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Miller LMJ, Woodward EM, Campos JR, Squires EL, Troedsson MHT. Effect of testicular degeneration on expression of sperm protein at 22 kDa in stallions. Andrology 2024; 12:211-221. [PMID: 37220913 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sperm protein at 22 kDa has been associated with fertility. OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study were to determine (1) the localization pattern of SP22 on ejaculated and caudal epididymal equine spermatozoa and in epididymal fluid, and to (2) characterize SP22 protein and mRNA expression in testicular and epididymal tissues in response to heat-induced testicular degeneration. MATERIALS AND METHODS Semen was collected before and after hemi-castration, as well as prior to and following insulation of the remaining testes, and tissue specimens were collected for analysis. RESULTS Histopathology confirmed degeneration in insulated testes. Ejaculated and epididymal spermatozoa from samples collected prior to insulation of the testicles had a predominant staining pattern of SP22 over the equatorial region. However, the equatorial pattern in the pre-insulation epididymal semen samples was significantly lower than in the pre-insulation ejaculated semen samples (68 ± 3, 81 ± 2.6, respectively). Ejaculated and epididymal samples collected after insulation of the testicles showed a complete loss of staining as the predominant pattern. Western blot analysis verified the presence of SP22 on fresh ejaculated spermatozoa prior to and following heat-induced degeneration, on epididymal spermatozoa after testicular insulation, and in testicular and epididymal tissues. Heat insulation significantly reduced messenger RNA expression in the head of the epididymis and testicular tissues. Immunohistochemistry of the testicular and epididymal tissues pre-heating showed considerably weaker staining than the same tissues post-heating. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION It was concluded that heat-induced testicular damage causes both loss and relocation of SP22 on the sperm membrane. Future studies are warranted to determine the diagnostic value of these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynda M J Miller
- Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, Tennessee, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Woodward
- Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Juliana R Campos
- Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Edward L Squires
- Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Mats H T Troedsson
- Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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Fedorka CE, Ball BA, Walker OF, McCormick ME, Scoggin KE, Kennedy LA, Squires EL, Troedsson MHT. Alterations of Circulating Biomarkers During Late Term Pregnancy Complications in the Horse Part I: Cytokines. J Equine Vet Sci 2021; 99:103425. [PMID: 33781421 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2021.103425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Equine abortions are attributed to both infectious and noninfectious causes. Clinical extrapolations are often made from the experimental model for ascending placentitis towards other causes of fetal compromise, including various markers of inflammation, including the cytokines IL-2, 5, IL-6, IL-10, IFNγ, and TNF. It is unknown if these cytokine changes are noted under field conditions, or if they increase preceding other pregnancy related complications. To assess this, Thoroughbred mares (n = 702) had weekly blood obtained beginning in December 2013 and continuing until parturition. Fetal membranes were submitted to the UKVDL for complete gross and pathologic assessment and classified as either ascending placentitis (n = 6), focal mucoid placentitis (n = 6), idiopathic abortion (n = 6) or control (n = 20). Weekly serum samples were analyzed via immunoassay for concentrations of IL-2, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, IFNγ, and TNF. For both focal mucoid placentitis and ascending placentitis, an increase (P < .05) in the concentrations of IL-2, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, IFNγ, and TNF was noted preceding parturition in comparison to controls. Cytokine profiles preceding idiopathic abortion did not differ from controls. In conclusion, serum cytokines may be considered potential biomarkers for the prediction of placental infection, while no changes in cytokine profiles were noted when noninfectious causes of abortion occurred. Additionally, this is the first study to report an increase in cytokines during the disease process of focal mucoid placentitis, the etiology of which includes Nocardioform placentitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Fedorka
- University of Kentucky, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Lexington, KY
| | - B A Ball
- University of Kentucky, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Lexington, KY.
| | - O F Walker
- Lincoln Memorial University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Harrogate, TN
| | - M E McCormick
- Rhode Island College, College of Nursing. Providence, RI; Rhode Island Department of Health. Providence, RI
| | - K E Scoggin
- University of Kentucky, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Lexington, KY
| | - L A Kennedy
- University of Kentucky, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Lexington, KY
| | - E L Squires
- University of Kentucky, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Lexington, KY
| | - M H T Troedsson
- University of Kentucky, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Lexington, KY
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Fedorka CE, Ball BA, Wynn MAA, McCormick ME, Scoggin KE, Esteller-Vico A, Curry TE, Kennedy LA, Squires EL, Troedsson MHT. Alterations of Circulating Biomarkers During Late Term Pregnancy Complications in the Horse Part II: Steroid Hormones and Alpha-Fetoprotein. J Equine Vet Sci 2021; 99:103395. [PMID: 33781417 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2021.103395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Preterm labor and/or abortion causes considerable economic impact on the equine industry. Unfortunately, few experimental models exist for the induction of various pregnancy-related complications, and therefore extrapolations are made from the experimental model for ascending placentits, although inferences may be minimal. Certain steroid hormones (progestogens, estrogens) and fetal proteins (alpha-fetoprotein; AFP) might improve the diagnostics for abnormal pregnancy, but the utility of these markers in the field is unknown. To assess this, thoroughbred mares (n = 702) were bled weekly beginning in December 2013 until parturition/abortion. Following parturition, fetal membranes were assessed histopathologically and classified as either ascending placentitis (n = 6), focal mucoid placentitis (n = 6), idiopathic abortion (n = 6) or no disease (n = 20). Weekly serum samples were analyzed for concentrations of progesterone, estradiol-17β, and AFP. Samples were analyzed retrospectively from the week of parturition/abortion in addition to the preceding four weeks. For both ascending and focal mucoid placentitis, a significant increase in progesterone and AFP was noted, alongside a significant decrease in estradiol-17β and the ratio of estradiol-17β to progesterone in comparison to controls. In contrast, idiopathic abortions experienced a decrease in progesterone concentrations alongside an increase in AFP, and this was only noted in the week preceding parturition/abortion. In conclusion, spontaneous placental infection in the horse altered both endocrine and feto-secretory markers in maternal circulation, while minimal changes were noted preceding noninfectious idiopathic abortion. Additionally, this is the first study to report an alteration in steroid hormones and AFP during the disease process of focal mucoid placentitis, the etiology of which includes Nocardioform placentitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carleigh E Fedorka
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Barry A Ball
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY.
