Reproduction In Domestic Animals = Zuchthygiene[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Age-Related Changes in Accessory Sex Organs of Egyptian Jacksassess (Equus asinus): A Morphometric and Histological Study.
Abdoon ASS, Kishta AA, Abdel-Megeid NS … +5 more , Zeng S, Fathalla SI, Shawky SM, Canisso IF, Masoud SR
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 May · PMID 40415576 · Publisher ↗
The accessory sex organs play a crucial role in reproductive function, yet limited research exists on age-related changes in these structures in jacks. In the present work, the accessory sex organs of 60 Egyptian jacks w...
The accessory sex organs play a crucial role in reproductive function, yet limited research exists on age-related changes in these structures in jacks. In the present work, the accessory sex organs of 60 Egyptian jacks were classified according to their age into young (n = 15), adult (n = 25) and senile (n = 20). Jacks were euthanized and the accessory sex organs were immediately separated and collected. Morphometric measures of the penis, ampulla, seminal vesicles, prostate and bulbourethral gland, including length and weight, were determined. Tissue samples from the ampulla, seminal vesicles, prostate and bulbourethral glands were collected, processed and stained with H&E for histomorphometric examination. Our findings reveal significant age-related alterations in the penial weight and length, the structure and secretory activity of the accessory sex glands, shedding light on the physiological changes that occur with advancing age in this species. Insights gained from this analysis can improve reproductive management practices and contribute to the conservation of donkey populations.
Glycerol Supplementation During Oestrus Synchronisation With Fluorogestone Acetate Affects Follicular Proliferation, Maturation and Apoptosis of Granulosa Cells in Pelibuey Ewes.
Escorcia Ortiz P, Price CA, Guzmán Sánchez A … +1 more , Guerrero-Netro HM
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 May · PMID 40415575 · Full text
This study investigated the impact of glycerol supplementation on the expression of markers associated with follicular proliferation, maturation and apoptosis in Pelibuey ewes synchronised with long (11 days) and short (...
This study investigated the impact of glycerol supplementation on the expression of markers associated with follicular proliferation, maturation and apoptosis in Pelibuey ewes synchronised with long (11 days) and short (5 days) protocols using intravaginal fluorogestone acetate (FGA). Forty-five adult Pelibuey ewes were divided into five groups: control, short protocol with or without glycerol and long protocol with or without glycerol. Follicular dynamics were monitored by ultrasonography, and granulosa cells were collected 15 h after the onset of oestrus to analyse gene expression using RT-qPCR of genes associated with proliferation, maturation, and apoptosis. Results indicated that glycerol supplementation or the duration of the synchronisation protocol influenced the expression of genes related to apoptosis, proliferation and maturation. Specifically, glycerol-treated groups exhibited decreased BCL2 expression, and the ratio BCL2/BAX was lower in all treatment groups compared to the control, particularly in the short protocol plus glycerol. We conclude that the use of glycerol as an ultrashort supplementation during different synchronisation protocols leads to a delay in maturation and induces apoptotic-related pathways in granulosa cells to granulosa cell likely reducing the oocyte viability. Finally, glycerol treatment does not increase the abundance of PCNA associated with granulosa cell proliferation. However, it is observed that short-term treatments promote proliferation compared to the control group.
L-Citrulline Single Intravenous Administration Promotes Testicular Blood Flow, Plasma Testosterone, Estradiol, Circulating Citrulline and Serum Nitric Oxide Levels in Male Camels Under Heat Stress at the End of Non-Breeding Season.
Abdelnaby EA, Emam IA
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 May · PMID 40415556 · Publisher ↗
This study aimed for the first time to examine the effects of L-citrulline single administration on the camel testicular haemodynamics, morphometry, steroids (estradiol [E2] and testosterone [T]), nitric oxide (NO) and t...
This study aimed for the first time to examine the effects of L-citrulline single administration on the camel testicular haemodynamics, morphometry, steroids (estradiol [E2] and testosterone [T]), nitric oxide (NO) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) under environmental heat stress conditions. For this purpose, 10 adult Maghateer male camels were examined during September 2024 at the end of the non-breeding season. Animals were categorised into a control group (n = 5) and a treated group that received an intravenous dose of L-citrulline (n = 5;155 μmol/kg BW). Testicular length, volume, coloured area, testicular artery (TA) haemodynamics and hormonal profile were examined along the examination (-1, 0, 2, 4, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 h after injection). Results represented that no change occurred in testicular length, but the volume was elevated (p < 0.05) from 4 to 96 h after injection with no interaction between treatment and time, but both TA Doppler indices were declined (p < 0.05) at 4-48 h after injection compared to control. Circulating L-citrulline, NO and E2 levels increased 2 h post-injection until 48 h, then all were declined (p < 0.05) again with a lowering pattern of total antioxidant capacity (TAC; p < 0.05), but T took more time to elevate from 4 h until 72 h after injection. L-citrulline could be safe and act as a vasodilator with elevation of steroids (E2 and T), circulating L-citrulline and nitric oxide. This was accompanied by a declination of TAC as early as possible to 48 h. Further studies are needed to show its detailed action on semen quality to be linked with future fertility.
