesser plasma P4 concentration after first AI than cows with target BCS. Each unit increase in plasma fatty acids and β-hydroxybutyrate concentration at AI was associated with 0.45 ± 0.33 ng/mL (estimate ± standard error) and 0.07 ± 0.04 ng/mL greater plasma P4 concentration after first AI, respectively. Regarding genetic merit traits, each unit increase in fertility subindex was associated with 0.005 ± 0.003 ng/mL greater P4 concentration. In addition, for every 1 ng/mL increase in plasma P4 concentration, the odds of estimated probability of pregnancy per AI increased by 3% (odds ratio = 1.03; 95% confidence interval = 1.00, 1.05). In conclusion, cows with superior genetic merit for fertility traits and milk production traits, favorable fertility phenotypes at wk 7 postpartum, (e.g., presence of a CL, a G1 uterine score, and target BCS), and blood parameters indicative of better metabolic status at AI were all associated with greater plasma P4 concentration after AI. In turn, greater plasma P4 concentrations were associated with greater odds of successful pregnancy establishment. This study underlines the important associations between early postpartum fertility phenotypes (CL presence, uterine health status) and subsequent plasma P4 concentrations after first AI, and hence provides additional evidence of the mechanisms through which selection for fertility traits improves phenotypic fertility performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Rojas Canadas
- Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland, P61 C996; School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland, D04 N2E
| | - M M Herlihy
- Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland, P61 C996
| | - J Kenneally
- Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland, P61 C996
| | - F Kearney
- Irish Cattle Breeding Association, Highfield House, Shinagh, Bandon, Co. Cork, Ireland, P72 X050
| | - J Furlong
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland, D04 N2E
| | - P Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland, D04 N2E
| | - S T Butler
- Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland, P61 C996.
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Plasma concentrations of progesterone in the preceding estrous cycle are associated with the intensity of estrus and fertility of Holstein cows. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0248453. [PMID: 34370740 PMCID: PMC8351919 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0248453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the association between concentrations of progesterone (P4) during previous the estrous cycle with the intensity of spontaneous or estrogen-induced estrous expression and pregnancy per artificial insemination (P/AI). A total of 1,953 AI events from lactating Holstein cows were used, consisting of 1,289 timed AI events from experiment 1 (Exp. 1) and 664 AI events from experiment 2 (Exp. 2). In Exp. 1, cows were bred after a timed AI protocol based on estradiol and P4. In Exp. 2 animals were bred upon spontaneous estrus detection. In both experiments cows were continuously monitored by an automated activity monitor (AAM), in Exp.1 a relative increase of activity was calculated (i.e., percentage of increase activity at estrus compared to cow's baseline activity) and in Exp.2, activity data from each cow were computed into an index value that ranged from 0 to 100. In Exp.2 duration (hours) of estrus were calculated and defined as the total time above the threshold (35 index). The intensity of estrous expression was determined for each event and classified as either high or low intensity using the median of each experiment. Blood samples were collected for P4 analysis in Exp. 1 at -4 d, 0 d, and 7 d relative to timed AI, and in Exp. 2 immediately following estrus (0 d), 7 d, 14 d, and 21 d post-AI. Concentration of P4 was classified as greater or lower according to the median value in each experiment. Cows with lower concentrations of P4 at AI had greater estrous expression in Exp. 1 (363.6 ± 5.2 vs. 275.9 ± 8.0% relative increase) and Exp. 2 (76.7 ± 1.9 vs. 67.4 ± 4.7 index; and 12.5 ± 0.5 vs. 9.3 ± 1.8 hours). Cows with a greater intensity of estrous expression at timed AI had greater concentrations of P4 at -4 d than cows with lower intensity estrus or no estrous expression (4.6 ± 0.2 vs. 3.6 ± 0.2 vs. 3.7 ± 0.2 ng/mL). Cows with greater concentrations of P4 at -4 d had greater P/AI (32.8 ± 4.4 vs. 22.4 ± 4.5%), whereas cows with lesser concentrations of P4 at d0 for either timed AI (35.2 ± 3.4 vs. 19.6 ± 4.6%) or spontaneous estrus (31.8 ± 2.8 vs. 23.4 ± 3.2%) had greater P/AI. Cows with greater concentrations of P4 7 d post-timed AI had greater P/AI compared with cows that had lower concentration of P4 (39.1 ± 2.9 vs. 24.7 ± 2.6%). Similarly, cows that had lower concentrations of P4 at 7 d, 14 d and 21 d post-spontaneous estrus tended to have lower P/AI when compared with cows with greater concentrations of P4. Overall, concentrations of P4 prior to and at AI were associated with greater estrous intensity and P/AI at both spontaneous and timed AI events.
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Cappellozza BI, Cooke RF, Harvey KM. Omega-6 Fatty Acids: A Sustainable Alternative to Improve Beef Production Efficiency. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061764. [PMID: 34204706 PMCID: PMC8231484 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061764] [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: 05/08/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The global beef industry is currently challenged with improving production efficiency while fostering judicious use of limited natural resources. Sustainable management systems are warranted to ensure that worldwide demands for beef and ecological stewardship are met. Supplementing cattle with omega-6 fatty acids is a nutritional intervention shown to sustainably enhance productivity across different sectors of the beef industry. The purpose of this review is to discuss recent research that describes the advantages of supplementing omega-6 fatty acids on traits that are critical to beef production efficiency, including reproduction, immunocompetence, growth, and quality of carcass and beef products. Abstract Global beef production must increase in the next decades to meet the demands of a growing population, while promoting sustainable use of limited natural resources. Supplementing beef cattle with omega-6 fatty acids (FAs) is a nutritional approach shown to enhance production efficiency, with research conducted across different environments and sectors of the beef industry. Omega-6 FA from natural feed ingredients such as soybean oil are highly susceptible to ruminal biohydrogenation. Hence, our and other research groups have used soybean oil in the form of Ca soaps (CSSO) to lessen ruminal biohydrogenation, and maximize delivery of omega-6 FA to the duodenum for absorption. In cow–calf systems, omega-6 FA supplementation to beef cows improved pregnancy success by promoting the establishment of early pregnancy. Cows receiving omega-6 FA during late gestation gave birth to calves that were healthier and more efficient in the feedlot, suggesting the potential role of omega-6 FA on developmental programming. Supplementing omega-6 FA to young cattle also elicited programming effects toward improved adipogenesis and carcass quality, and improved calf immunocompetence upon a stress stimulus. Cattle supplemented with omega-6 FA during growing or finishing periods also experienced improved performance and carcass quality. All these research results were generated using cattle of different genetic composition (Bos taurus and B. indicus influenced), and in different environments (tropical, subtropical, and temperate region). Hence, supplementing omega-6 FA via CSSO is a sustainable approach to enhance the production efficiency of beef industries across different areas of the world.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Reinaldo Fernandes Cooke
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-979-458-2703
