Reproduction In Domestic Animals = Zuchthygiene[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Methods for Evaluating Testicular Function in Domestic Cats.
Homola S, Sendag S, Koca D … +1 more , Wehrend A
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40055997 · Full text
This study aimed to describe the physiological sonomorphology of the cat testicle and to verify the findings by histological and endocrinological analyses. Furthermore, two methods of testicle measurement and volume calc...
This study aimed to describe the physiological sonomorphology of the cat testicle and to verify the findings by histological and endocrinological analyses. Furthermore, two methods of testicle measurement and volume calculation were compared. For the study, a clinical examination of the testicles was carried out in 39 cats. The testicles were measured with the Podany testimeter and using a sonographic examination. This was followed by a castration and histological examination of the testicle. The testosterone level was measured from a blood sample. The cat testicles showed a characteristic sonomorphology. The parenchyma was homogeneous, with a distinct echogenic mediastinum. The histological examination verified that there was spermatogenesis activity in testicular tissue. It was found that the testosterone concentrations varied greatly between the animals (0.1-4.40 ng/mL) although spermatogenesis was detected in all cats. Significant correlations were detected between right and left testicular volumes of the cats according to the measured values of sonography and Podany testimeter (p < 0.001). In addition, there was a significant and positive correlation between testosterone and testicular volume. Testosterone levels increase with increasing testicular volume according to the sonographic method (p < 0.05). With the help of the sonographic measurement, significantly higher testicular volumes are calculated than were compared with the measurement method with the Podany testimeter (p < 0.05). The present study is the first to provide detailed information and reliable data for the evaluation of the testicle size and volume in male cats as well as for sonomorphology, which can be used as comparison values for the andrological examination of this animal species.
Short-Term Storage of Collared Peccary Semen in a Transport Container at 5°C Using Different Extenders.
Dos Santos RP, Moreira SSJ, Bezerra LGP … +5 more , Matos YG, Luz NRN, Brito PAP, Jorge-Neto PN, Silva AR
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40052759 · Publisher ↗
The advancement of short-term storage methods for collared peccary semen targets its potential application in artificial insemination programmes and for combination with cryopreservation techniques. The objective of this...
The advancement of short-term storage methods for collared peccary semen targets its potential application in artificial insemination programmes and for combination with cryopreservation techniques. The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of a transport container (Botutainer) for the preservation of collared peccary semen using commercial extenders (BTS, NUTRIXcell+ and PRIMXcell Ultra) as well as a TRIS + egg yolk extender. Ten ejaculates obtained by electroejaculation were diluted and stored at 5°C for 72 h. The cooled samples were analysed for kinetic aspects (using a computerised system), membrane functionality (hyposmotic test), membrane integrity and mitochondrial activity (fluorescent probes), morphology (Rose Bengal staining) and sperm binding capacity (to the perivitelline membrane of the egg yolk). After 72 h of storage, TRIS, NUTRIXcell and PRIMXcell preserved approximately 60% of motile sperm and 50%-65% of membrane integrity. In contrast, BTS was not effective in maintaining these parameters, preserving only ~40% and 50%, respectively (p < 0.05). All extenders preserved ~50% to 65% of mitochondrial activity and 72%-78% of normal sperm morphology up to 72 h. TRIS was the only extender that preserved ~75% of membrane functionality for 72 h. Finally, BTS exhibited a reduction in perivitelline membrane binding potential after 48 h (p < 0.05), whereas the other extenders showed results comparable to fresh semen. In summary, we demonstrate the effectiveness of the Botutainer device for preserving peccary semen at 5°C for up to 72 h using TRIS, NUTRIXcell and PRIMXcell extenders.
Contraceptive Strategies for Female Cattle: Efficacy and Zootechnical Aspects.
Adamich DG, Azeredo LC, de Moraes FP … +3 more , Missio D, de Oliveira FC, Gasperin BG
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40047085 · Publisher ↗
Unwanted pregnancies at the slaughterhouse are a recurring problem globally, compromising ethical aspects and animal welfare, and causing production losses. This review explores contraceptive strategies for female cattle...