Importance and Control of Colostrum Intake in the Neonate Pig, a Review.
Langendijk P
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 May · PMID 40415538 · Full text
This review discusses the biological significance of colostrum intake for neonatal development in pigs, and discusses the variation in colostrum intake in relation to piglet and sow factors. Lack of or insufficient colos...
This review discusses the biological significance of colostrum intake for neonatal development in pigs, and discusses the variation in colostrum intake in relation to piglet and sow factors. Lack of or insufficient colostrum intake reduces the odds of survival and compromises immunity, development of the gastrointestinal tract and other organs in neonate piglets. Colostrum intake is linearly related to pre-weaning gain. It is estimated that 10%-30% of piglets consume insufficient colostrum (< 250 g). Colostrum intake is less in piglets from larger litters, in piglets born later in the birth order, in piglets with low birth weight, and in piglets mildly or severely affected by asphyxia. Colostrum yield by sows peaks between parity two and five and then declines again, and is probably related to mammary gland tissue mass and endocrine factors involved in colostrogenesis. Before farrowing, the decline in progesterone facilitates and the increase in prolactin initiates secretion of colostrum, and the changes in both these hormones are related to colostrum yield. Feeding level and fibre may accelerate the decline in progesterone and in that way increase colostrum yield. Earlier during the third trimester of pregnancy, proper management of energy intake and sow body condition is important to optimise mammary gland development. Specific amino acids may be involved in mammary gland development, potentially through IGF-1.
Efficacy of Short-Term Timed Artificial Insemination Protocols With Estradiol Esters and PGF2α in Girolando Cows.
Dos Santos Dutra Okada M, Silenciato LN, do Couto SRB … +2 more , Ferreira JE, de Mello MRB
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 May · PMID 40375601 · Full text
Using a synchronisation protocol based on estradiol esters and prostaglandin, established in cattle since the 1970s, we implemented 24 or 48-h intervals between hormone administration and timed artificial insemination (T...
Using a synchronisation protocol based on estradiol esters and prostaglandin, established in cattle since the 1970s, we implemented 24 or 48-h intervals between hormone administration and timed artificial insemination (TAI). This study compared two short-duration TAI protocols using estradiol benzoate (EB) and cypionate (EC) as ovulation inducers. A total of 172 Girolando female cows were selected after ovarian ultrasonographic evaluation and received 500 μg of prostaglandin F2α (PGF) at the start of the treatment (D0). The inclusion criterion for females in the study was the presence of a corpus luteum measuring ≥ 14 mm and at least one follicle with a diameter between 8 and 20 mm. The cows were randomly sorted into two treatment groups. The EB group received 2 mg of EB 24 h after PGF (D1), and TAI was performed 24 h later (D2). The EC group received 2 mg estradiol cypionate simultaneously with PGF, and TAI was performed 48 h later. Pregnancy was diagnosed 30 days after AI using transrectal ultrasonography. Experiment I evaluated follicular dynamics in 18 females (EB: n = 9; EC: n = 9) by analysing the follicular growth rate, pre-ovulatory follicle (POF) diameter, ovulation timing and ovulation rate. No statistically significant differences were observed (p > 0.05), with a 77.8% ovulation rate in both treatments. Experiment II compared the conception rates in 172 females (EB: n = 85; EC: n = 87). The overall conception rate was 30.2%, with no significant difference between the treatments (EB: 27.1%; EC: 33.3%). However, cows with a body condition score < 3.0 tended to have higher conception rates with EC than with EB (39.1% vs. 18.2%; p = 0.06). Cows with POF ≥ 10 mm at D0 had significantly higher conception rates with EC than with EB (48.3% vs. 29.0%; p = 0.03). Both protocols were equally effective; however, EC was more advantageous for cows with a POF ≥ 10 mm at treatment initiation.
Lectin-Histochemical Pattern on the Cystic and Neoplastic Ovaries of Bitches.