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de Oliveira Fernandes G, Milazzotto MP, Fidelis AAG, Kawamoto TS, de Oliveira Leme L, de Lima CB, Franco MM, Dode MAN. Biochemical markers for pregnancy in the spent culture medium of in vitro produced bovine embryos†. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:481-490. [PMID: 33982057 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab095] [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: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to identify biomarkers to assess the quality of in vitro produced (IVP) bovine embryos in the culture media. IVP embryos on Day (D) 5 of development were transferred to individual drops, where they were maintained for the last 48 h of culture. Thereafter, the medium was collected and the embryos were transferred to the recipients. After pregnancy diagnosis, the media were grouped into the pregnant and nonpregnant groups. The metabolic profiles of the media were analyzed via electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, and the concentrations of pyruvate, lactate, and glutamate were assessed using fluorimetry. The spectrometric profile revealed that the media from embryos from the pregnant group presented a higher signal intensity compared to that of the nonpregnant group; the ions 156.13 Da [M + H]+, 444.33 Da [M + H]+, and 305.97 Da [M + H]+ were identified as biomarkers. Spent culture medium from expanded blastocysts (Bx) that established pregnancy had a greater concentration of pyruvate (p = 0.0174) and lesser concentration of lactate (p = 0.042) than spent culture medium from Bx that did not establish pregnancy. Moreover, pyruvate in the culture media of Bx can predict pregnancy with 90.9% sensitivity and 75% specificity. In conclusion, we identified markers in the culture media that helped in assessing the most viable IVP embryos with a greater potential to establish pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela de Oliveira Fernandes
- School of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, University of Brasilia, Brasília, DF, Brazil.,Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Brazil
| | | | | | - Taynan Stonoga Kawamoto
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Ligiane de Oliveira Leme
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Brazil.,UFES, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Alegre, ES, Brazil
| | - Camila Bruna de Lima
- Center of Natural and Human Sciences, Universidade Federal do ABC, Santo André, São Paulo, Brazil.,Centre de Recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle. Département des Sciences Animales, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Maurício Machaim Franco
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Margot Alves Nunes Dode
- School of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, University of Brasilia, Brasília, DF, Brazil.,Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Brazil
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Timing of early resynchronization protocols affects subsequent pregnancy outcome in dairy cows. Theriogenology 2021; 167:61-66. [PMID: 33774367 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of an early resynchronization protocol (Resynch) initiated at different timepoints after timed artificial insemination (TAI) and with unknown pregnancy status. Holstein cows (n = 164) were submitted to the following TAI protocol: D0, insertion of an intravaginal progesterone (P4) device and 2 mg im estradiol benzoate (EB); D8, removal of P4 device and treatment with 0.5 mg im sodium cloprostenol (PGF); D9, 0.1 mg im Lecirelin (LEC); and D10, TAI1. Cows were then randomly assigned to Resynch protocols starting either on day 20 (Resynch20D, n = 82) or 25 after TAI1 (Resynch25D, n = 82) with the insertion of a new P4 device and EB treatment. In both groups, P4 device was removed on day 8 after the beginning of Resynch, the same day of pregnancy diagnosis by ultrasonography. In pregnant cows there was no further action. Non-pregnant cows were treated with 0.5 mg im PGF, had a blood sample collected for serum P4 analysis and we measured and recorded the size of the largest follicle and the presence or absence of a corpus luteum (CL). One day later, cows were treated with 0.1 mg im LEC and TAI2 occurred 12-14 h later. The diameter of the largest follicle and serum P4 were compared between groups by ANOVA for the main effects of treatment, presence of a CL, and their interaction, whereas pregnancy per artificial insemination (P/AI) and the percentage of cows with a CL on the day of ultrasonography were analyzed using the Chi-square test. Follicle diameter on day 8 of Resynch was greater for cows in the Resynch20D group compared with Resynch25D (15.9 ± 3.9 vs 12.2 ± 2.5 mm, respectively; P = 0.046). The Resynch25D group had a greater percentage of cows with a CL (51.9 vs 18.9%, respectively; P = 0.0008) and higher serum P4 (2.8 ± 1.1 vs 1.7 ± 0.8 ng/mL; P = 0.041) at the end of the protocol compared with Resynch20D. P/AI at TAI1 was 35.4 and 36.6% (P > 0.10) for cows enrolled in Resynch20D and Resynch25D groups, respectively. P/AI to TAI2, after Resynch protocols, was greater in Resynch25D than Resynch20D (44.2 vs 22.6%, respectively; P < 0.05). In conclusion, starting an early resynchronization protocol 25 days after TAI increases P/AI compared with starting 20 days after TAI, and this was associated with a presumed greater proportion of cows with a functional CL at the moment of P4 device removal.
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30
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Campanile G, Baruselli PS, Limone A, D'Occhio MJ. Local action of cytokines and immune cells in communication between the conceptus and uterus during the critical period of early embryo development, attachment and implantation - Implications for embryo survival in cattle: A review. Theriogenology 2021; 167:1-12. [PMID: 33743503 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Early embryo development, implantation and pregnancy involve a complex dialogue between the embryo and mother. In cattle this dialogue starts as early as days 3-4 when the embryo is still in the oviduct, and it continues to implantation. Immunological processes involving cytokines, mast cells and macrophages form an important part of this dialogue. Amongst the cytokines, interleukin-6 (Il-6) and leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) are secreted by both the embryo and uterine endometrium and form part of an ongoing and reciprocating dialogue. Mast cells and macrophages populate the uterine endometrium during embryo development and are involved in achieving the correct balance between inflammatory and anti-inflammatory reactions at the uterus that are associated with embryo attachment and implantation. Embryo loss is the major cause of reproductive wastage in cattle, and livestock generally. A deeper understanding of immunological processes during early embryo development will help to achieve the next step change in the efficiency of natural and assisted breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Campanile
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - Pietro S Baruselli
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Antonio Limone
- Instituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Del Mezzogiorno, Portici, Naples, Italy
| | - Michael J D'Occhio
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
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Approaches to Identify Pregnancy Failure in Buffalo Cows. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11020487. [PMID: 33673362 PMCID: PMC7917614 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Embryonic mortality and pregnancy failures still represent a major issue in domestic livestock production, particularly in dairy cattle. Despite the presence of extensive work in this research area, there is still no effective, accurate and practical method able to determine timing and viability of embryo specifically during early gestation. Indeed, technologies and techniques for predicting pregnancy success must continue to be developed. The aim of this work was to find the best strategy to diagnose pregnancy failures in buffalo cows in order to improve farm reproductive management. Among the methods compared in this study (ultrasonography, progesterone, PAGs), pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) seem to be the best marker for predicting embryonic mortality between 25 and 40 days of gestation to be utilized as a diagnostic tool to improve reproductive management in buffalo farms. Abstract The aim of this work was to find the best strategy to diagnose pregnancy failures in buffalo. A total of 109 animals belonging to a buffalo herd subjected to a synchronization and artificial insemination (AI) program were enrolled in this study. Blood samples were collected at days 0, 14, 25, 28 and 40 after AI for the determination of progesterone (P4) and pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) by the radioimmunoassay (RIA) method. Transrectal ultrasonography was performed on day 25, 28 and 40 after AI to monitor pregnancy. The animals included in the data analysis were assigned ex post in pregnant (n = 50) and mortality (n = 12) groups. By ultrasonography, the predictive sign of mortality was the heartbeat. At day 25, the PAGs concentration was significant in predicting embryonic mortality with respect to ultrasonography and P4, at the cut-off of 1.1 ng/mL. At day 28, either PAGs, at a cut-off of 2.2 ng/mL, or ultrasonography, with no detection of heartbeat, were highly predictive of embryonic mortality. PAGs were the best marker (p < 0.05) for predicting embryonic mortality between 25 and 40 days of gestation in buffalo. Its utilization as a diagnostic tool can influence management decisions in order to improve farm reproductive management.
