Reproduction In Domestic Animals = Zuchthygiene[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Fertility Traits in Japanese Black Cows in Farms Classified by Calving Intervals Using Epidemiological Methods.
Suzuki O, Uematsu M, Kitahara G … +2 more , Osawa T, Sasaki Y
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Apr · PMID 40171854 · Full text
The calving interval (CI) is an important determinant of reproductive performance in Japanese Black cattle. The present study aimed to compare individual fertility traits among farms classified by CI. In total, 49,780 ar...
The calving interval (CI) is an important determinant of reproductive performance in Japanese Black cattle. The present study aimed to compare individual fertility traits among farms classified by CI. In total, 49,780 artificial insemination (AI) records for 7327 cows from 2011 to 2014 were obtained from 622 farms located in Miyazaki, Japan. The farms were classified into three groups (referred to as farm CI groups) using the lower and upper 25 percentiles of farm CI as thresholds. The mean CI of individual cows was 403.5 ± 70.9 days. The interquartile ranges of CI for individual cows were 49 days for short CI farms and 114 days for long CI farms. The interval between calving and the first AI was associated with farm CI group and parity (p < 0.05) but not with calving season and gestation length. The conception rate (CR) at the first AI in cows on long CI farms decreased as the interval from calving to the first AI decreased (p < 0.05). Additionally, no differences in CR among farm CI groups were observed for AI number ≥ 4. In long CI farms, cows with two AI treatments had longer interservice intervals than those for AI values of 3 and ≥ 4 (p < 0.05). In summary, fertility characteristics for long CI farms differed from those of farms with short or middle CI, and standard operating procedures need to be improved to decrease the CI.
MicroRNA as Biomarkers for Physiological and Stress Processing in the Livestock.
Ali ME, Al-Saeed FA, Ahmed AE … +6 more , Gao M, Wang W, Lv H, Hua G, Yang L, Abdelrahman M
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Apr · PMID 40166888 · Publisher ↗
Several microRNAs (miRNAs) have been identified as potential biomarkers widely dispersed in animals since 1993, and they have become a significant molecular biology research area. Because of their ability to activate ext...
Several microRNAs (miRNAs) have been identified as potential biomarkers widely dispersed in animals since 1993, and they have become a significant molecular biology research area. Because of their ability to activate extracellular molecules, stabilise bodily tissues, control cell-to-cell signals, and be easily extracted, miRNAs are outstandingly nominated as biomarkers. However, there is growing interest in targeting miRNAs to monitor physiological reproductive performance, including reproductive system development, embryo development, fertilisation, endocrinology, and animal welfare in stressful conditions. Moreover, miRNAs play significant roles in gene expression regulation; single miRNAs may have overlapping roles, and on a broader scale, multiple mRNAs govern a single function. Also, miRNAs serve as an intermediary messenger between the environment and reproductive performance, making them a vital component of miRNAs as performance biomarkers under environmental conditions like heat stress. This makes describing a unique miRNA's consequences and functions exceptionally challenging, which may confound many researchers. Also, enhancing our comprehension of miRNAs in response to testicular heat stress could potentially aid in preventing and treating spermatogenesis disorders. Therefore, the present review highlights miRNA's regulatory mechanisms on reproductive performance under heat stress to employ these findings in improving reproduction physiology research.
Correction to "Ultrasonic Evaluation of the Corpus Luteum in Alpacas With Embryo Removal on Day 9 Post-Mating".
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Apr · PMID 40166885 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Chlorogenic Acid Increases Follicle Survival, Stromal Cell Density, Levels of Thiol and Glutathione Peroxidase Activity in Cultured Bovine Ovarian Tissues.
Barroso PAA, Azevedo VAN, Nascimento DR … +7 more , de Assis EIT, De Lima Neto MF, Ferreira AS, Martins SD, Silva AWB, Araújo VR, Silva JRV
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Apr · PMID 40159619 · Publisher ↗
This study aimed to investigate the radical scavenging activity and the effects of chlorogenic acid on follicular survival and development, stromal cell density and collagen fibres distribution in extracellular matrix, a...