| | - Michelle A A Wynn
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Meghan E McCormick
- Rhode Island College, College of Nursing, Providence, RI; Rhode Island Department of Health, Providence, RI
| | - Kirsten E Scoggin
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | | | - Thomas E Curry
- University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, Lexington, KY
| | - Laura A Kennedy
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Edward L Squires
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Mats H T Troedsson
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
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Esteller-Vico A, Ball BA, Bridges JW, Hughes SE, Squires EL, Troedsson MHT. Changes in circulating concentrations of testosterone and estrone sulfate after human chorionic gonadotropin administration and subsequent to castration of 2-year-old stallions. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 225:106670. [PMID: 33338983 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive steroids testosterone (T) and estrone sulfate (E1S) are used as diagnostic markers for cryptorchidism in horses. The human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) stimulation test is used as a diagnostic aid because administration of this hormone results in greater incremental differences in circulating steroid concentrations. Thoughts regarding optimal sampling times following hCG administration, however, are inconsistent. Additionally, determination of half-life of these steroids is important in postsurgical samples to confirm complete removal of testicular tissue. Objectives of this study, therefore, were to determine optimal sampling periods for peak T and E1S after hCG administration and half-life of these steroids after castration. Eight pony stallions were randomly assigned to control or treatment groups (5000 IU hCG). Blood samples were collected following hCG administration. Subsequently, stallions were castrated and blood samples were collected post-castration. The T concentrations were greatest at 72 h after hCG and were greater (P < 0.02) in samples from hCG-treated than control animals: 9,903.4 ± 384 and 784.0 ± 192 pg/mL, respectively (Mean ± SEM). The T concentrations were also greater at 1, 12, 24, 48 and 96 h. The E1S concentrations did not change after administration of hCG. The T response to hCG administration was biphasic with a maximal response between 48-96 h after administration. Half-lives of T and E1S were 1.1 and 0.7 h, respectively, and concentration of T and E1S was similar to that of geldings at 24 h post-castration, which, therefore, should be considered an optimal time to ensure complete castration has occurred.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Esteller-Vico
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Dept. of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40546, USA
| | - B A Ball
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Dept. of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40546, USA.
| | - J W Bridges
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Dept. of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40546, USA
| | - S E Hughes
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Dept. of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40546, USA; Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, 4250 Iron Works Pike, Lexington, KY, 40511, USA
| | - E L Squires
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Dept. of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40546, USA
| | - M H T Troedsson
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Dept. of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40546, USA
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Canisso IF, Loux S, Scoggin KE, Squires EL, Troedsson MH, Ball BA. Fetal-fluid proteome analyses in late-term healthy pregnant mares and in mares with experimentally induced ascending placentitis. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 31:1486-1496. [PMID: 31092309 DOI: 10.1071/rd18460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Characterisation of fetal fluids in healthy and disease states of pregnant mares can help to unravel the pathophysiology and to identify putative markers of disease. Thus, this study aimed to compare the protein composition of: (1) amniotic and allantoic fluids of healthy mares obtained immediately after euthanasia and (2) allantoic fluid harvested via centesis before and after experimental induction of placentitis via transcervical inoculation of Streptococcus equi ssp zooepidemicus in healthy mares. Fetal fluids were analysed with a high-throughput proteomic technique after in-gel digestion. Statistical comparisons were performed following normalisation of peptide spectral match. Global normalisation was performed to calculate relative expression. There were 112 unique proteins present in both allantoic and amniotic fluids. There were 13 and 29 proteins defined as amniotic- or allantoic-specific respectively that were present in at least two fluid samples. Another 26 proteins were present in both amniotic and allantoic fluids. Panther DB functional classification grouped fetal-fluid proteins as transfer carriers, signalling molecules, receptors, immunity, hydrolase, enzymes, membrane traffic, cytoskeleton, cell adhesion, calcium binding and extracellular matrix. Experimentally induced placentitis resulted in 10 proteins being upregulated and 10 downregulated in allantoic fluid. Newly identified proteins and changes in the fetal-fluid proteome provide clues about the physiology of pregnancy and pathogenesis of placentitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor F Canisso
- Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, 1400 Nicholasville Road, Lexington, KY 40503, USA; and Present address: Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 1008W Hazelwood Drive, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Shavahn Loux
- Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, 1400 Nicholasville Road, Lexington, KY 40503, USA
| | - Kirsten E Scoggin
- Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, 1400 Nicholasville Road, Lexington, KY 40503, USA
| | - Edward L Squires
- Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, 1400 Nicholasville Road, Lexington, KY 40503, USA
| | - Mats H Troedsson
- Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, 1400 Nicholasville Road, Lexington, KY 40503, USA
| | - Barry A Ball
- Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, 1400 Nicholasville Road, Lexington, KY 40503, USA; and Corresponding author.
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Loux SC, Fernandes CB, Dini P, Wang K, Wu X, Baxter D, Scoggin KE, Troedsson MHT, Squires EL, Ball BA. Small RNA (sRNA) expression in the chorioallantois, endometrium and serum of mares following experimental induction of placentitis. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 31:1144-1156. [PMID: 30947806 DOI: 10.1071/rd18400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine infection and inflammation remain a major cause of preterm labour in women and mares, with little known about small RNA (sRNA) expression in tissue or circulation. To better characterise placental inflammation (placentitis), we examined sRNA expression in the endometrium, chorioallantois and serum of mares with and without placentitis. Disease was induced in 10 mares via intracervical inoculation of Streptococcus equi ssp. zooepidemicus, either with moderate or high levels of inoculum; three uninoculated gestationally matched mares were used as controls. Matched chorioallantois and endometrium were sampled in two locations: Region 1, gross inflammation near cervical star with placental separation and Region 2, gross inflammation without placental separation. In Region 1, 26 sRNAs were altered in chorioallantois, while 20 were altered in endometrium. Within Region 2, changes were more subdued in both chorioallantois (10 sRNAs) and endometrium (two sRNAs). Within serum, we identified nine significantly altered sRNAs. In summary, we have characterised the expression of sRNA in the chorioallantois, the endometrium and the serum of mares with experimentally induced placentitis using next-generation sequencing, identifying significant changes within each tissue examined. These data should provide valuable information about the physiology of placental inflammation to clinicians and researchers alike.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shavahn C Loux
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, 1400 Nicholasville Road, Lexington, KY 40546, USA
| | - Claudia B Fernandes
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof Dr Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87, 05508-270, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Pouya Dini
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, 1400 Nicholasville Road, Lexington, KY 40546, USA
| | - Kai Wang
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Xiaogang Wu
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - David Baxter
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Kirsten E Scoggin
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, 1400 Nicholasville Road, Lexington, KY 40546, USA
| | - Mats H T Troedsson
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, 1400 Nicholasville Road, Lexington, KY 40546, USA
| | - Edward L Squires
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, 1400 Nicholasville Road, Lexington, KY 40546, USA
| | - Barry A Ball
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, 1400 Nicholasville Road, Lexington, KY 40546, USA; and Corresponding author.
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Squires EL. Perspectives on the development and incorporation of assisted reproduction in the equine industry. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 31:1753-1757. [PMID: 31727207 DOI: 10.1071/rd19365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Marked changes in equine breeding technologies have occurred over the past 25 years. Although there have been numerous reviews on assisted reproduction techniques for horses, few publications include the acceptance and impact of these techniques on the horse industry. In this review, several techniques are discussed, with an emphasis on how they developed in the horse industry and altered equine reproductive medicine. Embryo transfer has become a widely used technology, allowing multiple foals to be produced per year. Embryos can be collected, cooled or frozen, and shipped to a distant facility for transfer into recipient mares. Failure to obtain embryos from some mares stimulated the development of oocyte collection and transfer. Oocyte technologies became more practical when intracytoplasmic sperm injection was developed in the early 2000s. There are now facilities across the world that routinely produce embryos invitro. Cryopreservation of oocytes has lagged because of limited success, but embryo cryopreservation is commonplace. Techniques such as sex-sorted semen, superovulation and genetic diagnosis of embryos are not widely used, and they will require more development before they are established in the horse industry in a cost-efficient manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- E L Squires
- Reproductive Management, 5536 North County Road 3, Fort Collins, CO 80524, USA.