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Camacho M, Garza D, Gutiérrez-Zamora B, Rodríguez-Ramírez H, Méndez-Zamora G, Kawas JR. Superovulatory response and embryo quality in Boer does following dietary supplementation with different sources of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids during the breeding season. Anim Reprod Sci 2021; 227:106718. [PMID: 33631623 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2021.106718] [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: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine effects of various sources of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids on ovarian response and embryo quality in Boer does when there was a superovulation treatment regimen imposed. Pluriparous does were randomly assigned to be treated with 300 g of one of four experimental supplements containing linseed oil (LO), soybean oil (SO), palm oil (PO), or a control supplement without fatty acids (CO), for 15 days. Does were fitted with a controlled internal drug release (CIDR) device containing 0.3 g progesterone for 7 days. At 48 h before CIDR withdrawal, does were treated with 80 mg follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) administered at 12 h intervals. Embryos were collected 7 days after the last natural mating. Estrous response and interval between CIDR withdrawals to estrous onset were similar between treatments (P > 0.05). Number of ovulations was similar for does in the different groups (10.0, 9.2, 7.0, and 7.0, in LO, SO, PO, and CO, respectively; P > 0.05). There was premature luteal regression in does of the SO, PO, and CO groups, except in LO group. The LO-treated does had a larger (P < 0.05) mean number of ova/embryos recovered than does of SO, PO, and CO groups (7.2, 2.0, 0.2, 0.2, respectively) and transferable embryos (5.1, 1.4, 0.2, 0.2, respectively). These results indicate that including LO in supplements may be a feasible strategy for preventing premature luteal regression and improving embryo quality in goats treated to induce follicular super-stimulation for induction of superovulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Camacho
- MNA de México, Avenida Acapulco 770, Colonia La Fe, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León, 66477, Mexico
| | - Denisse Garza
- Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Posgrado Conjunto Agronomía-Veterinaria, Avenida Francisco Villa S/N, Colonia Ex-hacienda El Canadá, Escobedo, Nuevo León, CP 66050, Mexico
| | - Brandon Gutiérrez-Zamora
- MNA de México, Avenida Acapulco 770, Colonia La Fe, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León, 66477, Mexico
| | - Heidi Rodríguez-Ramírez
- Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Posgrado Conjunto Agronomía-Veterinaria, Avenida Francisco Villa S/N, Colonia Ex-hacienda El Canadá, Escobedo, Nuevo León, CP 66050, Mexico
| | - Gerardo Méndez-Zamora
- Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Posgrado Conjunto Agronomía-Veterinaria, Avenida Francisco Villa S/N, Colonia Ex-hacienda El Canadá, Escobedo, Nuevo León, CP 66050, Mexico
| | - Jorge R Kawas
- Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Posgrado Conjunto Agronomía-Veterinaria, Avenida Francisco Villa S/N, Colonia Ex-hacienda El Canadá, Escobedo, Nuevo León, CP 66050, Mexico.
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Szymanska M, Blitek A. In vivo response of the corpus luteum to progesterone treatment of gilts during early gestation. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 221:106583. [PMID: 32882581 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Supplementation of progesterone (P4) in pregnant gilts increases concentrations of circulating P4 and stimulates the secretory activity of the endometrium. In this study, there was examination of the consequences of exogenous P4 administration on luteal P4 content and the expression of genes related to the corpus luteum (CL) function. Gilts with gonadotropin-induced estrus were administered daily injections of corn oil (n = 8) or P4 (n = 8) on days 3 through 10 after insemination. The animals were slaughtered on day 12 of pregnancy to obtain corpora lutea for real-time polymerase chain reaction analyses of selected genes and for enzyme immunoassay of P4. Injections with P4 had no effect on the concentration of P4 and the relative abundance of mRNA transcripts of cholesterol transport-related proteins, steroidogenic enzymes, and receptors for luteotropic factors in the luteal tissue. The abundance of prostaglandin (PG) endoperoxide synthase 2, PGI2 synthase, PGI2 receptor, fibroblast growth factor 2, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ, and tumor necrosis factor α receptor type I transcripts increased after P4 treatment. In contrast, the relative abundance of angiopoietin 2 mRNA decreased in response to P4 administration. In summary, P4 supplementation in pregnant gilts does not affect luteal steroidogenesis but modulates the abundance of factors related to vascular function. Given that the endometrium is the main target tissue for P4, an indirect uterine-mediated effect of exogenous P4 on CL function is likely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Szymanska
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Blitek
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748, Olsztyn, Poland.