This study aimed to investigate the radical scavenging activity and the effects of chlorogenic acid on follicular survival and development, stromal cell density and collagen fibres distribution in extracellular matrix, as well as on mRNA expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and periredoxin 6 (PRDX6), thiol levels, and activity of SOD, CAT, GPX enzymes in cultured bovine ovarian tissues. The free radical scavenging potential of chlorogenic acid was assessed through DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS (2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) assays. The ovarian fragments were cultured in α-MEM alone or supplemented with 25, 50, 100, and 200 μmol/L chlorogenic acid for 6 days at 38.5°C and 5% CO. Follicular growth and survival, stromal cell density, and collagen fibres were analysed by classical histology. Expression of mRNA for NRF2, SOD, CAT, GPX, and PRDX6 was evaluated by real-time PCR. Thiol levels and activity of SOD, CAT, GPX were investigated by Bradford method. The results showed that the presence of 100 μmol/L chlorogenic acid in culture medium promotes an increase in morphologically normal follicles and stromal cell density when compared to tissues cultured in control medium. Chlorogenic acid also increased thiol levels and GPX activity, but did not influence the distribution of collagen fibres or the expression of the analysed mRNAs. In conclusion,100 μmol/L chlorogenic acid increases the percentage of morphologically normal follicles, stromal cell density, thiol levels, and GPX activity in bovine ovarian tissues cultured in vitro.
Ovarian Dynamics and Pathological Conditions in Camelids.
Arroyo E, Laquiz-Silva N
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40145800 · Publisher ↗
Domestic camelids comprise Dromedary, Bactrian (old-world camelids, OWC), alpaca, and Lama (new-world camelids, NWC). They possess unique reproductive physiology distinct from other livestock. A key feature is being indu...
Domestic camelids comprise Dromedary, Bactrian (old-world camelids, OWC), alpaca, and Lama (new-world camelids, NWC). They possess unique reproductive physiology distinct from other livestock. A key feature is being induced ovulators, triggered by beta nerve growth factor (βNGF) present in the seminal plasma. Proper ovarian function is crucial for reproductive management and biotechnologies. In the absence of ovulation, camelids display overlapping follicular waves, with puberty and sexual receptivity influenced by factors like weight and age. Follicular growth patterns vary among these species and are better monitored via transrectal ultrasonography. Physiological variations in ovarian dynamics and hormonal activity differ among members of the Camelidae. Understanding these differences is essential for production and conservation efforts, particularly in wild species. Ovarian disorders, including failure to ovulate or respond to therapy, frequently cause subfertility or infertility in affected females. Superstimulatory and synchronisation protocols that rely on exogenous progestin, eCG, and FSH supplementation have been developed to address some causes of irregular ovarian dynamics. This paper reviews the current knowledge on follicular wave dynamics, their manipulation, and the common ovarian disorders affecting reproduction in camelids.
Detection and Localisation of Aquaporins 1, 7 and 11 in Fresh and Frozen-Thawed Canine Epididymal Spermatozoa.
Rojas Zamora CA, Paris IB, De La Sota RL … +1 more , Stornelli MA
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40116556 · Publisher ↗
Aquaporins are specific water channels that mediate the movement of water and cryoprotectants across the spermatozoa plasma membrane. The aim was to assess the presence and location of AQP1, AQP7 and AQP11 in fresh and f...
Aquaporins are specific water channels that mediate the movement of water and cryoprotectants across the spermatozoa plasma membrane. The aim was to assess the presence and location of AQP1, AQP7 and AQP11 in fresh and frozen-thawed canine epididymal sperm. Using immunocytochemistry, aquaporins 1, 7 and 11 were detected in fresh and frozen spermatozoa collected from the canine epididymis's head and tail. The aquaporin localisation changed between fresh and frozen spermatozoa and spermatozoa from the epididymis head and tail. Our results showed that AQP1, AQP7 and AQP11 have a specific sperm localisation that the AQP location in head and tail epididymal spermatozoa has a different pattern of immunolocalisation, and cryopreservation produces some changes in the AQP7 and AQP11 localisation. In this way, aquaporins could play an essential role in epidydimal spermatozoa's homeostasis and cryopreservation processes.