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Fedorka CE, Murase H, Loux SC, Loynachan AT, Walker OF, Squires EL, Ball BA, Troedsson MHT. The Effect of Mycobacterium Cell Wall Fraction on Histologic, Immunologic, and Clinical Parameters of Postpartum Involution in the Mare. J Equine Vet Sci 2020; 90:103013. [PMID: 32534779 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2020.103013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Maintaining yearly foal production is important for the economic success of the broodmare, and this requires breeding to occur as quickly postpartum as possible. The initial postpartum estrus occurs within 5-20 days postpartum, whereas the uterus is still undergoing repair from tissue alterations during pregnancy and parturition, a process known as involution. Attempts have been made to hasten this process, but with minimal success. Mycobacterium cell wall fraction (MCWF) is an immunomodulator that has been shown to reduce bacterial growth and alter aspects of the immune response to breeding, but it is unknown if MCWF hastens the process of involution. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to (1) investigate the effect of MCWF on tissue remodeling, (2) assess the effect of MCWF on the local immune system of the uterus, and (3) determine the optimal treatment interval needed for these processes to occur. We hypothesize that repeated treatments of MCWF postpartum will hasten the process of involution. To study this, 16 pregnant mares of mixed breeds were evaluated postpartum. Control mares (n = 4) received 1.5 mL lactated Ringer's solution intravenously on Day 1 (Day 0 = day of parturition) postpartum and again on Day 7, whereas treated mares either received 1.5 mL Settle intravenously on Day 1 and Day 7 (TX1; n = 6) or 1.5 mL Settle intravenously on Day 1 and then every 3 days until ovulation was detected (TX2; n = 6) and then evaluated until 15 days postpartum. Mares were assessed every 3 days for clinical, immunologic, and histologic parameters. Clinical parameters were assessed with transrectal ultrasonography and included ovarian activity, uterine fluid retention, and measurement of the uterine diameter, in addition to endometrial culture. Immunologic parameters included endometrial biopsies for quantitative polymerase chain reaction for expression of various cytokines (interleukin [IL]-1β, IL-1RN, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor [TNF], interferon [IFN]-γ, and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor) in addition to endometrial cytology. Formalin-fixed endometrial biopsies were histologically assessed for the retention of microcaruncles, dilation of endometrial glands, and inflammation of the mucosa, stratum compactum, and spongiosum. Statistics were performed using SAS 9.4, using a mixed model for repeated measures with mare and treatment as a random effect. All post-hoc analysis was done using a Tukey's honestly significant difference test. Involution was considered complete by Day 15 postpartum in all mares, and the day postpartum had a significant effect on almost all parameters investigated, indicating the immunologic process of involution. Treatment with MCWF decreased the magnitude of bacterial growth in addition to time to negative culture. In addition, MCWF increased the expression of IL-1β, IFNγ, and TNF. Although minimal treatment effect was noted histologically, a decrease in mucosal inflammation was seen in MCWF-treated mares. In conclusion, involution appears to be influenced by the immune system. In addition, MCWF appears to have a bactericidal effect on the postpartum mare, and this may be because of an increase in proinflammatory cytokines. It is unknown if this bactericidal property will improve fertility on the first estrous cycle postpartum, and future studies are needed to determine this.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carleigh E Fedorka
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY.
| | - Harutake Murase
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY; Equine Science Division, Hidaka Training and Research Center, Japan Racing Association, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Shavahn C Loux
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Alan T Loynachan
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Olivia F Walker
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, TN
| | - Edward L Squires
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Barry A Ball
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Mats H T Troedsson
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
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Ball BA, El-Sheikh Ali H, Scoggin KE, Riddle WT, Schnobrich M, Bradekamp E, Agnew M, Squires EL, Troedsson MHT. Relationship between anti-Müllerian hormone and fertility in the mare. Theriogenology 2018; 125:335-341. [PMID: 30508805 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Revised: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to evaluate; 1) the stability of measured serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) concentrations in samples after multiple freeze-thaw cycles, 2) the repeatability of AMH concentrations within mares during the same breeding season as well as across breeding seasons, and 3) the relationship between serum AMH concentrations and fertility (measured as first cycle pregnancy rates) in thoroughbred mares. For the first aim, AMH concentrations (n = 9) were examined across four freeze-thaw cycles with no significant change in measured AMH concentrations. For the second aim, serum AMH concentrations (n = 12) were examined over three successive estrous cycles and over two successive breeding seasons and AMH levels were significantly correlated for individual animals within (r; 0.71-82) or across breeding seasons (r = 0.81). For the third aim, Thoroughbred mares (n = 419) on farms in central Kentucky had blood samples taken during estrus. Pregnancy was determined with transrectal ultrasonography at Days 13-18 after mating and ovulation, and pregnancy outcome was recorded as open, pregnant or twins. The relationships between mare age, serum AMH concentrations and the interaction of age and AMH with pregnancy outcome was examined by nominal logistic regression, and the relationship between serum AMH concentrations and mare age, pregnancy outcome and the interaction of age and pregnancy outcome was examined by ANOVA. Data in this study were then stratified according to quartiles into lower (25%), mid-50% (second and third quartiles combined - 50%) and upper (25%) quartiles for age and serum AMH concentration for further analysis by logistic regression. There were significant effects of mare age and pregnancy outcome, but not their interaction on serum AMH concentrations which were higher (P = 0.04) in pregnant than in open mares (0.65 ± 0.03 vs 0.55 ± 0.04 ng/mL, respectively). Likewise, logistic regression revealed significant effect of mare age and AMH but not their interaction on pregnancy outcome on the first mated cycle. Mares in the lower AMH quartile were more likely to be open at Day 13-18 than mares in the middle (odds ratio (OR) = 1.87)=13 or upper quartile (OR = 2.62) for AMH concentrations. Mares in the mid-50% (OR = 3.91) or upper (OR = 4.97) age quartile were more likely to be open at Day 13-18 compared to mares in the young age quartile. Based upon a Chi-squared analysis, the proportion of pregnant mares differed across age quartiles (P < 0.0001) and was greater (P < 0.05) in the young mare quartile. The proportion of pregnant mares tended to differ across AMH quartile (P = 0.1), and when adjusted for age quartile using the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel Test, the proportion of pregnant mares differed (P < 0.05) across AMH quartile. In conclusion, mares with peripheral AMH concentrations in the lowest quartile had lower fertility compared to mares in the mid-50% or upper quartile.