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Tonizza de Carvalho NA, Soares de Carvalho JG, Sales JNDS, Guerreiro BM, Freitas BGD, D'Occhio MJ, Baruselli PS. Treatment with estradiol cypionate at progesterone withdrawal reduces handling without compromising the pregnancy rate to timed-AI in buffalo. Theriogenology 2020; 157:498-502. [PMID: 32905899 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine if treatment with estradiol cypionate (EC) at the time of P4 withdrawal induced ovulation in a synchronization/timed-AI (TAI) protocol in buffalo. In Experiment 1, 56 buffaloes received an intravaginal P4 device (1.0 g) plus estradiol benzoate (EB, 2.0 mg im) on Day 0 (D0). On Day 9, the P4 device was removed and buffaloes were given PGF2α (0.53 mg im sodium cloprostenol) plus eCG (400 IU im). Buffaloes were then randomly allocated to one of two groups: Group GEC (n = 29), treated with EC (1.0 mg im) at P4 device removal; Group GEB (n = 27), treated with EB (1.0 mg im) 24 h after P4 device removal. Ovarian ultrasound was undertaken on: D0, to ascertain general ovarian status; D9 to D11 (every 24 h), to measure diameter of the largest follicle (LF) and follicular growth rate; D11 to D13 (every 12 h for 72 h), to determine the time of ovulation and ovulation rate. Following P4 device removal, Groups GEC and GEB had a similar follicular growth rate (0.9 ± 0.1 and 1.1 ± 0.1 mm/day, respectively; P = 0.15) and similar LF diameter on D11 (11.4 ± 0.6 and 12.5 ± 0.5 mm; P = 0.12). Groups GEC and GEB also had a similar diameter of the ovulatory follicle (13.0 ± 0.5 and 13.4 ± 0.6 mm; P = 0.52), interval from P4 device removal to ovulation (68.2 ± 2.8 and 71.1 ± 1.4 h; P = 0.41) and ovulation rate (62.1% and 70.4%; P = 0.44). In Experiment 2, 199 buffaloes were assigned to the two treatments in Experiment 1 (GEC, n = 100; GEB, n = 99). All animals underwent TAI 56 h after P4 device removal and pregnancy diagnosis was preformed on D41. The pregnancy rate was similar for Groups GEC and GEB (50.0 and 45.5%, respectively; P = 0.45). The findings indicate that treatment with EC at the time of P4 withdrawal induces ovulation and achieves the same pregnancy rate to TAI as treatment with EB 24 h after P4 removal. The use of EC requires one less handling which is highly important in facilitating practical adoption of TAI in assisted breeding and genetic improvement in buffalo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelcio Antonio Tonizza de Carvalho
- Research and Development Unit of Registro / Diversified Animal Science Research Center / Institute of Animal Science, Registro, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Júlia Gleyci Soares de Carvalho
- Human Reproduction Section, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, São Paulo Federal University, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José Nélio de Sousa Sales
- Department of Animal Science, UFLA, Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | | | - Michael J D'Occhio
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Lonergan P, Sánchez JM. Symposium review: Progesterone effects on early embryo development in cattle. J Dairy Sci 2020; 103:8698-8707. [PMID: 32622590 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-18583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The causes of low fertility in dairy cattle are complex and multifactorial and may be due to compromised follicle development affecting oocyte quality, a suboptimal reproductive tract environment incapable of supporting normal embryo development, or a combination of both. Progesterone (P4) plays a key role in reproductive events associated with establishment and maintenance of pregnancy, through its effects on oocyte quality and its action on the uterine endometrium. Reduced P4 concentrations during growth of the ovulatory follicle are associated with lower fertility, and low concentrations of circulating P4 after ovulation have been associated with reductions in conceptus growth and elongation, decreased interferon-τ (IFNT) production, and lower pregnancy rates in cattle. In contrast, elevated concentrations of circulating P4 in the period immediately following conception have been associated with advancement of conceptus elongation, increased IFNT production, and, in some cases, higher pregnancy rates in cattle. Despite the potential beneficial effects of exogenous P4 supplementation on fertility, results of supplementation studies have been inconsistent. As part of the 2019 ADSA Reproduction Symposium, focusing on the etiology of pregnancy losses in dairy cattle, the aim of this review is to highlight recent findings from our group and others in relation to embryo-maternal interaction during bovine pregnancy establishment and the role of P4 in uterine biology and embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland.
| | - J M Sánchez
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
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Damarany AI, Ghanem N. Effect of flunixin meglumine and aspirin administration on conception rate and estrous cycle characteristics of Egyptian Baladi cows during hot season. Trop Anim Health Prod 2020; 52:2969-2976. [PMID: 32535804 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-020-02314-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The current investigation aims to evaluate the effects of flunixin meglumine (FM) and aspirin as non-steroid anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) administration on estrous cycles characteristics and conception rate of Egyptian Baladi cows during hot season. In the first phase, 30 cows were divided into 3 groups, 10 cows for each treatment. The first group was treated with FM at the rate of 1.1 mg/kg body weight (BW) intramuscular, while the second group was administrated aspirin solution orally at the rate of 50 mg/kg BW. The third group was assigned as control (CG) that has no treatment. The FM group was administrated on day 14 after mating, while aspirin was given on day 14 and day 15 post-mating. All cows were mated naturally after showing estrus signs. Pregnancy diagnosis was carried 60 days after mating by rectal palpation. In the second phase, cows were monitored for estrus behavior by visual observation twice a day. The length of normal estrous cycles was 20, 23, and 22 days in cows treated with FM, aspirin, and control cows, respectively. There was no significant effect of treatment on the length of normal estrous cycles in Egyptian cows (P < 0.05). Proportions of long cycles in Egyptian cows that treated with FM or aspirin and control were 75, 67.7, and 57.1%, respectively. Short cycles were completely absent in cows that treated with FM or aspirin, but it was 29% in CG. Mounting behavior and tail rising were not detected in CG compared to 0 and 33% in FM or 25 and 33% in aspirin treated cows, respectively. Conception or pregnancy rate were 60, 40, and 30%, respectively, in FM, aspirin treated, and CG. Treatment cows whether FM or aspirin group did not influence (P < 0.05) progesterone concentration during the 14 days and 21 days from estrous cycle in pregnant and non-pregnant Egyptian Baladi cows than CG. In conclusion, the results of this study clearly indicated beneficial effect of FM and aspirin administration on intense of displayed estrous behavior and conception rate of Egyptian Baladi cows during the hot season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Ismail Damarany
- Department of Animal and Poultry Production Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Aswan University, Aswan, Egypt.