Phytoestrogens Modulate Bovine G Protein-Coupled Receptors and Play a Critical Role in Regulating Reproductive Functions in Animals.
Safdar M, Junejo Y, Tariq M … +4 more , Ayaz MM, Imran S, Wadood AA, Farah MA
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40116542 · Publisher ↗
Phytoestrogens are secondary plant metabolites that are structurally analogous to endogenous oestrogens and bind to Bovine G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) in animals. Their interaction with GPCRs activates intracellu...
Phytoestrogens are secondary plant metabolites that are structurally analogous to endogenous oestrogens and bind to Bovine G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) in animals. Their interaction with GPCRs activates intracellular signalling cascades, such as the cAMP/PKA pathway, which plays a crucial role in ovarian follicle development and luteinisation. These interactions may enhance reproductive performance by improving fertility, synchronising estrous cycles, and promoting ovulation. Phytoestrogens also influence the regularity and timing of the estrous cycle, offering potential applications in estrous synchronisation and reproductive management. In this study, molecular docking was conducted on 12,000 phytochemicals to identify potential GPCR ligands. From this extensive screening, five compounds with the highest binding affinities to GPCRs were selected. Notably, Genistein and Apigenin emerged as top candidates, with docking scores (-8.58 kcal/mol and -8.27 kcal/mol) and lower RMSD values (0.69 and 1.30) compared to synthetic GPCR agonists such as Estradiol (-6.07 kcal/mol and 1.02), respectively. Molecular dynamics simulations (MDS) confirmed the stability of these phytoestrogen -GPCR complexes, suggesting effective and sustained interactions. The screened phytoestrogens demonstrated favourable pharmacokinetic profiles, including non-toxicity, non-carcinogenicity, and high gastrointestinal absorption, positioning them as viable candidates for enhancing reproductive performance in dairy cattle through GPCR modulation. These findings suggest that phytoestrogens could be used as feed additives to improve reproductive outcomes, offering a novel approach to modulate GPCR pathways in dairy animals.
Sperm Motility Evaluation in Stallion Fresh, Cooled and Frozen Semen Using a Portable Computer-Assisted Sperm Analysis System.
Brito LFC
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40111150 · Full text
Semen analysis is an important laboratory diagnostic test for stallions. Evaluation of sperm motility is integral to basic semen analysis and results are important for breeding management and clinical practice. Computer-...
Semen analysis is an important laboratory diagnostic test for stallions. Evaluation of sperm motility is integral to basic semen analysis and results are important for breeding management and clinical practice. Computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) allows objective sperm motility evaluation and increases analytical precision. The objective of the present study was to validate a portable CASA system (AndroScope). Fresh/cooled semen samples (33 ejaculates, 18 stallions) and frozen semen (40 ejaculates and one epididymal flush, 27 stallions) were evaluated using the AndroScope and the IVOS II CASA system ('gold standard'). Positive associations (R = 0.31 to 0.83, p < 0.0001) between the systems were observed for all sperm motility estimates. The percentage of motile sperm was lower (p < 0.0001) with the AndroScope than with IVOS II (mean difference: -4.2%), but the percentage of progressively normal sperm did not differ between the two systems. Systemic differences were observed for sperm kinetic estimates. Sperm velocities, ALH, and BCF were lower (p < 0.0001) with the AndroScope, observations likely associated with the slower video acquisition frame rate used by this system when compared with the IVOS II (45 Hz vs. 60 Hz, respectively). In conclusion, the AndroScope produced precise results for all sperm motility parameters. The ability to identify and track sperm, and to analyse single sperm kinematics seemed similar to that of the 'gold standard' system used for validation. The AndroScope video acquisition frame rate must be taken into consideration when evaluating sperm kinetics and setting thresholds for classification of different motile sperm subpopulations.