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Affiliation(s)
- B A Ball
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, USA.
| | - H El-Sheikh Ali
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, USA; Theriogenology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Mansoura, Egypt
| | - K E Scoggin
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, USA
| | - W T Riddle
- Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - M Schnobrich
- Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - E Bradekamp
- Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - M Agnew
- Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - E L Squires
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, USA
| | - M H T Troedsson
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, USA
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Squires EL, Lexington K, McCue PM. In Memory: Robert (Bob) K. Shideler. J Equine Vet Sci 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2018.05.201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Wood PL, Ball BA, Scoggin K, Troedsson MH, Squires EL. Lipidomics of equine amniotic fluid: Identification of amphiphilic (O-acyl)-ω-hydroxy-fatty acids. Theriogenology 2018; 105:120-125. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Revised: 08/26/2017] [Accepted: 09/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Wynn MA, Esteller-Vico A, Legacki EL, Conley AJ, Loux SC, Stanley SD, Curry TE, Squires EL, Troedsson MH, Ball BA. A comparison of progesterone assays for determination of peripheral pregnane concentrations in the late pregnant mare. Theriogenology 2018; 106:127-133. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Revised: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Fernandes CB, Loux SC, Scoggin KE, Squires EL, Troedsson MH, Esteller-Vico A, Ball BA. Sex-steroid receptors, prostaglandin E2 receptors, and cyclooxygenase in the equine cervix during estrus, diestrus and pregnancy: Gene expression and cellular localization. Anim Reprod Sci 2017; 187:141-151. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2017.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Revised: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Dent LL, Mandape SN, Pratap S, Dong J, Davis J, Gaddy JA, Amoah K, Damo S, Marshall DR, Jones J, Brandt T, Diaz G, Wang Q, Gary T, Yenamandra A, Ghattas MZ, Elrakaiby M, Aziz RK, Zedan HH, Elmassry M, ElRakaiby M, Aziz RK, Lotfy M, Elmassry M, Marcel J, Khattab RA, Abdelfattah MM, Gilbert JA, Aziz RK, Dini P, Loux SC, Scoggin KE, Esteller-Vico A, Squires EL, Troedsson MHT, Daels P, Ball BA, De Silva K, Bailey E, Stephens JC, Kalbfleisch TS, Dolin CE, Poole LG, Wilkey DW, Rouchka EC, Arteel GE, Barati MT, Merchant ML, Higashi RM, Fan TWM, Moseley H, Lane AN. Proceedings of the 16th Annual UT-KBRIN Bioinformatics Summit 2016: proceedings. BMC Proc 2017. [PMCID: PMC5667591 DOI: 10.1186/s12919-017-0078-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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15
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Claes A, Ball BA, Scoggin KE, Roser JF, Woodward EM, Davolli GM, Squires EL, Troedsson MH. The influence of age, antral follicle count and diestrous ovulations on estrous cycle characteristics of mares. Theriogenology 2017; 97:34-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Revised: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Loux SC, Scoggin KE, Bruemmer JE, Canisso IF, Troedsson MHT, Squires EL, Ball BA. Evaluation of circulating miRNAs during late pregnancy in the mare. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0175045. [PMID: 28388652 PMCID: PMC5384662 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0175045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs which are produced throughout the body. Individual tissues tend to have a specific expression profile and excrete many of these miRNAs into circulation. These circulating miRNAs may be diagnostically valuable biomarkers for assessing the presence of disease while minimizing invasive testing. In women, numerous circulating miRNAs have been identified which change significantly during pregnancy-related complications (e.g. chorioamnionitis, eclampsia, recurrent pregnancy loss); however, no prior work has been done in this area in the horse. To identify pregnancy-specific miRNAs, we collected serial whole blood samples in pregnant mares at 8, 9, 10 m of gestation and post-partum, as well as from non-pregnant (diestrous) mares. In total, we evaluated a panel of 178 miRNAs using qPCR, eventually identifying five miRNAs of interest. One miRNA (miR-374b) was differentially regulated through late gestation and four miRNAs (miR-454, miR-133b, miR-486-5p and miR-204b) were differentially regulated between the pregnant and non-pregnant samples. We were able to identify putative targets for the differentially regulated miRNAs using two separate target prediction programs, miRDB and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. The targets for the miRNAs differentially regulated during pregnancy were predicted to be involved in signaling pathways such as the STAT3 pathway and PI3/AKT signaling pathway, as well as more endocrine-based pathways, including the GnRH, prolactin and insulin signaling pathways. In summary, this study provides novel information about the changes occurring in circulating miRNAs during normal pregnancy, as well as attempting to predict the biological effects induced by these miRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shavahn C. Loux
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States of America
| | - Kirsten E. Scoggin
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States of America
| | - Jason E. Bruemmer
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States of America
| | - Igor F. Canisso
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States of America
| | - Mats H. T. Troedsson
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States of America
| | - Edward L. Squires
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States of America
| | - Barry A. Ball
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Peña FJ, Ball BA, Squires EL. A New Method for Evaluating Stallion Sperm Viability and Mitochondrial Membrane Potential in Fixed Semen Samples. Cytometry B Clin Cytom 2017; 94:302-311. [PMID: 28033647 DOI: 10.1002/cyto.b.21506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2016] [Revised: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 12/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Multiparametric assessment of stallion sperm quality using flow cytometry can be a useful adjunct in semen evaluation; however, the availability of flow cytometers in veterinary practice is limited. The ability to preserve and transport sperm samples for later flow cytometric analysis using fixable probes would potentially facilitate this process. In the current study, we validated the combination of live/dead Zombie Green® (a fixable dye used to assess live and dead sperm) and MitoTracker Deep Red® (used to assess mitochondrial membrane potential). The assay was validated against classic, non-fixable, membrane assays (SYBR-14/PI). Our results demonstrated the feasibility of the assay. In conclusion, stained and fixed semen samples stored for 72 h obtained equivalent results to the exam on the same day; this new protocol shall facilitate the wider use of flow cytometry in stallion andrology in the future. © 2017 International Clinical Cytometry Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- F J Peña
- Department of Animal Medicine, Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.,Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Kentucky
| | - B A Ball
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Kentucky
| | - E L Squires
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Kentucky
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18
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Esteller-Vico A, Ball BA, Troedsson MHT, Squires EL. Endocrine changes, fetal growth, and uterine artery hemodynamics after chronic estrogen suppression during the last trimester of equine pregnancy†. Biol Reprod 2017; 96:414-423. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.116.140533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2016] [Revised: 12/03/2016] [Accepted: 12/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
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19
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Loux SC, Scoggin KE, Troedsson MHT, Squires EL, Ball BA. Characterization of the cervical mucus plug in mares. Reproduction 2017; 153:197-210. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2016] [Revised: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The cervical mucus plug (CMP) is believed to play an integral role in the maintenance of pregnancy in the mare, primarily by inhibiting microbial entry. Unfortunately, very little is known about its composition or origin. To determine the proteomic composition of the CMP, we collected CMPs from mares (n = 4) at 9 months of gestation, and proteins were subsequently analyzed by nano-LC–MS/MS. Results were searched against EquCab2.0, and proteomic pathways were predicted by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. Histologic sections of the CMP were stained with H&E and PAS. To identify the origin of highly abundant proteins in the CMP, we performed qPCR on endometrial and cervical mucosal mRNA from mares in estrus, diestrus as well as mares at 4 and 10 m gestation on transcripts for lactotransferrin, uterine serpin 14, uteroglobin, uteroferrin, deleted in malignant brain tumors 1 and mucins 4, 5b and 6. Overall, we demonstrated that the CMP is composed of a complex milieu of proteins during late gestation, many of which play an important role in immune function. Proteins traditionally considered to be endometrial proteins were found to be produced by the cervical mucosa suggesting that the primary source of the CMP is the cervical mucosa itself. In summary, composition of the equine CMP is specifically regulated not only during pregnancy but also throughout the estrous cycle. The structural and compositional changes serve to provide both a structural barrier as well as a physiological barrier during pregnancy to prevent infection of the fetus and fetal membranes.