| | - Nasser Ghanem
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
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Argudo DE, Tenemaza MA, Merchán SL, Balvoa JA, Méndez MS, Soria ME, Galarza LR, Ayala LE, Hernández-Fonseca HJ, Perea MS, Perea FP. Intraovarian influence of bovine corpus luteum on oocyte morphometry and developmental competence, embryo production and cryotolerance. Theriogenology 2020; 155:232-239. [PMID: 32758994 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.05.044] [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: 11/04/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Three experiments were conducted to determine influence of the bovine corpus luteum (CL) on morphometric and functional characteristics of oocytes, and subsequent embryonic development. Cumulus-oocyte complexes were aspirated from two types of cows: 1) with a CL in one ovary (CL+) and without a CL in the contralateral ovary (CL-), 2) and from cows without CL in either ovary (C). Intracellular activity of the enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH), oocyte diameter and thickness of the zona pellucida were determined (Experiment 1). Then, the rate of in vitro oocyte maturation for each ovarian category was evaluated and oocyte diameter and zona pellucida thickness were measured after maturation (Experiment 2). In Experiment 3, in vitro embryo production and cryotolerance were assessed. The oocyte diameter was greater (P < 0.01) and the zona pellucida was thinner in CL+ than in CL- (P > 0.05) or C (P = 0.0131) ovaries. Activity of G6PDH was lower in oocytes from CL+ than CL- (P < 0.01) and C (P = 0.0148) ovaries. Rate of oocyte maturation, oocyte diameter and thickness of the zona pellucida after maturation did not differ among groups. Rate of cleavage was greater in zygotes from CL+ than from CL- or C (P < 0.01); and CL+ ovaries produced more total embryos on day 7 (P < 0.05) and more blastocysts (P < 0.01) than CL- and C ovaries. Rate of expansion and hatching of day-7 vitrified-warmed blastocysts at 24 and 48 h of culture did not differ among groups. In conclusion, oocytes collected from CL+ ovaries were larger and metabolically more prepared to continue maturation than those from ovaries lacking a CL. Also, rates of cleavage and yield of blastocysts were greater for oocytes from CL+ ovaries than from CL- and C ovaries. These findings indicate that a CL influenced oocyte developmental competence and embryonic development, presumably through intraovarian interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel E Argudo
- Unidad Académica de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad Católica de Cuenca, Ecuador
| | - Milton A Tenemaza
- Laboratorio de Biotecnologías de la Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias. Universidad de Cuenca, Ecuador
| | - Shirley L Merchán
- Laboratorio de Biotecnologías de la Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias. Universidad de Cuenca, Ecuador
| | - José A Balvoa
- Laboratorio de Biotecnologías de la Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias. Universidad de Cuenca, Ecuador
| | - Maria S Méndez
- Laboratorio de Biotecnologías de la Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias. Universidad de Cuenca, Ecuador
| | - Manuel E Soria
- Laboratorio de Biotecnologías de la Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias. Universidad de Cuenca, Ecuador
| | - Luis R Galarza
- Laboratorio de Biotecnologías de la Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias. Universidad de Cuenca, Ecuador
| | - Luis E Ayala
- Laboratorio de Biotecnologías de la Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias. Universidad de Cuenca, Ecuador
| | | | - Mariana S Perea
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad del Zulia, Venezuela
| | - Fernando P Perea
- Departamento de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad de Los Andes, Trujillo, Venezuela.
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Mateo-Otero Y, Sánchez JM, Recuero S, Bagés-Arnal S, McDonald M, Kenny DA, Yeste M, Lonergan P, Fernandez-Fuertes B. Effect of Exposure to Seminal Plasma Through Natural Mating in Cattle on Conceptus Length and Gene Expression. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:341. [PMID: 32478076 PMCID: PMC7235327 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing body of evidence suggests that paternal factors have an impact on offspring development. These studies have been mainly carried out in mice, where seminal plasma (SP) has been shown to regulate endometrial gene expression and impact embryo development and subsequent offspring health. In cattle, infusion of SP into the uterus also induces changes in endometrial gene expression, however, evidence for an effect of SP on early embryo development is lacking. In addition, during natural mating, the bull ejaculates in the vagina; hence, it is not clear whether any SP reaches the uterus in this species. Thus, the aim of the present study was to determine whether SP exposure leads to improved early embryo survival and developmental rates in cattle. To this end, Day 7 in vitro produced blastocysts were transferred to heifers (12-15 per heifer) previously mated to vasectomized bulls (n = 13 heifers) or left unmated (n = 12 heifers; control). At Day 14, heifers were slaughtered, and conceptuses were recovered to assess size, morphology and expression of candidate genes involved in different developmental pathways. Additionally, CL volume at Day 7, and weight and volume of CL at Day 14 were recorded. No effect of SP on CL volume and weight not on conceptus recovery rate was observed. However, filamentous conceptuses recovered from SP-exposed heifers were longer in comparison to the control group and differed in expression of CALM1, CITED1, DLD, HNRNPDL, PTGS2, and TGFB3. In conclusion, data indicate that female exposure to SP during natural mating can affect conceptus development in cattle. This is probably achieved through modulation of the female reproductive environment at the time of mating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yentel Mateo-Otero
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - José María Sánchez
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sandra Recuero
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Sandra Bagés-Arnal
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Michael McDonald
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - David A. Kenny
- Animal and Bioscience Research Department, Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc Grange, Dunsany, Ireland
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Pat Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Beatriz Fernandez-Fuertes
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
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Hashem NM, Sallam SM. Reproductive performance of goats treated with free gonadorelin or nanoconjugated gonadorelin at estrus. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2020; 71:106390. [PMID: 31731249 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2019.106390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The reproductive performance of goats that received a GnRH analog (gonadorelin) fabricated with or without chitosan-sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP) nanoparticles on the day of estrus (day 0) was evaluated. The chitosan-TPP polymer was conjugated with gonadorelin using an ionic gelation method. Thirty-three multiparous Zaraiebi goats were synchronized for estrus with 2 intramuscular (im) injections of 125 μg prostaglandin F2α 14 d apart. Goats showing signs of estrus were divided equally into 3 experimental groups and received a single im injection of 1 mL physiological saline (placebo; control), 50 μg/mL gonadorelin (GnRH), or 12.5 μg (quarter of GnRH dose)/mL chitosan-TPP-conjugated gonadorelin nanoparticles (NGnRH). Each goat underwent ultrasound imaging of their ovaries at day 0 and at day 10 after mating, and pregnancy was diagnosed 28 and 45 d after mating. The concentrations of estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) were determined at day 0 and at days 7, 14, 21, and 42 after mating. NGnRH size, polydispersity, and zeta potential were 93.91 nm, 0.302, and 11.6 mV, respectively. Chitosan-TPP nanoparticles showed 91.2% entrapment efficiency for GnRH. No differences in estrus rate, interval to estrus, or ovarian structure at day 0 were observed among the experimental groups, but the GnRH and NGnRH treatments significantly decreased the duration of estrus compared with the control. At day 10 after mating, both GnRH and NGnRH increased (P = 0.011) the number of corpora lutea compared with the control. Treatment with GnRH increased (P = 0.023) serum E2 concentrations from day 7 to 42 after mating compared with NGnRH and control treatments. The highest (P = 0.043) serum P4 concentration was observed in the GnRH group, followed by the NGnRH and control groups. The increase in serum P4 concentration started earlier a on day 7 in the GnRH group but later on day 14 in the NGnRH group. Compared with the control, GnRH resulted in a higher (P = 0.041) P4-to-E2 ratio, followed by NGnRH. Both gonadorelin treatments significantly increased the twinning rate, the number of embryos at days 28 and 42, and prolificacy and decreased pregnancy losses compared with the control. In conclusion, the administration of GnRH at the time of estrus improved the prolificacy of goats by increasing both the ovulation rate and the number of embryos. In addition, the nanoformulation developed in this study allowed a 75% reduction in the conventional dose of gonadorelin without affecting the fertility and prolificacy of goats, indicating the bioavailability of the reduced GnRH dose after conjugation with developed nanoformula.