Unwanted pregnancies at the slaughterhouse are a recurring problem globally, compromising ethical aspects and animal welfare, and causing production losses. This review explores contraceptive strategies for female cattle, focusing on both management practices and suppression of the estrous cycle and/or fertilisation. Contraceptive techniques such as surgical castration, emasculation of the ovaries with rubber rings, intrauterine devices (IUDs), GnRH agonist implants, and immunocastration are discussed. Surgical castration, although efficient, is an invasive procedure that compromises animal welfare. Alternative methods, such as IUDs and GnRH implants, lack commercially available products and large-scale efficacy studies. Immunocastration is easy to apply and does not require specialised equipment, but also requires further studies to evaluate its effects on animal performance. Despite the various contraceptive alternatives available, the high number of pregnant females slaughtered highlights the need for awareness among producers and technicians, as well as more in-depth studies on strategies that can promote benefits to animals and production.
Effect of Enhanced Uterine Involution on Reproductive Performance in Multiparous Ewes.
Zhang D, Wang C, Zhu T … +7 more , Tao H, Liu L, Li X, Wang H, Hu G, Wang Y, Zeng W
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40047084 · Publisher ↗
Rapid uterus involution is essential for minimising interpartum intervals, enhancing reproductive performance, and optimising production in ewes. This study aimed to accelerate the uterine involution of postpartum ewes t...
Rapid uterus involution is essential for minimising interpartum intervals, enhancing reproductive performance, and optimising production in ewes. This study aimed to accelerate the uterine involution of postpartum ewes through a relatively simple hormone treatment approach. In this study, 96 Dorper × Hu F1 ewes were assigned to three groups. The ewes were subsequently injected with normal saline (control group), prostaglandin + oxytocin (PG + OT group) and prostaglandin + oxytocin + horse chorionic gonadotropin (PG + OT + eCG group). Each group had 16 ewes producing a single lamb and 16 ewes producing twin lambs used to determine the effects of different treatments on their uterine involution and reproductive performance. PG + OT + eCG treatment accelerated the rate of uterine horn involution of single lambs (21.40 ± 0.89 days vs. 30.66 ± 1.03 days, p < 0.05) and twin hlambs (22.2 ± 1.09 days vs. 30.33 ± 0.81 days, p < 0.05) compared to the control group. PG + OT + eCG treatment also accelerated the regression of the uterine wall serosa structure and the removal of uterine effusion compared to PG + OT treatment, whose effect was moderate. PG + OT and PG + OT + eCG treatments had no significant effect on the recovery of the maximum uterine diameter of single and double lambing ewes compared to the control group. However, both treatments shortened the first estrus time of postpartum ewes (53.73 ± 3.69 days vs. 48.06 ± 5.87 days vs. 46.46 ± 7.41 days, p > 0.05). There was no significant difference in the conception rate among groups (p > 0.05). Notably, the change trend of reproductive hormones in postpartum ewes was consistent. PG + OT and PG + OT + eCG treatments significantly increased the concentration of estradiol and follicle-stimulating hormone during uterine involution (p < 0.05), but inhibited the secretion of progesterone compared to the control group. The peak of the luteinising hormone in the two treatment groups appeared 14 days earlier compared to that of the control group. In summary, exogenous PG + OT + eCG increases the concentration of estradiol during uterine involution, inhibits the secretion of progesterone, and accelerates the postpartum uterine involution and postpartum estrus time of ewes. These findings provide a basis for exploring the mechanism of uterine involution in sheep and improving sheep production efficiency.
Effect of Dilution Media and Incubation Time on Motility, Kinetic and Morphometric Parameters of Canine Spermatozoa Using CASA System.
Belala R, Medjkoune M, Aiche A … +1 more , Mimoune N
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40047045 · Publisher ↗
The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of two dilution media and five incubation times at 37°C on the kinetic and morphometric parameters of canine spermatozoa (spz) using computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA)....