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Fedorka CE, Scoggin KE, Woodward EM, Squires EL, Ball BA, Troedsson M. The effect of select seminal plasma proteins on endometrial mRNA cytokine expression in mares susceptible to persistent mating-induced endometritis. Reprod Domest Anim 2016; 52:89-96. [PMID: 27686063 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In the horse, breeding induces a transient endometrial inflammation. A subset of mares are unable to resolve this inflammation, and they are considered susceptible to persistent mating-induced endometritis PMIE Select seminal plasma proteins cysteine-rich secretory protein-3 (CRISP-3) and lactoferrin have been shown to affect the innate immune response to sperm in vitro. The objective of this study was to determine whether the addition of CRISP-3 and lactoferrin at the time of insemination had an effect on the mRNA expression of endometrial cytokines in susceptible mares after breeding. Six mares classified as susceptible to PMIE were inseminated during four consecutive oestrous cycles with treatments in randomized order of: 1 mg/ml CRISP-3, 150 μg/ml lactoferrin, seminal plasma (positive control) or lactated Ringer's solution (LRS; negative control) to a total volume of 10 ml combined with 1 × 109 spermatozoa pooled from two stallions. Six hours after treatment, an endometrial biopsy was obtained for qPCR analysis of selected genes associated with inflammation (pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-8, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interferon (INF)-γ, anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-1RN and IL-10, and inflammatory-modulating cytokine IL-6). Seminal plasma treatment increased the mRNA expression of IL-1β (p = .019) and IL-8 (p = .0068), while suppressing the mRNA expression of TNF (p = .0013). Lactoferrin also suppressed the mRNA expression of TNF (p = .0013). In conclusion, exogenous lactoferrin may be considered as one modulator of the complex series of events resulting in the poorly regulated pro-inflammatory response seen in susceptible mares.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Fedorka
- Department of Veterinary Science, College of Agriculture Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - K E Scoggin
- Department of Veterinary Science, College of Agriculture Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - E M Woodward
- Department of Clinical Sciences, New Bolton Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - E L Squires
- Department of Veterinary Science, College of Agriculture Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - B A Ball
- Department of Veterinary Science, College of Agriculture Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Mht Troedsson
- Department of Veterinary Science, College of Agriculture Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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22
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Wood PL, Scoggin K, Ball BA, Troedsson MH, Squires EL. Lipidomics of equine sperm and seminal plasma: Identification of amphiphilic (O-acyl)-ω-hydroxy-fatty acids. Theriogenology 2016; 86:1212-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Revised: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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23
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Klohonatz KM, Hess AM, Hansen TR, Squires EL, Bouma GJ, Bruemmer JE. Equine endometrial gene expression changes during and after maternal recognition of pregnancy. J Anim Sci 2016; 93:3364-76. [PMID: 26440005 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2014-8826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanism for maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP) in horses is unknown. To maintain a pregnancy, a mobile conceptus must be recognized by the uterus before d 14 postovulation (PO). This recognition prevents endometrial secretion of PGF2α on d14 through 16, which would otherwise initiate luteolysis. The objective of this study was to evaluate gene expression in the endometrium of pregnant and nonpregnant mares during and after MRP to identify possible genes involved during this time. Twelve normally cycling mares were used in a crossover design and randomly assigned to a specific collection day. Endometrial samples were collected from a pregnant and nonpregnant (nonmated) mare on cycle d 12, 14, 16, and 18 (n = 3/d) PO. Microarray analysis comparing the endometrial gene expression in pregnant and nonpregnant mares revealed no differences at d 12. Ten genes were identified to have consistently higher or lower expression levels in the endometrium from pregnant versus nonpregnant mares on d 14, 16, and 18 (P < 0.001). The expression of these 10 genes was further analyzed with real-time PCR. d 14, 16, and 18 gene expression patterns were consistent with the microarray analysis, but on d 12, 4 of the 10 were identified as differentially expressed. Endometrial samples were then collected on d 13 PO (n = 3) and processed for western blot and immunohistochemical analysis of 2 proteins due to their reproductive significance. SPLA2 and DKK1 antibody specificity were confirmed via western blot analysis but were not different in samples from pregnant and nonpregnant mares (P = 0.114 and P = 0.514, respectively) and cellular localization was examined by immunohistochemical analysis. This is the first study to describe gene expression and cellular localization in the endometrium at the time of MRP for these genes and suggests that the uterus does not prepare to support a pregnancy until d 14. The function of these genes may be critical in the process of MRP.
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25
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Claes A, Ball BA, Troedsson MHT, Curry TE, Squires EL, Scoggin KE. Molecular changes in the equine follicle in relation to variations in antral follicle count and anti-Müllerian hormone concentrations. Equine Vet J 2015; 48:741-748. [PMID: 26403213 DOI: 10.1111/evj.12514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2015] [Accepted: 09/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY The wide variation in circulating anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) concentrations between mares is attributed to differences in antral follicle count (AFC) which may reflect follicular function. There are few data regarding variations in AFC and associated regulatory factors for AMH in the equine follicle during follicular development. OBJECTIVES To examine molecular and hormonal differences in the equine follicle in relation to variations in AFC and circulating AMH concentrations during follicular development and to identify genes co-expressed with AMH in the equine follicle. STUDY DESIGN Observational study. METHODS Plasma AMH concentrations and AFC were determined in 30 cyclic mares. Granulosa cells, theca cells and follicular fluid were recovered from growing (n = 17) or dominant follicles (n = 13). The expression of several genes, known to be involved in folliculogenesis and steroidogenesis, was examined using real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. Intrafollicular oestradiol and AMH concentrations were determined by immunoassay. RESULTS Within growing follicles, the expression of AMH, AMHR2, ESR2 and INHA in granulosa cells was positively correlated with AFC and plasma AMH concentrations. In addition, the expression of ESR1 and FSHR was positively associated with plasma AMH concentrations. No significant associations were detected in dominant follicles. Furthermore, there was no association between AMH or oestradiol concentrations in follicular fluid and variations in AFC. Finally, the expression of AMH and genes co-expressed with AMH (AMHR2, ESR2 and FSHR) in granulosa cells as well as intrafollicular AMH concentrations decreased during follicular development while intrafollicular oestradiol concentrations increased and were inversely related to intrafollicular AMH concentrations. CONCLUSIONS This study indicates that variations in AFC and circulating AMH concentrations are associated with molecular changes in the growing equine follicle.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Claes
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
| | - B A Ball
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA.