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Affiliation(s)
- N M Hashem
- Department of Animal and Fish Production, Faculty of Agriculture (El-Shatby), Alexandria University, Alexandria 21545, Egypt.
| | - S M Sallam
- Department of Animal and Fish Production, Faculty of Agriculture (El-Shatby), Alexandria University, Alexandria 21545, Egypt
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Induction and Formation of Accessory Corpus Luteum after Artificial Insemination (AI) Might Increase Pregnancy Rate per AI in Heat Stressed Dairy Cows. MACEDONIAN VETERINARY REVIEW 2020. [DOI: 10.2478/macvetrev-2020-0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
The present study aimed to evaluate whether the induction and the formation of an accessory corpus luteum (CL) after AI might increase the pregnancy per AI (P/AI) in heat stressed dairy cows. Starting at d 50±3 post-partum, 113 lactating Holstein cows from one commercial herd during summer were scored for body condition, blood sampled and examined by ultrasound. Those bearing a CL>25mm and progesterone (P4) level>2ng/mL were synchronized using a double PGF2α injection given 12 h apart and AI-ed at detected estrus. In total 18 cows, there were not any signs of estrus (n=10) nor a P4 level <2ng/mL at the time of enrolment (n=8) and therefore they were excluded from the study, leading to 95 cows finally enrolled.. At d5 post-AI, cows were randomly allocated into 2 groups: control group (CON, n=45) without any additional treatment, and treatment group (GnRH, n=50), treated with 0.008 mg Buserelin – a GnRH agonist. Blood sampling and ultrasound examination were done at d5, d14 and at d21 after AI, whereas the pregnancy diagnosis was done at d21 and d30 after AI. Average daily temperature and relative humidity values were used to calculate the temperature-humidity index (THI). The average THI during the experiment was 79.5±0.6. At d5, no differences were observed neither between the number of the CL nor between the P4 level in both groups. At d14 and d21, 82% of the GnRH-treated cows had more than one CL versus 0% of the CON cows. Both at d14 and 21, GnRH-treated cows had higher P4 levels compared to the CON cows (p<0.05). In addition, P/AI were higher in the GnRH group than in the CON group (65% vs. 48.3%, p<0.05), whereas late embryonic losses were higher in CON in comparison to GnRH cows (10.6 vs. 4%, respectively). The BCS at the moment of insemination did not affect P/AI (p>0.05). In conclusion, the induction of an accessory CL at d 5 after AI might increase P/AI in heat stressed dairy cows.
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Ullah H, Khan RU, Mobashar M, Ahmad S, Sajid A, Khan NU, Usman T, Khattak I, Khan H. Effect of yeast-based selenium on blood progesterone, metabolites and milk yield in Achai dairy cows. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/1828051x.2019.1683475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hammad Ullah
- College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Rifat Ullah Khan
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Mobashar
- Department of Animal Nutrition, Faculty of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Shakoor Ahmad
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Sajid
- College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Naimat Ullah Khan
- College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Tahir Usman
- College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Irfan Khattak
- College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Hamayun Khan
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan
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Willmore A, Davis TL. Effect of chronic administration of a gonadotropin-releasing agonist on luteal function and pregnancy rates in dairy cattle. Anim Sci J 2019; 90:1432-1443. [PMID: 31502373 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2018] [Revised: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Increased embryonic losses may be associated with inadequate progesterone (P4) concentrations in high-producing lactating dairy cattle. The objectives of the present studies were to determine if chronic administration of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist, Deslorelin, would increase circulating P4 concentrations and subsequently increase pregnancy rates in dairy cattle. Administration of Deslorelin for 12 days increased (p < .05) luteal volume and circulating P4 concentrations in primiparous lactating dairy cows, but increased only luteal volumes in multiparous cows. Treatment with Deslorelin increased Day 45 pregnancy rates in cows as compared to untreated controls. Chronic treatment with Deslorelin in dairy cattle; (a) increased luteal volume of the primary CL, (b) induced accessory CL, (c) increased circulating P4 concentration in primiparous cows only, (d) did not lengthen the estrous cycle upon removal of treatment, and (e) increased pregnancy rates. Although luteal volume was increased in multiparous cows and circulating P4 concentrations were not with Deslorelin treatment, there was an apparent effect on pregnancy rates. This hormonal strategy may represent a suitable model to address local effects of P4 and GnRH/luteinizing hormone on uterine environment and subsequent embryonic survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Willmore
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA
| | - Tracy L Davis
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA.,Center for Reproductive Biology, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA
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Iacono E, Lucci M, Mari G, Merlo B. Luteal Blood Flow and progesterone concentration during first and second postpartum estrous cycle in lactating dairy cows. Reprod Domest Anim 2019; 54:1341-1347. [PMID: 31306526 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to determine the differences in corpus luteum (CL) functionality between the first postpartum estrous cycle and the following cycle in lactating dairy cows. Luteal blood flow (LBF), luteal size and blood progesterone (P4) concentration were monitored during the first and second postpartum estrous cycle. During the first and second postpartum estrous cycle, the mean LBF value increased (p < .05) from early to late dioestrus, while it decreased rapidly in proestrus, resulting statistically lower (p < .05) than those registered in all previous phases. Statistically significant differences were not observed between overall LBF during first and second postpartum estrous cycle (p > .05). During the first postpartum estrous cycle, P4 blood concentrations showed a significant reduction (p < .05) from dioestrus to proestrus. A different trend of P4 concentrations was observed during the second postpartum estrous cycle, where mean P4 value registered in proestrus resulted statistically lower than those registered in the previous cycle phases (p < .05). The mean P4 concentration registered over the first postpartum estrous cycle resulted statistically lower (p < .05) than that registered during the second one. A significant correlation between P4 concentrations and LBF was registered only during the second postpartum estrous cycle. Results indicate that during the first postpartum estrous cycle, P4 concentration was independent of luteal blood flow and luteal size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Iacono
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Gaetano Mari
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Barbara Merlo
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Use of color-Doppler ultrasonography for selection of recipients in timed-embryo transfer programs in beef cattle. Theriogenology 2019; 135:73-79. [PMID: 31203090 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to study the association between CL characteristics assessed by color-Doppler ultrasonography (Doppler-US) at the time of embryo transfer (ET) and pregnancy rate (P/ET) in beef recipients. Estrous cycles of crossbred beef recipients were synchronized for timed-ET. On the day of ET (Day 7), CL area, proportion of luteal blood perfusion (BP), and the relationship between the largest dominant follicle (DF) and CL (ipsilateral or contralateral) were determined. Animals (n = 444) received an in vitro produced embryo from Nelore donors, placed in the uterine horn ipsilateral to the CL. Recipients were split retrospectively in three subgroups according to CL area [small (<3 cm2), medium (3-4 cm2), or large (>4 cm2)] and three subgroups according to luteal signals of BP [low (≤40%), medium (45-50%) or high (≥55%)]. Pregnancy was detected on Days 30-45 by transrectal ultrasonography and P/ET was analyzed considering the effects of cow's category (suckling or non-suckling), CL area, luteal BP and side of DF. P/ET increased along with BP category [low, 45.9%B, (62/135); medium, 54.1%AB (93/172); and high, 58.4%A (80/137)]. When luteal BP was evaluated as a continuous variable, a significant (P < 0.05) linear and positive effect was observed on P/ET. A greater (P < 0.05) CL area and serum progesterone concentrations were observed in the medium and high BP than in the low BP category. Although an effect of luteal size category was not significant on P/ET [small, 49% (76/155); medium, 59.7% (83/139); and large, 50.7% (75/148); P > 0.1], when CL area was evaluated as a continuous variable, a quadratic effect (P < 0.05) indicated a positive relationship between P/ET and CL area until luteal tissue reached 4.07 cm2, followed by a negative relationship. The location of the first-wave DF in relation to the CL did not affect P/ET (P > 0.1). In conclusion, Doppler-US is an innovative tool that has the potential to be used for selection of suitable embryo recipients based on luteal BP. Selection of recipients that have a greater chance of maintaining pregnancy will increase the success of timed-ET programs.