The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of two dilution media and five incubation times at 37°C on the kinetic and morphometric parameters of canine spermatozoa (spz) using computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA). To do so, 14 ejaculates were collected from six dogs, and initially assessed (microscopy for motility and photometer for concentration). Each ejaculate was divided into two aliquots and diluted in two different solutions (PBS 'phosphate-buffered saline' and a commercial buffer solution 'EBB: Easy Buffer B') at a concentration of 25 million spz/mL then incubated at 37°C for five different times (T0, 10, 20, 30 and 40 min after collection) before being analysed by Hamilton-Thorne IVOS II CASA system. The analyser automatically generated two motility percentages, eight kinetic parameters and six morphometric parameters. The results showed that the sperm analysis by HT-IVOS II immediately after collection without prior incubation (T0), presented a decrease in the percentages of motility and kinetic parameters. On the other hand, incubation at 37°C for 20 min did not show any significant difference compared to T0 + 10 min. The spz retained their motility, kinetic and morphometric parameters in a similar way to the reference time (10 min). On the contrary, the incubation times T0 + 30 min and T0 + 40 min showed a highly significant difference compared to T0 and T0 + 10 min. The percentages of total and progressive motility and the kinetic parameters dropped considerably, so these times (30 and 40 min) are unsuitable for the incubation of canine spz before analysis by the HT-IVOS II system. To conclude, incubation at T0 + 20 min seems to be a good alternative to T0 + 10 min and PBS medium tends to be an acceptable substitute of EBB medium; this trend requires further exploration to be confirmed.
Cryopreservation-Induced Changes in Protamine Levels and DNA Fragmentation in Alpaca Spermatozoa.
Juárez J, Gutiérrez A, Anchiraico L … +4 more , Evangelista-Vargas S, Ugarelli A, Morrell JM, Santiani A
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40040334 · Publisher ↗
Cryopreservation is known to destabilise spermatozoa and is associated with deficiencies in protamine levels and increased DNA fragmentation, which can reduce fertility in various species. The objective of this study was...
Cryopreservation is known to destabilise spermatozoa and is associated with deficiencies in protamine levels and increased DNA fragmentation, which can reduce fertility in various species. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of cryopreservation on protamine levels and DNA fragmentation in alpaca spermatozoa. A total of 108 testicles/epididymides were collected from a slaughterhouse and sperm were recovered from the cauda epididymis. Only samples meeting the criteria of > 10 g in weight, > 3 cm in length, > 30% motility, and > 50 million spermatozoa/mL were processed. Sixty samples (n = 60) were suitable for cryopreservation: 30 were used to assess protamine levels, and 30 to evaluate DNA fragmentation. Assessments were conducted both before and after cryopreservation using imaging flow cytometry. Protamine levels were assessed with chromomycin A3 (CMA3, 0.25 mg/mL), where fluorescence inversely correlates with protamination levels. The TUNEL assay was used to analyse DNA fragmentation, following fixation with 0.4% formaldehyde and permeabilisation with 0.8% Triton X-100. Results showed a significant decrease in CMA3 mean fluorescence after cryopreservation (288.19 ± 145.53 mFL vs. 68.54 ± 51.25 mFL, p < 0.05) and an increase in DNA fragmentation (2.98 ± 2.39 vs. 9.45 ± 15.43, p < 0.05). In conclusion, cryopreservation decreases CMA3 fluorescence, related to a possible increase in protamination, and increases DNA fragmentation in alpaca spermatozoa.
Thiamethoxam Exposure Impairs Oocyte Maturation via Induction of Lipid Metabolism and Mitochondrial Dysfunctions in Porcine.
Wang C, Peng H, Yuan X … +4 more , Ji H, Xu Y, Kim NH, Li Y
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40034099 · Publisher ↗
Neonicotinoid insecticides (NEOs) are the most widely used pesticides in modern agriculture, and there are residues in the environment and food. Thiamethoxam (TMX) has been proven to destroy the ovarian homeostasis of mi...
Neonicotinoid insecticides (NEOs) are the most widely used pesticides in modern agriculture, and there are residues in the environment and food. Thiamethoxam (TMX) has been proven to destroy the ovarian homeostasis of mice in vivo and reduce the development of porcine oocytes in vitro. However, whether TMX can interfere with porcine oocyte maturation and its potential mechanism remains unknown. This study indicated that TMX affects the expansion of cumulus cells, destroys the balance of lipid metabolism, and damages mitochondrial function. TMX treatment decreased the expression of genes related to cumulus cell expansion, lipid synthesis and mitochondrial synthesis. Collectively, results confirm that TMX exposure can damage oocyte maturation and produce reproductive toxicity by inducing lipid metabolism and mitochondrial dysfunction in porcine.
Follicular B-Mode Echotexture Parameters at P4 Insert Removal and Their Association With Pregnancy Outcomes in Beef Cows Undergoing Timed AI Protocol.