| | - M H T Troedsson
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
| | - T E Curry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
| | - E L Squires
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
| | - K E Scoggin
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
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Peña FJ, Plaza Davila M, Ball BA, Squires EL, Martin Muñoz P, Ortega Ferrusola C, Balao da Silva C. The Impact of Reproductive Technologies on Stallion Mitochondrial Function. Reprod Domest Anim 2015; 50:529-37. [PMID: 26031351 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2015] [Accepted: 05/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The traditional assessment of stallion sperm comprises evaluation of sperm motility and membrane integrity and identification of abnormal morphology of the spermatozoa. More recently, the progressive introduction of flow cytometry is increasing the number of tests available. However, compared with other sperm structures and functions, the evaluation of mitochondria has received less attention in stallion andrology. Recent research indicates that sperm mitochondria are key structures in sperm function suffering major changes during biotechnological procedures such as cryopreservation. In this paper, mitochondrial structure and function will be reviewed in the stallion, when possible specific stallion studies will be discussed, and general findings on mammalian mitochondrial function will be argued when relevant. Especial emphasis will be put on their role as source of reactive oxygen species and in their role regulating sperm lifespan, a possible target to investigate with the aim to improve the quality of frozen-thawed stallion sperm. Later on, the impact of current sperm technologies, principally cryopreservation, on mitochondrial function will be discussed pointing out novel areas of research interest with high potential to improve current sperm technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- F J Peña
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.,Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - M Plaza Davila
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - B A Ball
- Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - E L Squires
- Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - P Martin Muñoz
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - C Ortega Ferrusola
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - C Balao da Silva
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
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Canisso IF, Ball BA, Scoggin KE, Squires EL, Williams NM, Troedsson MH. Alpha-fetoprotein is present in the fetal fluids and is increased in plasma of mares with experimentally induced ascending placentitis. Anim Reprod Sci 2015; 154:48-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2014.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2014] [Revised: 12/11/2014] [Accepted: 12/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Miller LMJ, Woodward EM, Campos JR, Squires EL, Troedsson MHT. Distribution Pattern(s) of Sperm Protein at 22 kDa (SP22) on Fresh, Cooled and Frozen/Thawed Equine Spermatozoa and Expression of SP22 in Tissues from the Testes and Epididymides of Normal Stallions. Reprod Domest Anim 2015; 50:275-282. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2014] [Accepted: 12/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- LMJ Miller
- Maxwell H.; Gluck Equine Research Center; University of Kentucky; Lexington KY USA
| | - EM Woodward
- Maxwell H.; Gluck Equine Research Center; University of Kentucky; Lexington KY USA
| | - JR Campos
- Maxwell H.; Gluck Equine Research Center; University of Kentucky; Lexington KY USA
| | - EL Squires
- Maxwell H.; Gluck Equine Research Center; University of Kentucky; Lexington KY USA
| | - MHT Troedsson
- Maxwell H.; Gluck Equine Research Center; University of Kentucky; Lexington KY USA
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Canisso IF, Ball BA, Cray C, Squires EL, Troedsson MH. Use of a Qualitative Horse-Side Test to Measure Serum Amyloid A in Mares With Experimentally Induced Ascending Placentitis. J Equine Vet Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2014.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Coutinho da Silva MA, Seidel GE, Squires EL, Graham JK, Carnevale EM. Effects of milk proteins on sperm binding to the zona pellucida and intracellular Ca(2+) concentration in stallion sperm. Anim Reprod Sci 2014; 150:24-9. [PMID: 25213434 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2014.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2014] [Revised: 07/30/2014] [Accepted: 08/08/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Objectives were to determine the effects of extracellular Ca(2+) and milk proteins on intracellular Ca(2+) concentrations in stallion sperm; and to determine the effects of single caseins on sperm binding to the zona pellucida (ZP). In Experiment I, sperm were incubated in media containing 2 or 4mM Ca(2+) and intracellular Ca(2+) concentration was determined after ionomycin treatment and long-term incubation (3h). Extracellular Ca(2+) concentrations (2 compared with 4mM) did not affect baseline intracellular Ca(2+) concentration of sperm. However, incubating sperm in a medium containing 4 compared with 2mM Ca(2+) resulted in greater (P<0.05) influx of Ca(2+) into sperm. In Experiment II, sperm incubated in media containing 1mg/mL of native phosphocaseinate (NP) or sodium caseinate (SC) showed similar baseline intracellular Ca(2+) and influx of Ca(2+) than control (TALP). In Experiment III, sperm-ZP binding assays were performed in TALP medium containing: no additions (TALP); 1mg/mL SC; 1 or 3mg/mL of α-casein; 1 or 3mg/mL of β-casein; and 1 or 3mg/mL of κ-casein. The number of stallion sperm bound to bovine ZP was greatest (P<0.05) when SC was used. Co-incubation in media containing single caseins (α-, β- or κ-casein) resulted in similar results to TALP; however, a dose effect (P<0.05) was observed for β- and κ-caseins. In conclusion, extracellular Ca(2+) concentration and milk proteins did not affect baseline intracellular calcium in stallion sperm. It appears that β- and κ-caseins may be responsible for enhancing sperm binding to ZP, but the mechanism remains unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - George E Seidel
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Edward L Squires
- Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546, USA
| | - James K Graham
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Elaine M Carnevale
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
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Campos JR, Breheny P, Araujo RR, Troedsson MH, Squires EL, Timoney PJ, Balasuriya UB. Semen quality of stallions challenged with the Kentucky 84 strain of equine arteritis virus. Theriogenology 2014; 82:1068-79. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2014] [Revised: 06/11/2014] [Accepted: 07/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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32
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Claes A, Ball BA, Scoggin KE, Esteller-Vico A, Kalmar JJ, Conley AJ, Squires EL, Troedsson MHT. The interrelationship between anti-Müllerian hormone, ovarian follicular populations and age in mares. Equine Vet J 2014; 47:537-41. [PMID: 25124401 DOI: 10.1111/evj.12328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2014] [Accepted: 08/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a granulosa-cell-derived glycoprotein, which plays an important inhibitory role during folliculogenesis. Concentrations of AMH are highly correlated with antral follicle counts (AFCs) in other species, which in turn are related to follicular reserve. Relatively little is known about AMH and AFC in the mare. OBJECTIVES To determine plasma AMH concentrations and AFCs in mares of different ages, to measure the repeatability of AMH concentrations and AFCs within and across oestrous cycles and to assess the relationship between plasma AMH concentrations and AFCs with regard to mare age and follicle size. STUDY DESIGN An observational study examining the relationship between AMH, AFC and age in 45 mares. METHODS Young (3-8 years), middle-aged (9-18 years) and old mares (19-27 years) were examined by transrectal ultrasonography over 2 or 3 oestrous cycles. Plasma AMH concentrations and AFCs were determined, and antral follicles were classified by size into different groups. RESULTS Plasma AMH concentrations varied widely between mares within similar age groups. Antral follicle counts were significantly lower in old mares than in young and middle-aged mares, and AMH concentrations were significantly lower in old than in middle-aged mares. A positive relationship was detected between AFC and AMH, and this relationship varied by mare age with a strong correlation in older mares (ρ = 0.86; P<0.0001), a moderate correlation in middle-aged mares (ρ = 0.60; P = 0.01) and no correlation in young mares (ρ = 0.40, P<0.4). The AMH concentrations were significantly related to the number of antral follicles between 6 and 20 mm in diameter, and the repeatability of AFCs and AMH concentrations was high within and between oestrous cycles. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that the relationship between AMH and AFC varies across age groups, and concentrations of AMH might be a better reflection of reproductive age than calendar age.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Claes