Alterations in the Vaginal Vascular Perfusion, Chromoendoscopy and Oxidative Stress in Mares With Vaginitis and Endometritis.
Abdelnaby EA, ElKader NAA, Yehia SG … +5 more , Salem NY, Ramadan ES, Khattab MS, Farghali HA, Emam IA
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40110703 · Publisher ↗
This study aimed to demonstrate the vaginal tissue alterations via vaginal biopsy and hemodynamic alterations by introducing chromoendoscopy to analyse the effect of equine vaginitis on the oxidative and hormonal profile...
This study aimed to demonstrate the vaginal tissue alterations via vaginal biopsy and hemodynamic alterations by introducing chromoendoscopy to analyse the effect of equine vaginitis on the oxidative and hormonal profile. Mares were divided into normal mares (N = 10) and affected mares (N = 10). Animals were subjected to Doppler ultrasonographic evaluation, endoscopic examination, oxidative stress was estimated, and biopsy samples were taken for histopathology and immunohistochemistry. Uterine body (UB) thickness (mm), circumference (mm) and area (mm) elevated significantly in infected mares. Vaginal vascularization area elevated in the infected animals. The pattern was determined using pulsed wave Doppler. Both Doppler indices and systolic velocity declined significantly in both arteries (pudendal artery [vestibular B] and vaginal artery blood flow) in the infected group. Estradiol, insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) and nitric oxide metabolites (NOMs) were significantly affected by the infection in mares. A significant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) associated with a significant decrease in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was observed in the vaginal fluid of affected animals. Chromoendoscopic examination revealed hypervisible inflamed os-cervix and vaginal wall. After methylene blue (MB) addition, there was bluish discolouration of the os-cervix, faint and deep bluish discolouration of the vaginal mucosa. The vaginitis group had a corrugated deep bluish colour in the mucosa. The expression of NF-κβ P65 was not observed in control; however, it was expressed in the mononuclear cells infiltrating the submucosa of the vagina of the affected animal. In conclusion, Equine vaginitis is associated with decline in both Doppler indices with elevation of MDA and a declination of TAC, in addition to hyper-visible inflamed os-cervix and vaginal wall by endoscopy and expression of NF-κβ P65.
Assessment of the Diagnostic Accuracy of a Pregnancy-Associated Glycoproteins Test for Early Pregnancy Diagnosis in Dairy Heifers.
Akköse M, Kurban M, Gökçe MM … +1 more , Vural MR
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40099586 · Publisher ↗
This study aimed to assess the diagnostic accuracy of a PAG test (Idexx rapid visual pregnancy test, RVPT) for the diagnosis of early pregnancy in dairy heifers. The study material comprised 58 healthy dairy heifers, age...
This study aimed to assess the diagnostic accuracy of a PAG test (Idexx rapid visual pregnancy test, RVPT) for the diagnosis of early pregnancy in dairy heifers. The study material comprised 58 healthy dairy heifers, aged 13-15 months, with a body condition score ranging between 3.0 and 3.5, and raised under the same corporate management and feeding regimen on a dairy farm. The heifers exhibited spontaneous estrus and were inseminated upon detection of heat by visual observation. On days 24, 26, 28 and 32 following artificial insemination (AI), blood sampling was performed by coccygeal venipuncture. Immediately after the extraction of blood serum within approximately 2 h at room temperature, the RVPT was performed. On day 32 post-AI, pregnancy diagnosis was made by transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) as the gold standard. The sensitivity and specificity, positive and negative predictive values and diagnostic accuracy of the RVPT on days 24, 26 and 28 post-AI were 96.2%, 78.1%, 78.1%, 96.2% and 86.2%, respectively. On day 32 after AI, the same parameters were 96.2%, 96.9%, 96.2%, 96.9% and 96.6%, respectively. Based on the area under the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve (AUC), the RVPT provided high accuracy in distinguishing between pregnant and open heifers. In conclusion, open heifers can be safely detected using the RVPT as of day 24 post-AI, whereas heifers diagnosed as being pregnant with the RVPT should be confirmed later.