Terra JP, Almeida TB, Rezende LPO … +7 more , Barbeito CG, Acuña F, Blume GR, Eloi RSA, Oliveira LB, Santos ALRM, Sant'Ana FJF
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 May · PMID 40365948 · Full text
Studies have demonstrated that many reproductive disorders can compromise the binding pattern of glycosidic residues, mainly in cows and sows. In the current study, the binding pattern of lectins was characterised and co...
Studies have demonstrated that many reproductive disorders can compromise the binding pattern of glycosidic residues, mainly in cows and sows. In the current study, the binding pattern of lectins was characterised and compared in normal and pathological ovaries of bitches. Fourteen biotinylated lectins (BSA-1B, Con-A, DBA, LCA, PHA-E, PHA-L, PNA, RCA-1, SBA, SJA, STA, WGA, s-WGA, UEA-1) were used. In ovaries without lesions, the predominant staining for RCA-1 was observed in the zona pellucida (ZP) of initial follicles, in the oocytes of primordial and primary follicles, and in the artery wall. For WGA, the reaction predominated in the mesothelium, in the ZP of secondary follicles, in the corpus luteum (CL) and in the oocyte of secondary follicles. Reactivity for STA was more pronounced in the mesothelium and ZP of developing follicles. The mesothelial cells and the CL were mainly marked for LCA. PHA-L was stained in the mesothelium, CL, and connective stroma, while the lectin PHA-E showed reactivity especially in the stroma, mesothelium, and artery wall. In the cystic ovaries, changes in the reaction of some lectins were noted in various structures adjacent to the cysts. RCA-1 staining was reduced in the ZP and oocyte of primordial, primary, and secondary follicles, while there was an increase of staining in endothelial cells. With WGA lectin, there was a reduction in CL and an increase in endothelial cells. Reactivity to STA was reduced in the ZP of primary and secondary follicles and increased in endothelial cells. LCA was also reduced in the CL and ZP of primary and secondary follicles. For the PHA-L lectin, the staining was reduced in the mesothelial cells, CL, and ZP of the primary follicles, while for PHA-E the reduction occurred in the stroma, oocyte of the primary follicles, and in the GC of the secondary follicles. In all neoplasms analysed (dysgerminoma, granulosa cell tumour, adenocarcinoma), there was also a reduction in reactivity to various lectins, both in the neoplastic cells compared to the cells of origin and in the adjacent non-neoplastic ovarian tissue. The data from the current study suggest that the changes in ovarian glycosidic residues observed in cysts and neoplasms may contribute to infertility in bitches.
Influence of Three Combinations of Cryoprotectants and Two Warming Temperatures on Cellular Morphology, Morphometry and Mitochondrial Activity of Vitrified Canine Testicles.
de Souza Fernandes J, Noronha JA, Gomes FDR … +5 more , Brito BF, Guimarães GKS, Silva HVR, Bersano LMCP, da Silva LDM
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 May · PMID 40365720 · Full text
High concentrations of cryoprotectants required for testicular vitrification result in a toxic environment for cells. To mitigate this issue, a suitable alternative is to combine cryoprotectants. The temperature for warm...
High concentrations of cryoprotectants required for testicular vitrification result in a toxic environment for cells. To mitigate this issue, a suitable alternative is to combine cryoprotectants. The temperature for warming a vitrified sample is also important to assure cell viability. Thus, the aim of this work was to evaluate how combining cryoprotectants (ethylene glycol-EG, glycerol-GLY, and dimethyl sulfoxide-DMSO) in pairs and using two warming temperatures (37°C and 50°C) influence cellular morphology, tubular morphometry, and mitochondrial activity after testicular vitrification of dogs. Testicular fragments from ten adult dogs were distributed among the fresh control group (CTR) and the experimental groups according to the combination of cryoprotectants and temperatures (EG/GLY37, EG/GLY50, DMSO/GLY37, DMSO/GLY50, DMSO/EG37 and DMSO/EG50). The fragments were vitrified in a final concentration of 5.6 mol/L (2.8 mol/L of each of the cryoprotectants combined two by two) and subsequently warmed up to 37°C/30 s or 50°C/5 s. Following this, they were processed for histomorphological, morphometric, and mitochondrial activity evaluations with Rhodamine 123. In the morphometric evaluation, all vitrified groups showed a significant reduction in tubular diameter (p < 0.05). All experimental groups showed greater basement membrane separation when related to the CTR (p < 0.05). DMSO/EG37 showed the greatest basement membrane separation when compared to all other groups (p < 0.05). Regarding membrane retraction, all vitrified groups, regardless of the warming temperature, had greater retraction when related to CTR (p < 0.05), except DMSO/GLY50, which did not differ from any group (p > 0.05). Regarding the distinction between spermatogonia and Sertoli cells, no groups warmed up to 50°C differed from the control, except DMSO/GLY37. For nuclear visualisation, none of the vitrified groups differed from the CTR (p > 0.05), except DMSO/GLY37 (p < 0.05), which showed better nuclear visualisation. For the nuclear condensation parameter, there were no significant differences among the groups (p > 0.05). Mitochondrial activity was reduced in all vitrified samples, regardless of the combination of cryoprotectants and warming temperature (p > 0.05). It was concluded that the association of DMSO/GLY50 presented better preservation of morphological aspects.