Pinzón-Osorio CA, Bellido-Quispe DK, Machado MA … +3 more , de Oliveira FC, Rodrigues JL, Bertolini M
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40029018 · Publisher ↗
This study aimed to determine the relationship between echogenicity and heterogeneity of ovarian structures and cyclicity status, estrus expression and pregnancy per artificial insemination (P/AI) in multiparous beef cow...
This study aimed to determine the relationship between echogenicity and heterogeneity of ovarian structures and cyclicity status, estrus expression and pregnancy per artificial insemination (P/AI) in multiparous beef cows during timed-artificial insemination (TAI). An ultrasound ovarian examination was carried out in 406 crossbred suckled cows at progesterone (P4) insert removal on D8 of a TAI protocol and at pregnancy diagnosis 30 days after TAI. Follicular (antrum, wall and perifollicular stroma) and luteal morphometry, and echotexture and heterogeneity parameters were analysed on D8 and D30 after TAI, respectively. Follicles that did not reach divergence (< 8.5 mm) at P4 removal had higher antral echotexture and heterogeneity values (p < 0.0001) than those that surpassed divergence (> 8.5 mm). Lower follicular antrum echotexture levels at P4 removal positively correlated with subsequent estrus expression and pregnancy outcomes (p < 0.05), and negatively with follicle size (p < 0.0001). Luteal echotexture varied according to the originating follicle size (p < 0.05), with no differences between pregnant and non-pregnant cows 30 days after TAI. Cows had higher odds of estrus expression (Se, 70.61%; Sp, 61.05%; AUC 0.80; p < 0.0001) and attaining P/AI (Se, 64.52%; Sp, 61.05%; AUC 0.73; p < 0.0001) with lower follicular antrum echotexture (overall cut-off ≤ 14.25). The results show that echotexture values in antral follicles on D8 are strongly associated with pregnancy outcomes and may be useful for predicting success in TAI protocols.
Luteal Function and Pregnancy Rate in Bos taurus Heifers Treated With GnRH Prior to Timed Artificial Insemination.
Camozzato JNB, Souza BF, Rodrigues JM … +7 more , Léo AMP, Pfeifer LFM, Bertolini M, Rovani MT, Mondadori RG, Gasperin BG, Oliveira FC
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40028831 · Publisher ↗
The study aimed to evaluate the effects of GnRH given 34 h after progesterone (P4) intravaginal device (IVD) removal in a timed artificial insemination (TAI) protocol. In Experiment 1, 17 Hereford and Braford heifers (co...
The study aimed to evaluate the effects of GnRH given 34 h after progesterone (P4) intravaginal device (IVD) removal in a timed artificial insemination (TAI) protocol. In Experiment 1, 17 Hereford and Braford heifers (control, n = 7; GnRH34; n = 10) received 2 mg estradiol benzoate (EB) and a 1 g P4 IVD on Day 0 (D0). On D8, IVDs were removed and 150 μg d-cloprostenol (PGF) and 1 mg estradiol cypionate (EC) were administered. In the GnRH34 group, animals received 25 μg lecirelin 34 h after the IVD removal (D9). TAI was performed in both groups on D10 (48 h after IVD removal). Follicular dynamics were evaluated from D8 until ovulation; blood samples were collected 7 and 12 days after TAI. In Experiment 2, to evaluate the effect of GnRH34 on pregnancy rates (control, n = 187; GnRH34; n = 203), heifers were subjected to the TAI protocols described in Experiment 1. No significant differences were observed in preovulatory follicle (POF) diameter on D10, follicular growth and ovulation rates until 72 h and P4 concentrations on days 7 and 12 after TAI (p > 0.05). Pregnancy rates (PR) were similar between groups (Control = 50.2%; GnRH34 = 50.2%; p = 0.65). A significant effect of body weight (BW) and body condition score (BCS) on PR was observed for control (p< 0.05), but not for GnRH34. In conclusion, GnRH 34 h after the IVD removal in beef heifers previously treated with EC had no effect on luteal function and fertility.
The Percentage of Normal Sperm Declines in Consecutively Collected Ejaculates of Ram Semen.
Seymour KR, Rickard JP, de Graaf SP
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40028825 · Full text
Sperm morphology is an important marker of fertility in livestock. Since poor sperm morphology can disqualify a sire from being sold or used for breeding, it is crucial to understand the factors that influence changes in...