Transcriptomic Study of Testicular Hypoxia Adaptation in Tibetan Sheep.
Yu B, Yang Y, Li Y … +3 more , Gao R, Ma M, Wang X
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40099575 · Publisher ↗
The Tibetan sheep is a typical hypoxia-tolerant mammal, which lives on the plateau, at an altitude of between 2500 and 5000 m above sea level; the study of its hypoxic adaptation mechanism provides a reference for explor...
The Tibetan sheep is a typical hypoxia-tolerant mammal, which lives on the plateau, at an altitude of between 2500 and 5000 m above sea level; the study of its hypoxic adaptation mechanism provides a reference for exploring the hypoxic adaptation mechanism of other animals. To grope for the genetic mechanism of adaptation to the hypoxic environment at the transcriptional level in Tibetan sheep testicular tissue, and to identify candidate genes and key pathways related to sheep adaptation, histological observation of testicular tissues from two sheep breeds was carried out using haematoxylin-eosin (HE) conventional staining. A total of 103 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were authenticated in high altitude Tibetan sheep (ZYH) and low altitude Tibetan sheep (ZYM) by RNA sequencing technology (RNA-Seq), which included 50 up-regulated genes and 53 down-regulated genes. Functional analyses revealed several terms and pathways that were closely related to testis adaptation to the plateau. Several genes (including GGT5, AGTR2, EDN1, LPAR3, CYP2C19, IGFBP3, APOC3 and PKC1) were remarkably enriched in several pathways and terms, which may impact the Plateau adaptability of sheep by adjusting its reproductive activity and sexual maturation, and protecting Sertoli cells, various spermatocytes, and spermatogenesis processes. The results make a reasonable case for a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of adaptation to altitude in sheep.
Identifying Key Genetic Factors Influencing Reproductive Performance in Dairy and Meat Sheep Breeds of the Mediterranean Region.
Mura MC, Cosso G, Ouadday M … +5 more , Hosri C, Starič J, Nehme M, Carcangiu V, Luridiana S
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40095270 · Full text
This study aimed to detect genetic variations in key genes (BMPR1B, BMP15 and GDF9) that influence crucial reproductive traits, such as lambing rate and litter size in sheep. Understanding the genetic basis of these trai...
This study aimed to detect genetic variations in key genes (BMPR1B, BMP15 and GDF9) that influence crucial reproductive traits, such as lambing rate and litter size in sheep. Understanding the genetic basis of these traits is essential for developing more efficient breeding strategies and selecting superior breeding stock, ultimately contributing to improved reproductive efficiency across different sheep breeds, production purposes and farming systems. We examined polymorphisms in the above genes across 500 adult ewes from three Mediterranean countries. The studied breeds included high-yielding dairy (Sarda), dual-purpose with a meat focus (Awassi) and medium-to-low dairy and meat breeds (Slovenian Bovška, Istrian Pramenka and Jezersko-Solčavska). Genetic variations were analysed and correlated with reproductive efficiency, including the interval in days from ram introduction to lambing based on lambing dates. This was used to assess the potential influence of these genes on follicular maturation and oocyte developmental competence. The analysis identified 15 polymorphisms distributed differently among the breeds, with the Sarda exhibiting 11 SNPs and the Awassi 13. The Slovenian breeds showed distinct genetic variation patterns potentially linked to their production goals. However, no significant association was observed between the identified polymorphisms and the analysed reproductive traits. Further studies on other genes regulating bone morphogenetic protein expression, such as the Gremlin 1 (GREM1) gene, may provide additional insights into the genetic mechanisms underlying reproductive traits.
PCR-Based Amplification of Amelogenin Gene for Ovine Sex Determination Using Primers of Different GC Percentage.