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Stevenson JS. Spatial relationships of ovarian follicles and luteal structures in dairy cows subjected to ovulation synchronization: Progesterone and risks for luteolysis, ovulation, and pregnancy. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:5686-5698. [PMID: 30981493 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2018-16036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Objectives were to determine relative ovary location of follicles, GnRH-induced corpora lutea (CL), and older CL present in ovaries as part of ovulation synchronization and their associations with progesterone concentration and risk for luteolysis, ovulation, and pregnancy. Cows were exposed to a timed artificial insemination (AI) program [GnRH-1-7 d-PGF2α (1 dose or 2 doses 24 h apart)-56 h after first or only dose of PGF2α-GnRH-2-16 h-timed AI at 72 ± 3 d in milk]. Blood was collected to assess progesterone when ovarian structures were mapped in 694 cows before GnRH-1 and before and 48 h after PGF2α and, in a subset of cows, size of CL (n = 599) and progesterone (n = 380) at 6 d after AI. Dominant follicles and CL in single-ovulating cows were detected more often in right than left ovaries (follicles before GnRH-1: 60.6% right and GnRH-2: 61.2% right; and CL before GnRH-1: 58.6% right and GnRH-2: 66.4% right). Dominant follicles in single-ovulating cows before GnRH-1 tended to be ipsilateral to the CL more often than contralateral (54.8 vs. 45.2%) with co-dominant follicles identified in both ovaries (19.3%). In response to GnRH-1 or GnRH-2, more left-ovary follicles ovulated contralateral to CL (left to right, 54.7%; right to left, 34.7%) than right-ovary follicles, but fewer left-ovary follicles ovulated ipsilateral to CL (left to left: 45.3%) than right-ovary follicles ovulated ipsilateral (right to right: 65.3%). Preovulatory follicles in single-ovulating cows before PGF2α tended to be detected more often ipsilateral than contralateral to CL induced by GnRH-1 (younger CL; 56.5 vs. 43.6%), but were of equal frequency ipsilateral or contralateral to older CL present before GnRH-1. Luteolytic risk was less in cows bearing co-dominant follicles in both ovaries compared with those in either right or left ovaries. Luteolytic risk in single-ovulating cows did not differ between ovaries. Luteolytic risk was greater for cows bearing older CL (86.5%) than for cows bearing younger GnRH-1-induced CL (65.3%) or both (79.6%). Pregnancy risk at 60 d after AI was or tended to be greater in cows having both CL types compared with either younger or older CL, respectively, partly because of greater embryonic loss in the latter 2 cases. More female calves tended to be carried in right horns when conception occurred after first service, whereas the opposite greater female frequency occurred in left horns after repeat services. Right-ovary dominance is evident before and after GnRH treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- J S Stevenson
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506-0201.
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Pietrani M, Losinno L, Cuervo Arango J. Effect of the Interval From Prostaglandin F2alpha Treatment to Ovulation on Reproductive Efficiency Rates in a Commercial Equine Embryo Transfer Program. J Equine Vet Sci 2019; 78:123-126. [PMID: 31203975 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2019.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, 2.228 cycles of 180 Polo Argentino donor mares from an embryo transfer program in Argentina were examined to evaluate the effects of: (1) Interval from Prostaglandin F2alpha analog treatment to ovulation (ITO) on embryo recovery rate (ERR); (2) ITO on number of embryos per flushing (EPF); (3) ITO on multiple ovulation (MO) rate; (4) ITO from donor mare on pregnancy rate (PR) in recipient mares. Mares were inseminated with fresh semen from 31 fertile stallions in the induced estrus. Embryo flushing was performed 7-8 days postovulation. Following embryo flushing, donor mares were treated with prostaglandin F2alpha analog (cloprostenol 250 μg). The ERR increased along with the ITO (P = .01), with the lowest ERR (30.7%) for mares with an ITO of <4 days, and the highest (78.3%) in mares with an ITO of 10 days. The ITO from the donor mare in which the embryo was recovered did not have a significant effect on PR: ITO <6, 6 to 10, and >10 days were 74.6, 81.4, and 77.3%, respectively. The number of EPF and MO rate increased gradually along with the ITO (P < .05). In conclusion, the results of this study indicated that the ITO is positively correlated with the embryo recovery and the multiple ovulation rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melina Pietrani
- Cátedra de producción Equina, Universidad Nacional de La Rioja, Argentina, Chamical, La Rioja.