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
| | - B A Ball
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
| | - K E Scoggin
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
| | - A Esteller-Vico
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
| | - J J Kalmar
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
| | - A J Conley
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, USA
| | - E L Squires
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
| | - M H T Troedsson
- Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
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Canisso IF, Ball BA, Cray C, Williams NM, Scoggin KE, Davolli GM, Squires EL, Troedsson MH. Serum Amyloid A and Haptoglobin Concentrations are Increased in Plasma of Mares with Ascending Placentitis in the Absence of Changes in Peripheral Leukocyte Counts or Fibrinogen Concentration. Am J Reprod Immunol 2014; 72:376-85. [DOI: 10.1111/aji.12278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 05/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Igor F. Canisso
- Reproduction Laboratory; The Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center; Department of Veterinary Science; University of Kentucky; Lexington KY USA
| | - Barry A. Ball
- Reproduction Laboratory; The Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center; Department of Veterinary Science; University of Kentucky; Lexington KY USA
| | - Carolyn Cray
- Division of Comparative Pathology; Miller School of Medicine; University of Miami; Miami FL USA
| | - Neil M. Williams
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory; Department of Veterinary Science; University of Kentucky; Lexington KY USA
| | - Kirsten E. Scoggin
- Reproduction Laboratory; The Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center; Department of Veterinary Science; University of Kentucky; Lexington KY USA
| | - Gabriel M. Davolli
- Reproduction Laboratory; The Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center; Department of Veterinary Science; University of Kentucky; Lexington KY USA
| | - Edward L. Squires
- Reproduction Laboratory; The Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center; Department of Veterinary Science; University of Kentucky; Lexington KY USA
| | - Mats H. Troedsson
- Reproduction Laboratory; The Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center; Department of Veterinary Science; University of Kentucky; Lexington KY USA
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Woodward EM, Christoffersen M, Horohov D, Squires EL, Troedsson MHT. The effect of treatment with immune modulators on endometrial cytokine expression in mares susceptible to persistent breeding-induced endometritis. Equine Vet J 2014; 47:235-9. [PMID: 24645833 DOI: 10.1111/evj.12266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2013] [Accepted: 02/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY Research has shown that 6 h after breeding is a critical time during the uterine innate immune response, and the failure to respond appropriately will result in persistent breeding-induced endometritis. This presents a potential opportunity to modulate the course of inflammation towards a timely resolution. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effects of immune modulation on endometrial mRNA expression of inflammatory genes in susceptible mares 6 h after breeding. The hypothesis was that immune modulation alters endometrial cytokine expression in susceptible mares. STUDY DESIGN A randomised controlled study to evaluate the effects of mycobacterial cell wall extract and dexamethasone on endometrial gene expression after insemination in 6 mares susceptible to persistent breeding-induced endometritis. METHODS Six susceptible mares were selected based on their uterine inflammatory response to insemination. Mares were inseminated during 3 oestrous cycles with 1 × 10(9) nonviable spermatozoa and 1) no additional treatment (control), or in combination with 2) dexamethasone (50 mg i.v.) at the time of insemination, or 3) with mycobacterial cell wall extract (1.5 ml i.v.) administered 24 h prior to insemination. Mares received one treatment per cycle in randomised order, and each mare served as her own control. Endometrial biopsies were collected 6 h after breeding, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis for interleukin (IL)1β, IL6, interferon γ, IL10 and IL1RA was performed. Relative quantification values reported fold changes in mRNA expression from the control. Data were analysed using an ANOVA and significance was set at P<0.05. RESULTS Expression of IL1β mRNA was lower after treatment with dexamethasone (P<0.001) and mycobacterial cell wall extract (P<0.05) when compared with control. No differences were detected in the mRNA expression of the other cytokines after any of the treatments. CONCLUSIONS Treatment with immune modulators alters endometrial mRNA expression of IL1β after insemination. A better understanding of the mechanisms of immune modulation in the equine uterus can help to improve treatments for persistent breeding-induced endometritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Woodward
- Department of Veterinary Science, The Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
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Cerny KL, Little TV, Scoggin CF, Coleman RJ, Troedsson MH, Squires EL. Presence of Bacteria on the External Genitalia of Healthy Stallions and its Transmission to the Mare at the Time of Breeding by Live Cover. J Equine Vet Sci 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2013.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Woodward EM, Christoffersen M, Campos J, Betancourt A, Horohov D, Scoggin KE, Squires EL, Troedsson MHT. Endometrial inflammatory markers of the early immune response in mares susceptible or resistant to persistent breeding-induced endometritis. Reproduction 2013; 145:289-96. [PMID: 23580950 DOI: 10.1530/rep-12-0452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Transient endometritis after breeding is necessary for clearance of bacteria and spermatozoa; however, in a subpopulation of mares, the inflammation fails to resolve in a timely fashion. The objective of this study was to describe the uterine inflammatory response in mares susceptible or resistant to persistent breeding-induced endometritis (PBIE) during the first 24 h after induction of uterine inflammation.Twelve mares were classified as susceptible (nZ6) or resistant (nZ6) to PBIE. Mares were inseminated over five estrous cycles and endometrial biopsies were collected at one time point per cycle before (0) and 2, 6, 12, and 24 h after insemination. qPCR analysis for IL1B, IL6, IL8, IFNG, TNF (TNFA), IL10, and IL1RN was performed, and endometrial inflammatory cells were counted for each sample. Relative quantification values reported fold changes in mRNA expression from 0 h values. A general pattern of expression post insemination was observed in both groups of mares. Cytokine mRNA increased at 2 h, peaked between 2 and 12 h, and then decreased.Differences were detected between groups of mares 6 h after challenge; resistant mares had higher mRNA expression of IL6, IL1RN,and IL10 than susceptible mares. Susceptible mares had an increased number of polymorphonuclear neutrophils in the endometrium 2 and 12 h after breeding when compared with resistant mares. These findings describe an inherent difference in the initial immune response to insemination and may help explain the transient nature of inflammation in resistant mares, whereas susceptible mares develop a persistent inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Woodward
- Department of Veterinary Science, The Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546-0099, USA.