Karimpat A, Mishra A, Roy SC … +1 more , Reddy IJ
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40087996 · Publisher ↗
The identification of species and their sex from small biological samples is of scientific interest in forensic science. Various identification techniques have been developed; however, DNA-based PCR is the most specific...
The identification of species and their sex from small biological samples is of scientific interest in forensic science. Various identification techniques have been developed; however, DNA-based PCR is the most specific and sensitive technique compared to protein-based methods. Although PCR amplification of the amelogenin (AMEL) has been used in different species for sex determination, the reliability of the AMEL test may sometimes be challenged due to amplification failure of AMEL Y in males, resulting in incorrect gender identification. Therefore, this study aimed to establish a simple, reliable and accurate PCR protocol for the amplification of the AMEL gene from blood gDNA isolated by a single-step DNA isolation method using primers of different GC% to ascertain the sex of ovine. This methodology may also be applicable to various biological samples for sex determination. It was concluded that the touchdown PCR was more suitable for GC-rich primers and low GC% primers were suitable with modified conventional PCR for gender identification. The use of PCR enhancers at denaturation temperatures of 94°C and 95°C was found ineffective for the amplification of AMEL to determine the sex. In summary, all primers used showed successful amplification.
Nongenomic Progesterone Receptors Mediated Bull Sperm Capacitation and Acrosome Reaction Are cAMP-PKA-Calcium Channel Dependent.
Sachan V, Saxena A, Kumar A … +3 more , Sharma P, Agrawal JK, Swain DK
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40079353 · Publisher ↗
Progesterone (P4) secreted from the cumulus cells mediates nongenomic signalling in sperm cells and induces capacitation and acrosome reaction in the oviduct. The induction of these events in bull spermatozoa is not full...
Progesterone (P4) secreted from the cumulus cells mediates nongenomic signalling in sperm cells and induces capacitation and acrosome reaction in the oviduct. The induction of these events in bull spermatozoa is not fully understood. Recently, we reported the presence of membrane nongenomic P4 receptors in bull spermatozoa and the involvement of P4-nongenomic signalling through the involvement of complex signalling pathways with cannabinoid receptors in the regulation of bull sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction. Here in this study, using pharmacological agents, we report the involvement of cyclic adenosine 3'5' monophosphate-protein kinase A (cAMP-PKA) and calcium channels (sperm cation channel CatSper-and L-type) in the regulation of P4-dependent nongenomic induction of bull sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction. A total of 24 semen ejaculates were used in the study, and 1 picomolar (pM) and 1 micromolar (μM) P4 concentrations were used for capacitation and acrosome reaction induction, respectively in bull spermatozoa. Further, the P4-receptor blocker mifepristone (20 μM) and several other selective blockers KH7 (cAMP, 3 μM), P9115 (PKA, 10 μM), Nifedipine (L-type, 3 μM) and NNC 55-0396 (CatSper, 3 μM) were used for the exploration of downstream P4-signalling in the regulation of bull sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction. The sperm cells showed 50%-70% inhibition and reduction of P4-response in inducing capacitation and acrosome reaction after selective inhibition of these molecules during the study. Our results from the in vitro experiments in bull sperm cells suggested the involvement of cAMP-PKA, CatSper and L-type calcium channels during P4-induced bull sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction. These results also provided new insights into P4-nongenomic signalling in bull spermatozoa in the regulation of capacitation and acrosome reaction, further strengthening our understanding of these complex events in the oviduct.
Ultrasonic Evaluation of the Corpus Luteum in Alpacas With Embryo Removal on Day 9 Post-Mating.
Yáñez A, Arrayás AI, Perez-Guerra UH … +3 more , López AM, Torres EY, Palomino JM
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40066920 · Publisher ↗
The objective of the present study was to determine the diameter, area, circumference, and blood flow of the corpus luteum (CL) using transrectal ultrasonography in female alpacas with and without the presence of an embr...