Sperm morphology is an important marker of fertility in livestock. Since poor sperm morphology can disqualify a sire from being sold or used for breeding, it is crucial to understand the factors that influence changes in sperm morphology over time. It is often hypothesised that little variation exists in sperm morphology from ejaculate to ejaculate so long as factors such as nutrition, season, health, and thermal status remain the same. This study aimed to test this hypothesis by investigating the morphology of sperm collected from rams (Ovine aries) (n = 3) twice daily, three times per week, over an 8-week period. Sperm morphology was evaluated using an eight-category classification system. Results revealed that each ram exhibited high levels of variability, with only 10.4% of ejaculates within ±5% of their own mean percentage normal sperm (PNS). The percentage of normal sperm over the 8-week period was significantly influenced by intra-week variation, although no consistent trend was observed across the full duration of the study. Within each day, a significant decline in the percentage of normal sperm was observed when a second ejaculate was collected consecutively. This decline was primarily attributed to an increase in cytoplasmic droplets and midpiece abnormalities. These findings suggest that rams subjected to regular semen collection in a controlled environment are likely to exhibit considerable variation in the percentage of normal sperm from ejaculate to ejaculate. For artificial breeding centres and veterinarians, repeated semen collection on the same day may reduce the proportion of normal sperm. As such, assessment of each separate ejaculate for sperm morphology is recommended before pooling for processing or insemination.
Prevalence and Morphological Appearance of Sperm Nuclear Defects Using Feulgen Reaction in Beef Bulls.
Fernandes CE, Zart AL, Martins JCA … +3 more , Oko R, Sutovsky P, Nogueira É
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40028816 · Publisher ↗
The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and compare the morphological aspects of sperm nuclei abnormalities in beef bulls submitted to breeding soundness evaluation (BSE). Semen samples were collected by...
The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and compare the morphological aspects of sperm nuclei abnormalities in beef bulls submitted to breeding soundness evaluation (BSE). Semen samples were collected by electroejaculation from 649 beef bulls (Bos indicus, n = 515 and Bos indicus × Bos taurus crossbreed, n = 134) ranging from 2 to 12 years of age. Following a clinical evaluation and semen assessment, a slide was prepared with fresh semen and stained by using the Feulgen-stain for the purpose of evaluating sperm and nuclear morphology. Abnormal sperm nuclei were classified into three categories: A, multiple vacuoles in a pouch-like formation; B, a single vacuole such as the nuclear crater/diadem defect; and C, abnormal chromatin condensation. In accordance with the BSE criteria, the animals were classified as either satisfactory or unsatisfactory potential breeders. The prevalence of nuclear defects was comparable between satisfactory bulls of both genotypes. Unsatisfactory Bos indicus bulls exhibited a higher frequency of A and B nuclear defect categories. A category presented an odds ratio of 7.14 (0.012) for unsatisfactory bulls. A low percentage of the C category (2.3%) was observed in both BSE classifications. Vacuoles or craters were predominantly observed in the post-acrosomal and mid-subacrosomal regions, with minimal occurrence in the apical ridge region. Our findings provide the baseline for nuclear defects in B. indicus and its crossbreeds. The Feulgen reaction thus enables a simple yet comprehensive analysis of nuclear sperm head defects during BSE. In addition, stain retention facilitates a practical evaluation and an accurate account of the nuclear lesion types.
Effect of Equine Chorionic Gonadotropin on Follicular and Luteal Vascularisation and Progesterone Production in Murrah Buffaloes Subjected to Ovulation Synchronisation.
de Ruediger FR, de Carvalho NAT, Codognoto VM … +6 more , Dantas A, Yamada PH, de Oliveira RA, Pinheiro JC, Almeida Filho RA, Oba E
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40028812 · Publisher ↗
This study evaluated the effect of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) on ovarian vascularisation and plasma progesterone (P4) levels in Murrah buffaloes during an ovulation synchronisation protocol. Twenty buffaloes wer...