Melatonin Improves the Development Ability of Sheep Embryos by Reducing ROS During IVEP.
Zhang H, Gahallah S, Liu Y … +4 more , Wang J, Zhang Z, Zhao X, Wan P
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 May · PMID 40346893 · Publisher ↗
Sheep in vitro embryo production (IVEP) is of great economic and scientific value, while reactive oxygen species (ROS) can negatively impact the quality and developmental potential of sheep embryos. Therefore, reducing R...
Sheep in vitro embryo production (IVEP) is of great economic and scientific value, while reactive oxygen species (ROS) can negatively impact the quality and developmental potential of sheep embryos. Therefore, reducing ROS may enhance the efficacy of sheep IVEP. In this study, different concentrations of melatonin (10, 10, 10, 10 M) were supplemented during oocyte in vitro maturation (IVM) and embryo in vitro culture (IVC). The developmental ability of sheep oocytes and embryos, the survival rate of vitrified blastocysts, ROS level, ATP content, ATP synthase activity and related gene expression levels of sheep blastocysts were detected. The results showed that 10 M melatonin significantly improved the developmental ability of sheep oocytes and embryos, elevated the survival rate of blastocysts after vitrification, reduced the ROS level, increased the ATP content and ATP synthase activity and improved the expression levels of quality-related genes in sheep blastocysts. We speculated that melatonin may enhance the developmental competence of sheep oocytes and embryos by reducing the ROS level and promoting ATP synthesis. In addition, high concentrations of melatonin may have an adverse impact on the development of sheep embryos.
Analysis of Oestrus and Hormonal Changes in the Progeny of 2 Genotypes of FecB Gene-Edited Sheep.
Chulei Y, Yiyuan Z, Hong T … +3 more , Yanhua G, Limin W, Ping Z
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 May · PMID 40342201 · Publisher ↗
The FecB gene, the first gene identified for multiple births, can improve reproductive performance in sheep. We used the CRISPR/Cas9 editing system to obtain the FecB gene in Kazakh sheep and mated with unedited Kazakh s...
The FecB gene, the first gene identified for multiple births, can improve reproductive performance in sheep. We used the CRISPR/Cas9 editing system to obtain the FecB gene in Kazakh sheep and mated with unedited Kazakh sheep. After the genotypic screening of the progeny, four B+ and ++ Kazakh ewes, each 2 weeks old and healthy, and close to the same body weight, were selected to study oestrus and hormonal changes in the progeny population of FecB gene-edited Kazakh sheep. Our results showed that the FecB gene was moderately polymorphic (0.25 < PIC < 0.5) in the progeny population, was able to be stably inherited, and showed increased lambing numbers. The number of follicles and tiny follicles differed significantly (p < 0.05) between the 2 genotypes of ewes in the progeny population. Physiologically, FecB gene-edited sheep did not differ from wild-type sheep. Throughout the oestrous cycle, FSH, LH, and E in serum hormones of both sheep genotypes showed variability (p < 0.05) between 72-360 h, 360-528 h, and 12-72 h, respectively, compared to other periods. The concentration of FSH and PROG in follicular fluid was much higher than that of LH and E (p < 0.05). Overall, it is possible to make Kazakh sheep carry the FecB gene by CRISPR/Cas9 editing and stably inherit it into the progeny population. The enhancement of reproductive hormones by the FecB gene is beneficial to follicular development and ovulation and improves the reproductive efficiency of sheep.
Correction to "Ram Semen Quality After Supplementation With Gelatin, Agar or Alginate Prior to Cooling Storage".
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 May · PMID 40317825 · Publisher ↗
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Thermal Signatures of Vulval Skin Surface: A Potential Non-Invasive Diagnostic Technology to Monitor the Calving Process in Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis).
Teja A, Sakthivel J, Rao KA … +10 more , Krishnaswamy N, Chintalapati GV, Veerappa VG, Kumaresan A, Ramesha KP, Sivaram M, Kataktalware MA, Das DN, Mula RK, Lavanya M
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 May · PMID 40304588 · Publisher ↗
For the first time, the possibility of using infrared thermography to capture the temperature of the vulval skin surface around the calving process in order to forecast when the buffaloes' calving process will begin has...