| | - Luis Losinno
- Laboratorio de Producción Equina, Facultad de Agronomía y Veterinaria, Universidad Nacional de Rio Cuarto, Río Cuarto, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Juan Cuervo Arango
- Department of Equine Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Cavalieri J. Absence of a corpus luteum and relatively lesser concentrations of progesterone during the period of pre-ovulatory follicle emergence results in lesser pregnancy rates in Bos indicus cattle. Anim Reprod Sci 2019; 204:39-49. [PMID: 30853120 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2019.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Concentrations of progesterone before AI have had variable effects on fertility in both Bos indicus and Bos taurus cattle. The aim of this study was to determine if fertility and concentrations of progesterone after AI were affected in Bos indicus females when pre-ovulatory follicles develop in the absence or presence of a corpus luteum (CL). Between 6.5-7.5 days after a synchronised oestrus, all follicles ≥4 mm in diameter were aspirated (Day 0) and cloprostenol was administered on Days 0 and 1 (LP4, n = 36) or on Days 4 and 5 (HP4, n = 40). Animals were inseminated on detection of oestrus until Day 9. Breeding continued using natural mating between Days 9 and 19, AI on detection of oestrus between Day 19 and 29 and natural mating between Days 29-90. Mean concentrations of progesterone were less on Days 2-4 in the LP4 compared to the HP4-treated animals but similar on Days 14 and 20. In the LP4- compared to the HP4-treated animals, the odds of being detected in oestrus and ovulating close to the first AI were similar, but odds of pregnancy to first AI (OR = 0.19, 95% CI 0.07 - 0.52) and after 1, 4 and 13 weeks of breeding were less (P ≤ 0.051). Absence of a CL and relatively lesser concentrations of progesterone during emergence of pre-ovulatory follicles resulted in lesser pregnancy rates to AI in Bos indicus cattle but did not affect concentrations of P4 after ovulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Cavalieri
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Qld 4811, Australia.
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48
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Cooke RF. Early career achievement award: supplementing omega-6 fatty acids to enhance early embryonic development and pregnancy establishment in Bos indicus and B. taurus beef cows. J Anim Sci 2019; 97:485-495. [PMID: 30351357 DOI: 10.1093/jas/sky414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Our research group investigated the impacts of supplementing Ca salts of soybean oil (CSSO), a source of omega-6 fatty acids (FAs), on reproductive performance of beef cows. Initial studies were conducted with Nelore (Bos indicus) cows grazing tropical pastures. Cows were assigned to fixed-time artificial insemination (AI) and supplemented or not with 100 g/d (as-fed basis) of CSSO, and supplementation regimens ranged from days -11 to 28 relative to AI. Overall, CSSO supplementation during the 21 d after AI increased (P < 0.01) pregnancy rates from 38.1% (623/1,635 as pregnant/total nonsupplemented cows) to 49.0% (843/1,720 as pregnant/total CSSO-supplemented cows), and these outcomes were associated with enhanced early embryonic development and pregnancy establishment when omega-6 FA were supplemented. To verify this rationale, our group compared FA incorporation in grazing Nelore cows (n = 90) supplemented or not with CSSO (100 g/d; as-fed basis) beginning at fixed-time AI until slaughter at day 19 of gestation. Supplementing CSSO increased (P ≤ 0.05) incorporation of linoleic acid and its omega-6 derivatives in plasma, endometrium, corpus luteum, and conceptus, whereas the same responses were not observed (P ≥ 0.25) for omega-3 FA. Complementing these findings, grazing Nelore cows (n = 100) were supplemented or not with CSSO (100 g/d; as-fed basis) beginning at fixed-time AI, and assigned to transcervical uterine flush on day 15 of gestation. Supplementing CSSO increased (P ≤ 0.04) conceptus length (2.58 vs. 1.15 cm) and mRNA expression of interferon-tau (4.1-fold increase) and prostaglandin E synthase 2 (2.6-fold increase), which are critical regulators of pregnancy establishment. These outcomes were recently replicated in B. taurus beef cows consuming temperate forages. Pregnancy rates were greater (P = 0.01) in Angus cows receiving CSSO (100 g/d; as-fed basis) for 21 d after fixed-time AI (60.2%; 226/383 as pregnant/total cows) compared with nonsupplemented cows (51.7%; 193/388 as pregnant/total cows). Supplementing CSSO to Angus × Hereford cows (n = 96) beginning after AI also increased (P = 0.05) mRNA expression of interferon-tau in day 15 conceptuses (1.8-fold increase). Collectively, our research demonstrated that post-AI CSSO supplementation favors incorporation of omega-6 FA into maternal and embryonic tissues, which enhances interferon-tau synthesis by the conceptus and increases pregnancy rates to fixed-time AI in B. indicus and B. taurus beef cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reinaldo F Cooke
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Zootecnia/Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, UNESP-Univ. Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
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Saad M, Sarwar Z, Saleem M, Arshad U, Shahzad M, Hassan Mushtaq M, Husnain A, Riaz A, Ahmad N. Effect of plasma progesterone on oocyte recovery, oocyte quality, and early in-vitro developmental competence of embryos in Bos indicus dairy cows. Anim Reprod Sci 2019; 202:80-86. [PMID: 30765111 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2019.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The objective of present study was to determine the effect of plasma progesterone (P4) on oocyte recovery, oocyte quality, and early in-vitro developmental competence of embryos in Bos indicus dairy cows. The ovaries were collected in an abattoir. These ovaries (n = 750) were divided into two groups: 1) estrous CYCLIC (n = 318), and 2) estrous ACYCLIC (n = 432). Mean serum concentrations of P4 in a subset of (n = 85; 4.21 ± 0.4 ng/ml compared with 0.5 ± 0.2 ng/ml; P < 0.05) were greater in estrous CYCLIC as compared to ACYCLIC cows, respectively. The mean number of oocytes recovered per ovary (6.5 ± 0.5 compared with 4.0 ± 0.2; P < 0.05) was greater for estrous CYCLIC than ACYCLIC cows, respectively. The oocytes with grade I_+_II quality (55.3% compared with 47.6%; P < 0.05) were greater, whereas, there was lesser percentage with grade III_+_IV quality (44.5% compared with 52.4%; P < 0.05) from estrous CYCLIC as compared with ACYCLIC cows, respectively. Cleavage rate (70.9% compared with 52.8%; P < 0.05) was greater for embryos derived from estrous CYCLIC than ACYCLIC cows, respectively. Similarly, the embryo developmental rates to the 8- (38.5% compared with 20.8%; P < 0.05) and 16- (20.0% compared with 10.9%; P < 0.05) cell stage were greater for embryos derived from estrous CYCLIC as compared to ACYCLIC cows, respectively. In conclusion, the presence of greater plasma P4 has a beneficial effect on oocyte recovery, oocyte quality, and early IVEP outcomes in Bos indicus dairy cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Saad
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Zaeem Sarwar
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Saleem
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Usman Arshad
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Shahzad
- Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology (NIAB), Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Hassan Mushtaq
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Ali Husnain
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Amjad Riaz
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Nasim Ahmad
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan.
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Nishimura TK, Martins T, da Silva MI, Lafuente BS, de Garla Maio JR, Binelli M, Pugliesi G, Saran Netto A. Importance of body condition score and ovarian activity on determining the fertility in beef cows supplemented with long-acting progesterone after timed-AI. Anim Reprod Sci 2018; 198:27-36. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2018.08.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Revised: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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