The objective of the present study was to determine the diameter, area, circumference, and blood flow of the corpus luteum (CL) using transrectal ultrasonography in female alpacas with and without the presence of an embryo on Day 9 post-mating, the time of maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP). For this purpose, 12 female alpacas with follicles ≥ 7 mm were mated with fertile males and treated with 0.0084 mg of buserelin acetate (Day 0). After that, the females were randomly classified into 2 groups (6 animals/group): (1) CL with embryo and (2) CL without embryo (embryo removed from the uterine horn on Day 9). In both groups, transrectal ultrasonography was performed on Day 2 to determine ovulation, and on Days 5, 7, 9, 11, and 13 to evaluate the CL. The data were analysed using repeated measures ANOVA. The diameter (mm), total area (mm), circumference (mm), and blood flow (%) of the CL were significantly decreased in the CL without embryo group on Days 11 and 13 (6.9 ± 0.6 and 2.9 ± 1.1, 48.3 ± 5.6 and 12.3 ± 4.7, 22.4 ± 1.9 and 7.4 ± 2.5 and 39% and 55%, respectively) compared to the CL with embryo group (12.1 ± 0.9 and 12.1 ± 0.6, 111.1 ± 17.1 and 107.5 ± 8.8, 37.2 ± 2.8 and 37.0 ± 1.7, and 3% and 3%, respectively). In conclusion, the CL characteristics in alpacas with embryo removal changed drastically after Day 9, presenting progressive regression in size and blood flow from Day 11 to 13. These results might indicate that the presence of an embryo on Day 9 is necessary to trigger the signal that prevents luteolysis in this species.
Progesterone and Oestradiol-17β Levels and Their Associations With Male Acceptance and Pregnancy in Female Alpacas (Vicugna pacos).
Egi T, Hanada M, Iiduka A … +4 more , Tokura Y, Kawabata RH, Flores AB, Acosta TJ
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40066913 · Publisher ↗
Alpacas are important livestock animals in the Andean highlands of South America. However, their reproductive efficiency is low under natural conditions. In this study, we analysed the oestradiol-17β (E2) and progesteron...
Alpacas are important livestock animals in the Andean highlands of South America. However, their reproductive efficiency is low under natural conditions. In this study, we analysed the oestradiol-17β (E2) and progesterone (P4) levels in the serum and faecal samples of female alpacas before exposure to males for mating to determine whether E2 and P4 affect male acceptance and pregnancy in alpacas. In Experiment 1, faecal samples were collected from nine female alpacas prior to exposure to males for mating to evaluate the effects of premating faecal hormone levels on mating behaviour. In Experiment 2, four of nine female alpacas, which had not previously accepted mating, were injected intramuscularly with oestradiol benzoate (EB). Mating receptivity after EB administration, serum E2 levels before and after EB administration and pregnancy were then evaluated. In both experiments, P4 and E2 were measured in serum and faecal samples using ELISA kits after extraction with diethyl ether and methanol respectively. In Experiment 1, of 23 contacts with males in the mating test, females accepted males 12 times and rejected them 11 times. The proportion of females rejecting males increased as the premating faecal P4 level increased (p = 0.021) and the proportion of females accepting males increased as the faecal E2 level increased (p = 0.035). In Experiment 2, serum E2 levels were higher 2 h after injection than before EB injection (p < 0.05). Alpacas that refused to mate before injection accepted mating 2 h after EB treatment. All alpacas with faecal E2 levels more than 0.5 ng/mg of dry matter before mating had higher P4 levels a month after mating than those with low E2 levels (p < 0.05) and were pregnant. In conclusion, this study showed that measurement of faecal E2 levels can help in determining the appropriate breeding time and that EB treatment improves reproductive performance in alpacas.
Seasonal Variation in Antioxidant Defence Biomarkers and ROMO1 Gene Expression in Relation to Semen Quality of Goat Bucks.