For the first time, the possibility of using infrared thermography to capture the temperature of the vulval skin surface around the calving process in order to forecast when the buffaloes' calving process will begin has been investigated. FLUKE infrared thermal camera was used to record the vulval skin surface temperature (VSST) and ocular temperature. Twenty-eight multiparous pregnant buffaloes had their thermograms taken at 6-h intervals between the 96th hour before the anticipated calving and the 24th hour after the calving. The eye and vulval skin surface showed a ΔT of 0.56°C and 0.45°C, respectively, indicating a considerable drop in temperature from 48 h before to calving. On the other hand, starting 6 h before calving, the vulval skin temperature showed an upward trend. There was minimal effect of circadian influence on the vulval skin surface temperature, as evidenced by the identical and significant declining pattern of the residual temperature of both the eye and VSST from 48 to 0 h of calving. Nonetheless, the reduction is ascribed to progesterone, which lowers vulval skin vascular perfusion and cutaneous circulation. Our study's findings suggested that, using related thermal signatures, vulval skin surface temperature variation in relation to calving as observed by digital infrared thermal imaging could be explored as a potential tool for predicting the onset of impending calving in buffaloes within -48 h.
Bovine Congenital Defects Recorded in a National Survey of Dairy and Beef Herds Over Ten Years (2014-2023).
Quigley K, Mee JF
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 May · PMID 40304553 · Full text
This study describes a novel model of farm-based congenital defect recording, with use of accessory data from a national breeding organisation. The study ran from 2014 to 2023 inclusive resulting in 522 reports of bovine...
This study describes a novel model of farm-based congenital defect recording, with use of accessory data from a national breeding organisation. The study ran from 2014 to 2023 inclusive resulting in 522 reports of bovine congenital defects with additional data available for a subset (369/522). The most commonly reported defect was intestinal atresia (24.3%), followed by multiple defects (19.9%), and tail abnormalities (13.4%). This is the first national survey of bovine congenital defects in Ireland. It shows that while farmer-reported cases generally lack a veterinary clinical or necropsy examination, farmers are in the unique position of being able to report phenotypic abnormalities first-hand, and provide an unbiased perspective of the true typology and epidemiology of congenital defects on farm.
Relationship of Breed and Seminal Quality With Protamination and DNA Integrity of Bovine Spermatozoa.
Restrepo JC, Giraldo A, Zapata K … +3 more , Rojas M, Restrepo G, Usuga A
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Apr · PMID 40277013 · Publisher ↗
During spermatogenesis, most histones are replaced by protamines in the process known as protamination. Protamine deficiency is one of the factors that contribute to DNA instability and damage, which can affect the ferti...
During spermatogenesis, most histones are replaced by protamines in the process known as protamination. Protamine deficiency is one of the factors that contribute to DNA instability and damage, which can affect the fertility of bulls. The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship of breed and seminal quality with the protamination and DNA integrity of bovine sperm. A total of 30 semen samples from five Guzerat bulls and five Blanco Orejinegro (BON) bulls were used. Motility and kinematics were evaluated with a CASA system, morphology by eosin-nigrosin staining and membrane integrity with the HOST test. DNA integrity, viability and protamination deficiency were assessed by flow cytometry (IP/CMA3). Linear models, correlation analysis and comparison of means by Tukey test were performed. The proportion of viable protaminated sperm (CMA3-negative) for BON and Guzerat was 78.9% ± 1.4% and 73.8% ± 3.1%, respectively (p < 0.05). DNA fragmentation was 0.60% ± 0.06% for BON and 0.34% ± 0.04% for Guzerat (p < 0.05) and was negatively correlated with protamination (-0.18, p < 0.01). Positive correlations of protaminated viable spermatozoa with total motility (0.68), progressive motility (0.66), membrane integrity (0.52), rapid sperm (0.71), average path velocity (0.44), linear (0.34) and curvilinear (0.54) velocities were found (p < 0.001). Protamination of bovine sperm correlates with semen quality and is influenced by bull breed.
Prediction of Gestational Age in Warmblood, Standardbred and Thoroughbred Horses Based on the Table Established in Light Breed Horses Using Foetal Ultrasonographic Measurements of Four Biometric Parameters.