This study evaluated the effect of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) on ovarian vascularisation and plasma progesterone (P4) levels in Murrah buffaloes during an ovulation synchronisation protocol. Twenty buffaloes were divided into two groups: with eCG (n = 20) and without eCG (control, n = 20) in a crossover design. A 1.0 g progesterone intravaginal device (DIB) was inserted and 2 mg oestradiol benzoate was administered intramuscularly on Day 0. On Day 9, DIB was removed, PGF2α was administered to all animals and eCG was given to half. GnRH was administered on Day 11. Daily Doppler ultrasounds assessed follicular and luteal development and vascularisation from D9 to D16 and on Days 20, 24, 28 and 32. Blood samples were collected before each ultrasound to analyse plasma P4. Ovulation occurred on Day 13.42 ± 1.17 in the eCG group (19/20) and 13.53 ± 0.19 (14/20) in the control (p = 0.34). The ovulation rate was higher in the eCG group (95%) than in the control (70%). eCG increased the vascularised follicle perimeter on Days 11 (p = 0.018) and 12 (p = 0.03) and enhanced corpus luteum (CL) diameter on Day 16 (p < 0.001). A larger vascularised area was observed on Days 14-16, 20 and 24 (p < 0.05). P4 concentrations were higher in the eCG group on Days 15, 16, 20 and 24 (p < 0.05). Significant correlations were found between CL size, vascularisation and P4 concentration (r = 0.75, p < 0.001). In conclusion, eCG improves ovarian vascularisation, ovulation rates and plasma P4 levels, supporting its use to enhance reproductive performance in buffalo herds.
Application of Staining Methods to Compare Chromatin Condensation in Fresh and Freeze-Thawed Dog Semen.
Laux EM, Farshad A, Wehrend A … +1 more , Hammadeh ME
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40022439 · Full text
Various staining techniques have been used for canine sperm analysis, but direct comparisons using identical semen samples are lacking. This study aimed to assess the efficiency, time requirements and cost-effectiveness...
Various staining techniques have been used for canine sperm analysis, but direct comparisons using identical semen samples are lacking. This study aimed to assess the efficiency, time requirements and cost-effectiveness of different staining techniques: aniline blue, toluidine blue, acridine orange (AcO), chromomycin A3 (CMA3) and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase d-UTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL). Forty semen samples (20 fresh and 20 frozen-thawed) were used to assess chromatin condensation. Significant differences (p < 0.01) were found using two-factor repeated measures variance analysis. Aniline blue staining differed significantly (p < 0.01) from toluidine blue, AcO and CMA3 staining. A significant difference (p < 0.05) was observed between AcO and TUNEL staining for fresh sperm, with no significant differences between TUNEL and other methods. Correlations in fresh sperm samples showed r = 0.567 between AcO and aniline blue, r = 0.645 between AcO and CMA3, and correlations of 0.455 and 0.557 for aniline blue - toluidine blue and aniline blue - TUNEL, respectively. For frozen samples, significant differences were found between aniline blue and toluidine blue and AcO tests (p < 0.05), and between CMA3 and TUNEL staining (p < 0.01). Correlations in frozen samples showed r = 0.582 between AcO and aniline blue, r = 0.752 between AcO and CMA3, r = 0.698 between toluidine blue and aniline blue, and r = 0.536 between CMA3 and aniline blue. A minimal association was found between standard semen analysis and chromatin analysis. In conclusion, toluidine blue is effective for light microscopy staining, while CMA3 is recommended for fluorescence microscopy due to its simplicity, rapidity and cost-effectiveness.
Investigation of the Effect of Asprosin Level on Fertility Success and Oxidative Stress in Simmental Cows.
Köse R, Akarsu SA, Kurt S … +5 more , Serin H, Aydın MA, Karahanlı A, Uçak G, Yörü A
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Feb · PMID 39998974 · Full text
Asprosin, a protein hormone that regulates hunger and glucose homeostasis, is produced by white adipose tissue. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of asprosin level on fertility and oxidative stress para...
Asprosin, a protein hormone that regulates hunger and glucose homeostasis, is produced by white adipose tissue. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of asprosin level on fertility and oxidative stress parameters in Simmental cows. In the study, 44 Simmental multiparous cows were used. PRID was used to synchronise the animals. Blood samples were obtained from the cattle on the day of artificial insemination, and the amount of asprosin was measured. Animals were divided into two groups: a low asprosin (LA) group and a high asprosin (HA) group. On day 25, blood samples were taken, and pregnancy-associated glycoprotein (PAG2), total antioxidant level (TAS) and total oxidant level (TOS) were measured using commercial kits. Ultrasonography was used to diagnose pregnancy on day 45. The TAS level at day 25 was higher in the HA group than the TAS level at the beginning of the study (p = 0.007). The TOS level at the beginning of the study was higher in the HA group than in the LA group (p = 0.017). The TOS level of cows in the LA group on day 25 was significantly higher than the TOS level at the beginning of the study (p = 0.028). In conclusion, asprosin levels in cows affected oxidative stress parameters. According to receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis, there was a strong correlation between TOS and asprosin, and it was concluded that cows with HA values may be exposed to oxidative stress.