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Berndtson WE, Squires EL, Thompson DL. Spermatogenesis, testicular composition and the concentration of testosterone in the equine testis as influenced by season. Theriogenology 2012; 20:449-57. [PMID: 16725860 DOI: 10.1016/0093-691x(83)90204-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/1983] [Accepted: 08/17/1983] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The influence of season on spermatogenesis, testicular composition and the concentration of testosterone in the equine testis was evaluated using testes from 45 stallions. Testes were obtained through a commercial abbatoir during September, December-January, March and July. The weights of the testes, the tunica albuginea and testicular parenchyma and the proportion of the testicular parenchyma occupied by seminiferous tubules or interstitial tissue were similar during each season. How ever, diameter of the seminiferous tubules was greater in July than during other months of the study. In addition, the concentration of testosterone within the testicular parenchyma was twice as great during July as during the fall and winter, and this period of peak testicular testosterone concentrations was associated with spermatozoal production rates, which were 65% greater than those observed in September.
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Affiliation(s)
- W E Berndtson
- Department of Animal Sciences University of New Hampshire Durham, New Hampshire 03824 UK
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Cristanelli MJ, Squires EL, Amann RP, Pickett BW. Fertility of stallion semen processed, frozen and thawed by a new procedure. Theriogenology 2012; 22:39-45. [PMID: 16725934 DOI: 10.1016/0093-691x(84)90471-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/1983] [Accepted: 04/24/1984] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The fertility of frozen-thawed and fresh semen from three stallions was compared in a trial using a randomized block design and 90 mares for 108 cycles. Semen was collected every third day, diluted to 50 x 10(6) sperm/ml with a citrate-based centrifugation medium, and centrifuged. The cells were resuspended at 700 x 10(6) progressively motile sperm/1.0 ml of added lactose-EDTA-egg yolk extender containing 4% glycerol, packaged by placing 0.55 ml into polypropylene straws, and frozen. Semen was thawed by immersion in 75 degrees C water for 10 sec. All of the 43 ejaculates collected were frozen, but 21 were discarded because progressive sperm motility was <35% immediately after thawing or <40% after 30 min of incubation at 37 degrees C. semen from the same stallions was collected daily for inseminations with fresh semen. Semen containing 200 x 10(6) progressively motile sperm was added to 10 ml of heated skimmilk extender. Mares were inseminated daily starting on the third day of estrus or when a >/=4-cm follicle was detected, whichever came later, and continuing through the end of estrus or for nine days. Based on palpation per rectum on day 50 postovulation, the pregnancy rates from inseminations during one estrus were 50, 56 and 61% with frozen semen and 67, 67 and 61% with fresh semen (P>0.05) from the three stallions, respectively. Thus, mean pregnancy rate with frozen semen was 86% of the rate attained with fresh semen.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Cristanelli
- Animal Reproduction Laboratory Colorado State University Fort Collins, CO 80521 USA
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Klein C, Donahue JM, Sells SF, Squires EL, Timoney PJ, Troedsson MHT. Effect of antimicrobial-containing semen extender on risk of dissemination of contagious equine metritis. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2012; 241:916-21. [DOI: 10.2460/javma.241.7.916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Patterson AL, Squires EL, Hansen TR, Bouma GJ, Bruemmer JE. Gene profiling of inflammatory genes in day 18 endometria from pregnant and non-pregnant mares. Mol Reprod Dev 2012; 79:777-84. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2012] [Accepted: 09/05/2012] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Cerny KL, Hughes S, Campos JR, Coleman RJ, Troedsson MH, Squires EL. Fertility of Mares Inseminated With Frozen-Thawed Semen Processed by Single Layer Centrifugation Through a Colloid. J Equine Vet Sci 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2011.09.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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Coutinho da Silva MA, Seidel GE, Squires EL, Graham JK, Carnevale EM. Effects of components of semen extenders on the binding of stallion spermatozoa to bovine or equine zonae pellucidae. Reproduction 2012; 143:577-85. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-11-0099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The effects of semen extender components on the ability of stallion sperm to bind to the zona pellucida (ZP) and the suitability of using bovine ZP for a ZP-binding assay for stallion sperm were investigated in a series of experiments. In Experiment I, binding of stallion sperm to both bovine and equine ZP was significantly increased when a skim milk-based extender (EZM) was used. In Experiment II, a threefold increase in sperm binding to ZP was observed when sperm were diluted in EZM compared with diluents, which contained no milk (TALP, LAC, and EmCare). In Experiment III, centrifuging the sperm through Percoll did not increase sperm binding to the ZP but did remove any positive effect of EZM on sperm–ZP binding. In Experiment IV, exposure of either sperm or ZP to EZM before co-incubation did not increase sperm binding to ZP. In Experiment V, sperm diluted in TALP containing skim milk, EZM, or INRA96 bound more efficiently to the ZP than sperm diluted in TALP without milk proteins. In Experiment VI, sodium caseinate, native phosphocaseinate, and caseinoglycopeptide increased sperm binding to the ZP. In conclusion, diluents containing milk or milk proteins markedly enhanced the number of sperm bound to both equine and bovine ZP.
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Woodward EM, Christoffersen M, Campos J, Squires EL, Troedsson MHT. Susceptibility to persistent breeding-induced endometritis in the mare: relationship to endometrial biopsy score and age, and variations between seasons. Theriogenology 2012; 78:495-501. [PMID: 22494681 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2012.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2011] [Revised: 02/15/2012] [Accepted: 02/15/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The objectives were to: (1) investigate the associations of age and endometrial biopsy score with uterine fluid retention after insemination; and (2) determine if a strict classification of susceptibility to persistent breeding-induced endometritis (PBIE) based on biopsy score, endometrial cytology, and fluid retention after inseminations, is consistent over subsequent breeding seasons. In Experiment 1, 57 mares were inseminated with 10(9) freeze-killed sperm during estrus and evaluated for uterine fluid retention 48 h and 96 h after insemination. Comparisons were made between fluid retention and biopsy score or age. In Experiment 2, a subset of 14 mares was classified for susceptibility to persistent breeding-induced endometritis in two subsequent breeding seasons. Biopsy score and age were associated with fluid retention (P < 0.001). In addition, age was related to biopsy score (P < 0.001). Of the mares examined for susceptibility, 36% (5 of 14) changed status during subsequent seasons. Three mares changed to a more severe classification (intermediate to susceptible, or resistant to intermediate), whereas two mares changed to a less severe classification (susceptible to intermediate).
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Woodward
- The Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA.
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Squires EL. The Role of an Editor. J Equine Vet Sci 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2010.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Squires EL. Versatility of the Horse. J Equine Vet Sci 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2010.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Cullingford EL, Squires EL, McCue PM, Seidel GE. Attempts at Superovulation of Mares With Porcine Follicle Stimulating Hormone and Recombinant Equine Follicle Stimulating Hormone. J Equine Vet Sci 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2010.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Squires EL. Planning for the Future. J Equine Vet Sci 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2010.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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