Renaudin CD, Picandet V, Kass PH
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Apr · PMID 40275691 · Publisher ↗
Using the equation of Hartwig et al. and the table established for light breed horses, day of gestation was predicted in 108 Warmblood (WB) and 59 racehorses (Thoroughbred [TB] and Standardbred [STB]) pregnant mares. In...
Using the equation of Hartwig et al. and the table established for light breed horses, day of gestation was predicted in 108 Warmblood (WB) and 59 racehorses (Thoroughbred [TB] and Standardbred [STB]) pregnant mares. In WB, gestational ages were predicted within 2 weeks from 100 to 200 days of gestation using biparietal diameter (BPD), aortic diameter (AortD) or femur length (FL); within 2 weeks from 100 to 250 days using BPD or AortD; within 2 weeks from 100 to 300 days using BPD alone; and within 3 weeks from 100 to 350 days using eye approximated volume (EyV) alone. In the racehorse group, gestational ages were predicted within 2 weeks from 100 to 200 days of gestation using BPD or AortD; within 3 weeks from 100 to 250 days of gestation using BPD or FL; and within 3 weeks after 300 days of gestation using EyV. Across breeds including Quarter Horses (QH), WB, STB and TB, BPD was the best foetal age predictor from 100 to 200 days of gestation and from 200 to 300 days of gestation with accuracies within 2 and 3 weeks, respectively. After 300 days of gestation, EyV was found to be the best predictor with an accuracy of within 3 weeks. Overall, in the two groups, the breed of the foal nor the breed of the dam (except for short days increments), had any effect on foetal age prediction. Therefore, the table established for light breed horses can be used to assess the foetal age of foetuses carried by recipient mares whether they are WB or STB. Using the same anatomical landmarks but a different ultrasound machine, both ultrasonographers determined foetal age with similar accuracy.
Effects of Curcumin Oil Nano-Emulsion on Buffalo Sperm Cryopreservation: Insights on Sperm Quality, Kinematic Parameters, Sperm Ultrastructure, Oxidative Stress, Apoptosis, Microbiota, and Molecular Docking Analysis and Fertilising Capacity.
Khalil WA, Hassan MAE, Hegazy MM … +6 more , Fathy K, El-Harairy MA, Ismail AA, Alfattah MA, Sindi RA, Abdelnour SA
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Apr · PMID 40265647 · Publisher ↗
This study investigated the potential of incorporating curcumin oil nano-emulsion (CONE) into a Tris-based freezing extender to relieve cryodamage effects and enhance sperm cryo-resistance in buffalo bulls. Pooled semen...
This study investigated the potential of incorporating curcumin oil nano-emulsion (CONE) into a Tris-based freezing extender to relieve cryodamage effects and enhance sperm cryo-resistance in buffalo bulls. Pooled semen from five fertile buffalo bulls (n = 40 ejaculates) was divided and supplemented with 0.5% CONE (CONE0.5), 1% CONE (CONE1), or without CONE (CONE0, control), then extended and packaged. Post-thaw assessments included sperm kinematic parameters, oxidative stress markers, apoptosis levels, microbial load, ultrastructural integrity, molecular docking interactions, and conception rates. The CONE0.5 group exhibited significantly higher sperm viability, progressive motility, and membrane integrity, as well as significantly lower nitric oxide and MDA levels, compared to the CONE0 and CONE1 groups (p < 0.05), indicating reduced oxidative stress. Compared to the CONE0 group, the CONE0.5 group exhibited a significantly higher percentage of viable and early apoptotic sperm, and a significantly lower percentage of late apoptotic sperm (p < 0.05). Both CONE-treated groups demonstrated significantly lower post-thaw total bacterial, spore-forming bacterial, and coliform bacterial counts (p < 0.05). Conception rates were higher in the CONE0.5 group (80.0%) compared to the CONE0 group (68.0%) (p > 0.05). Molecular docking analysis revealed strong binding affinities between curcumin and caspase-3 (-7.87 kcal/mol), HSP70 (-8.52 kcal/mol), and PRDX-1 (-8.90 kcal/mol), suggesting potential mechanisms of action. In summary, the inclusion of 0.5% CONE as a cryoprotective additive in buffalo semen freezing media demonstrates a potential for improving post-thaw semen quality parameters, suggesting a possible enhancement of reproductive efficiency.
Evaluation of Different Cryoprotectant Combinations in Vitrification and Slow Freezing for Ovarian Tissue Preservation in Domestic Cats.
Ribeiro RB, Rodrigues AQ, de Aguiar BA … +11 more , Silva JKO, de A Carvalho da Costa MVR, Dos Santos Bezerra JL, Ferreira YB, da Silva IGM, Piau TB, Lucci CM, Báo SN, Goulart JT, Bellozi PMQ, Paulini F
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Apr · PMID 40265625 · Full text
Over the past decade, increased hunting and habitat disturbance have significantly impacted the endangered population within the Felidae family. Recognising this, it becomes imperative to implement strategies aimed at mi...