Special Issue: Abstracts of the 58th Annual Conference of Physiology and Pathology of Reproduction and 50th Joint Conference of Veterinary and Human Reproductive Medicine, February 26th to 28th 2025, Leipzig.
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Feb · PMID 39992624 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Welcome Note to the Participants of the 58th Annual Conference of Physiology and Pathology of Reproduction and 50th Joint Conference of Veterinary and Human Reproductive Medicine (February 26-28, 2025, Leipzig).
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Feb · PMID 39992526 · Publisher ↗
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Standardisation of Dog Sperm Morphology Classification.
Brito LFC, da Silva MC, Kolster KA
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Feb · PMID 39989363 · Full text
Sperm morphology is an important component of dog fertility analysis. Visual examination is the gold standard technique for evaluation, but large variations within and across evaluators have been documented. Databases of...
Sperm morphology is an important component of dog fertility analysis. Visual examination is the gold standard technique for evaluation, but large variations within and across evaluators have been documented. Databases of sperm morphology images are valuable practical aids for training and performance testing and can improve sperm classification standardisation; however, such databases are only useful when the material is expertly classified to serve as a reference. The objective of this study was to build an expertly annotated database of sperm images and to generate an illustrated guide with examples of the different sperm morphology presentations to promote standardisation in dog sperm morphology classification. Semen samples (n = 42) were obtained either from dogs presented for fertility evaluation or from semen doses used for artificial insemination. For image acquisition, wet preparations were prepared and evaluated using phase-contrast optics under 1000× magnification. Selected images were cropped so that only one sperm was included in each file, and a database of 8817 images was created. The images were classified by three veterinarians, specialists in animal reproduction (Diplomates American College of Theriogenologists) according to different criteria. Agreement among evaluators was the criterion used to create a database with reconciled classification. Complete agreement on defect category and morphological classification was observed on 70.2% of the images, and at least two veterinarians agreed on the classification of another 27.4% of the images; therefore, the reconciled database classification was based on the consensus of at least two veterinarians on 97.5% of the images. The percentage of morphologically normal sperm in the reconciled database was 57%, with the primary defect involving the sperm head, midpiece, or tail in 18%, 20%, and 5% of the cases, respectively. Among defective sperm, 39% had a single defect and 4% had multiple defects. When the total prevalence of specific defects was computed, the reconciled database contained 18% sperm head abnormalities, 22% midpiece abnormalities, and 7% tail abnormalities. Comprehensive illustrations of the variation in normal and abnormal dog sperm morphology from the database built based on reconciled expert classification are provided for reference.
A Review and New Insights Into Spermatogenesis From Single-Cell RNA Sequencing.
Wang Z, Xiao N, Han Q … +3 more , Qi Y, Shi D, Luo C
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Feb · PMID 39985199 · Publisher ↗
As the most primitive germ cells in the testis, spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) not only constantly renew themselves to ensure their quantity, but also differentiate into mature sperm cells to complete spermatogenesis a...
As the most primitive germ cells in the testis, spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) not only constantly renew themselves to ensure their quantity, but also differentiate into mature sperm cells to complete spermatogenesis and transmit genetic information to the next generation. Successful spermatogenesis is inseparable from niche regulation, which provides factors that enhance the self-renewal of SSCs to maintain their numbers and directs the appropriate differentiation of spermatogonia. Some progress has been achieved in the definition and isolation of SSCs. However, a high degree of cellular heterogeneity is found in the testis, revealing a combination of various cell types at different developmental stages and a lack of specific molecular markers (especially in domestic animals) for fully screening and purifying SSCs. These factors have considerably hindered further research into the mechanisms of maintenance, self-renewal, and differentiation of SSCs, as well as limited their isolation, purification, and applications. Accumulated studies have recently successfully employed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) as a novel approach to detailing the classification of cell subsets, mining specifically expressed genes in different cell types, and accurate identification of specific cell types. This review summarises the progress of SSCs identification and offers new insights into the SSCs developmental trajectory from single-cell RNA sequencing.
Anti-Müllerian Hormone Concentrations Can Be Reliably Determined by a Single Measurement, Irrespective of Cycle, in Synchronised Ewes During Non-Breeding Season.
Cetin N, Koca D
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Feb · PMID 39980404 · Full text
Improvement of yield characteristics in animal breeding is important in terms of increasing animal production and sustainability. Fertility is one of the most important yield traits affecting economic gain in sheep breed...
Improvement of yield characteristics in animal breeding is important in terms of increasing animal production and sustainability. Fertility is one of the most important yield traits affecting economic gain in sheep breeding. Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) is widely recognised as a dependable biomarker for assessing ovarian reserves and fertility potential. The aim of this study was to evaluate the dynamics of AMH during different phases of the sexual cycle in Norduz ewes the non-breeding season. Additionally, the study sought to assess the effects of age and body condition score (BCS) on AMH concentrations during these phases. A total of 32 Norduz ewes with a body condition score (BCS) of 3-4.5 and aged between 2 and 4 years were used as animal material in the study. All experimental procedures were carried out outside the breeding season and when the ewes were lactating. In all ewes in anestrus, intravaginal sponges (Esponjavet, 60 mg MAP, Hipra, Turkey) were kept in the vagina for 7 days for estrus synchronisation. Intramuscular injections of PMSG (Oviser, 500 IU, Hipra, Turkey) and PGF2α analog (Gestavet, 50 μg, Hipra, Turkey) were administered 48 h prior to sponge removal. Twenty-four hours after sponge removal, ewes were exposed to the ram for estrus detection. Since 5 ewes did not show estrus, blood samples were collected regularly from animals (n = 27) in which estrus was detected at three different stages: one just before the insertion of vaginal sponges (anestrus), another when heat was detected exposing to the ram (estrus), and the final one 10 days after estrus (diestrus). The serum samples were assessed for the levels of AMH and progesterone through the electrochemiluminessence immunoassay technique (ECLIA). The results of the analyses showed that serum AMH concentration did not vary between anestrus, estrus and diestrus phases of the sexual cycle of Norduz ewes outside the breeding season (p > 0.05). Furthermore, age and BCS had no effect on progesterone and AMH levels in different phases of the sexual cycle (p > 0.05). In conclusion, this study shows that serum AMH levels are constant at any stage of the estrus cycle. This suggests that phenotypic evaluation of ewes can be performed with a single measurement and that AMH is a reproducible and dependable biomarker that can be measured at any stage of the estrus cycle at an arbitrary time point.
MitoQ Preserves Epigenetic Modifications and Quality Parameters of Rooster Sperm During Cryopreservation Process.
Alipour-Jenaghard P, Daghigh-Kia H, Masoudi R … +1 more , Hatefi A
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Feb · PMID 39963986 · Publisher ↗
Cryopreservation in rooster semen is a helpful procedure to spread qualified semen samples for reproductive goals. Nevertheless, some post-thawed qualified semen samples showed a considerably poor fertility rate that mig...
Cryopreservation in rooster semen is a helpful procedure to spread qualified semen samples for reproductive goals. Nevertheless, some post-thawed qualified semen samples showed a considerably poor fertility rate that might be related to epigenetic modifications during the cryopreservation process. This study aims to investigate the effect of the cryopreservation process in the presence of MitoQ as a mitochondrial-targeted antioxidant on epigenetic changes and other quality parameters (motility, morphology, mitochondrial activity, acrosome integrity, lipid peroxidation, DNA fragmentation, apoptosis status, and ROS concentration) of rooster sperm. The collected semen samples were divided into four groups of fresh samples and three groups that were supplemented by MitoQ 0, 10, and 100 nM and cryopreserved. The cryopreservation process reduced (p ≤ 0.05) DNA methylation, H3K9 acetylation, H3K4 methylation, motility parameters, membrane integrity, mitochondrial activity, acrosome integrity, viability, and increased (p ≤ 0.05) lipid peroxidation, DNA fragmentation, ROS concentration, and apoptotic-like changes compared to the fresh semen group. However, in frozen sperm groups, MitoQ 10 and 100 nM resulted in significant improvements (p ≤ 0.05) in the epigenetic modifications and other mentioned quality parameters compared to the control group (MitoQ 0). Generally, although the cryopreservation process reduced semen quality, using MitoQ could be useful in cryopreserved rooster semen quality.
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