Over the past decade, increased hunting and habitat disturbance have significantly impacted the endangered population within the Felidae family. Recognising this, it becomes imperative to implement strategies aimed at mitigating this concerning conservation scenario. For this, female fertility preservation is crucial in this context, and studies concerning this field are still scarce. In the realm of cryopreservation, prevalent methods involve slow freezing (SF) and vitrification (V). This study aimed to evaluate various cryoprotective combinations for V or SF processes applied to domestic cat ovarian tissue. Twenty ovaries from 10 healthy cats were dissected, and cortical regions were sectioned into eight fragments measuring 3 mm each. These fragments were randomly allocated to three different treatment groups for V (V1, V2 and V3) or SF (SF1, SF2 and SF3). Each group employed solutions with varying concentrations of DMSO, EG and either trehalose or sucrose. The assessment included histological evaluation, follicle counting, immunohistochemical analysis of proliferative activity, and ultrastructural examination. The results demonstrated that the V1 protocol-composed of an equilibration solution with 10% DMSO, 10% EG and 0.1 M trehalose, followed by a V solution with 20% DMSO, 20% EG and 0.1 M trehalose-proved most effective. This combination best preserved follicular morphology, reduced degeneration, supported follicle proliferation and maintained favourable ultrastructural integrity compared to other treatments. These findings provide a valuable foundation for improving fertility preservation in domestic cats, with potential applications for endangered felid conservation programs.
Wine Grape Pomace as a Dietary Supplement to Improve Semen Quality in Boars.
Quintero-Moreno A, Martínez-López C, Luongo C … +7 more , García ML, Argente MJ, Romero G, Pérez-Patiño C, Díaz JR, García-Vázquez FA, Llamas-López PJ
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Apr · PMID 40192035 · Publisher ↗
Boar spermatozoa are highly susceptible to oxidative damage due to their high content of unsaturated fatty acids, which are prone to disruption by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Excessive ROS can induce lipid peroxidatio...
Boar spermatozoa are highly susceptible to oxidative damage due to their high content of unsaturated fatty acids, which are prone to disruption by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Excessive ROS can induce lipid peroxidation, DNA fragmentation and impaired enzyme activity, ultimately reducing sperm quality and reproductive performance. Wine grape pomace (WGP), a by-product of the winemaking process, is rich in polyphenols, including flavonoids (anthocyanins and quercetin), stilbenes (resveratrol) and tannins, which possess strong antioxidant properties. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with 4% WGP on boar ejaculate output and sperm quality during storage. Twenty boars were divided into two groups: a control group fed a standard diet and a WGP group supplemented with 4% WGP for 4 months. Semen samples were collected and analysed for ejaculate number of sperm per ml, total antioxidant capacity (in seminal plasma) and quality parameters (motility, kinematic parameters, mitochondrial activity, acrosome integrity, viability) after 1, 3 and 5 days of refrigerated storage. Results showed that WGP supplementation increased the number of sperm per ml compared to the control group (p < 0.05), resulting in approximately two additional seminal doses per ejaculate, without negatively affecting other seminal parameters (p > 0.05) and refrigeration storage (p > 0.05). This improvement in sperm concentration could enhance the profitability of swine semen production by increasing the number of doses produced per boar annually. Given the low cost of WGP (10.03 €/boar/year), this strategy could offer a cost-effective approach to improving reproductive performance in boars. These findings support further research into optimising WGP inclusion levels and exploring its broader impacts on boar fertility and reproductive efficiency.
HSP90 Is Required for Meiotic Resumption and Spindle Formation in Porcine Oocytes.
Sim JM, Song HJ, Lee SH … +6 more , Li XH, Zhan CL, Lu QY, Kim JD, Lee GH, Cui XS
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Apr · PMID 40186493 · Publisher ↗
Heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) is a highly conserved molecular chaperone that is expressed in response to stress conditions. HSP90 has been found to be involved in the activation of proteins related to cell division and f...
Heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) is a highly conserved molecular chaperone that is expressed in response to stress conditions. HSP90 has been found to be involved in the activation of proteins related to cell division and female reproduction. However, its specific role in porcine oocyte maturation, particularly in cytoskeletal formation, remains unclear. In this study, geldanamycin (GA) was used to inhibit HSP90 activity by binding to its adenosine triphosphate (ATP) binding site. Porcine oocytes surrounded by cumulus cells were cultured in TCM-199 medium for 44 h, with varying concentrations of GA (0.1, 0.5, 1 and 2 μM). It was observed that oocyte maturation significantly decreased when treated with a concentration of 0.5 μM or higher, leading to an increase in oocytes arrested at the germinal vesicle and metaphase I (MI) stage. The expression levels of Cyclin-dependent kinase 1, p-Aurora C (Thr198), p-AKT (Ser473) and p-PLK1 (Thr210) decreased during the MI stage, whereas Polo-like kinase 1 remained consistent with the control group. Additionally, abnormal spindle formation was increased, with abnormalities including aberrant poles, misaligned chromosomes and failure to reach the proximity of the cell membrane. Moreover, examination of mature oocytes at the metaphase II (MII) stage revealed that GA treatment induced a decrease in BCL-2 phosphorylation at the Ser70 site and an increase at the Thr56 site. This led to the release of Cytochrome c from the mitochondria and upregulation of Caspase 3 expression. In conclusion, HSP90 is essential for proper meiotic maturation in porcine oocytes by playing critical roles in meiotic resumption and spindle formation.
Serum Ionised Calcium and Ionised Magnesium in Dairy Cows and Their Associations With the Incidence and Severity of Postpartum Metritis.
Jose-Cunilleras E, Robles-Guirado JA, Ríos J … +3 more , Elcoso G, Bach A, Bassols A
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Apr · PMID 40171879 · Publisher ↗
Peripartum is a critical period for dairy cows during which they may undergo postpartum diseases such as hypocalcaemia and metritis. Determination of serum total calcium (tCa) is widely used to monitor imbalances in this...
Peripartum is a critical period for dairy cows during which they may undergo postpartum diseases such as hypocalcaemia and metritis. Determination of serum total calcium (tCa) is widely used to monitor imbalances in this period, but determination of total magnesium (tMg) and ionised forms of both cations (iCa and iMg) has been less studied. In the present work, 42 healthy cows and 53 cows diagnosed with mild or moderate metritis were included. Serum samples were collected 10 days prepartum and 1, 3 and 10 days postpartum to determine tCa, iCa, tMg and iMg concentrations, as well as their corresponding ratios. Our results show that hypocalcaemia and hypermagnesaemia occur on Day 1 postpartum in cows that stayed healthy and cows undergoing metritis. Cows with moderate metritis showed lower serum concentrations of iCa and iMg throughout the period. Low values of prepartum iCa and iMg at 10 days before calving were associated with later development of metritis and therefore could represent potential prognostic indicators. In conclusion, the determination of iCa, tMg and iMg in serum, in addition to tCa, could offer a more comprehensive view of the ionic status of the periparturient dairy cow and may provide information about the risk of suffering uterine diseases.
Histological Studies in the Endometrium of Fertile and Subfertile Bitches.
McRae GR, Coutinho da Silva MA, Runcan EE … +2 more , Stephens JA, Premanandan C
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Apr · PMID 40171871 · Full text
Endometrial biopsies have been used historically as a diagnostic tool as part of breeding management in some domestic species. In the mare, the findings in an endometrial biopsy can relate to the ability of that mare to...
Endometrial biopsies have been used historically as a diagnostic tool as part of breeding management in some domestic species. In the mare, the findings in an endometrial biopsy can relate to the ability of that mare to carry a pregnancy to term. The value of the endometrial biopsy in the canine has not been fully established. In this study, the presence of inflammation, fibrosis and endometrial cysts was characterised in full-thickness uterine biopsies from subfertile bitches in late diestrus/early anestrus and compared to the same findings in fertile bitches. The hypothesis was that subfertile bitches would have more inflammation, fibrosis and endometrial cysts. Full-thickness uterine biopsies were taken at the hysterotomy site at the time of C-section for control cases (n = 103), and previous submissions were collected from The Ohio State Reproductive Service as subfertile samples (n = 263). The cases were blinded, randomised and evaluated. Chi-squared or Fisher's exact tests were used to compare categorical variables between control and experimental samples. The Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used to compare ages between the groups. Overall, inflammation was observed more frequently in the subfertile group in comparison to the control group. Lymphoplasmacytic inflammation was observed more frequently in the subfertile group when compared to the fertile group. The incidence of periglandular fibrosis and endometrial cysts was not significantly different between the two groups. These results indicate that microscopic evaluation of canine uterine biopsies may be more suited to detecting inflammatory changes in the endometrium and isolated endometrial cysts, as well as isolated fibrotic lesions, which may be less impactful on fertility compared to chronic inflammation.
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