Khan A, Mandal S, Gattani A … +8 more , Kumar A, Nath S, Jain AK, Jesse DD, Mishra A, Patel P, Dhurvey M, Singh P
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40062425 · Publisher ↗
The oxidative status of seminal fluid is a critical factor in producing high-quality sperm doses for artificial insemination. This study aimed to investigate the impact of seasonal variations on oxidative stress biomarke...
The oxidative status of seminal fluid is a critical factor in producing high-quality sperm doses for artificial insemination. This study aimed to investigate the impact of seasonal variations on oxidative stress biomarkers and ROMO1 (Reactive Oxygen Modulator 1) gene expression in Barbari and Sirohi bucks. Four ejaculates of adult breeding Barbari and Sirohi bucks, six from each breed, were collected fortnightly using an artificial vagina during the summer and winter seasons for the study. The redox status of fresh semen samples during the summer and winter seasons was assessed to ascertain oxidative stress in different seasons by evaluating the levels of SOD, CAT, GSH, MDA, and TAC. Spermatozoa were separated from the semen by centrifugation, and ROMO1 gene expression was analysed in both seasons, with GAPDH serving as the housekeeping gene. The results revealed significantly (p < 0.05) higher levels of SOD and MDA in summer compared to the winter season, whereas the catalase activity, reduced glutathione, and mean total antioxidant capacity (TAC) concentration were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in winter than summer in both breeds. While no significant difference was observed for SOD, CAT, GSH, MDA, and TAC between the two breeds. ROMO1, a key protein regulating reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in mitochondria, especially in metabolically active cells like sperm, showed significantly (p < 0.05) lower expression in winter compared to the summer season. This suggests that the elevated ROMO1 gene expression during summer might influence the antioxidant defence mechanisms in seminal plasma. This study shows that the elevation of ROMO1 gene expression during the summer season influences the antioxidant defence mechanism in the seminal plasma. In conclusion, the findings highlight the importance of considering seasonal factors in managing reproductive health and optimising sperm quality for artificial insemination in goats.
Transvaginal Follicle Aspiration in Mares: A Description of Different Techniques and Comparison of Results Across Different OPU Clinics.
Cuervo-Arango J, Necchi D, Clutton-Brock A … +3 more , Profaska M, Crabtree J, Claes A
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40056006 · Publisher ↗
This retrospective clinical study describes different techniques for transvaginal follicle aspiration in mares and compares results from 5 different commercial ovum pick-up (OPU) clinics in which the same operator aspira...
This retrospective clinical study describes different techniques for transvaginal follicle aspiration in mares and compares results from 5 different commercial ovum pick-up (OPU) clinics in which the same operator aspirated mares using different systems and equipment: Clinic 1 (n = 42 mares, two-operator OPU technique, double-lumen-echogenic-tip needle, and manual syringe-assisted flushing of follicles), Clinic 2 (n = 28 mares, single-operator-OPU-technique, double-lumen-echogenic-tip needle, infusion pump controlled by foot-pedal for follicle flushing), Clinic 3 (n = 18 mares, single-operator-OPU-technique, double-lumen-echogenic-tip needle, and manual syringe-assisted flushing of follicles), Clinic 4 (n = 24 mares, single-operator-OPU-technique, double-lumen-non-echogenic-tip needle, and manual syringe-assisted flushing of follicles), and Clinic 5 (n = 9 mares, aspirated as in Clinic 1). The ease of performing OPU (visibility of needle tip and difficulty to hold ovary, probe, and needle) and the mean number of recovered oocytes were compared between clinics. The mean number of recovered oocytes per mare and oocytes per follicle for clinics 1-5 were 11.9 ± 4.6 and 64%, 13.5 ± 6.5 and 53%, 12.3 ± 4.2 and 54%, 9.5 ± 3.3 and 51%, and 19.9 ± 8.2 and 64%, respectively. The combined recovered oocyte per aspirated follicle was 10% higher in clinics with a 2-operator technique (clinic 1 and 5, 63.63%) than in clinics with the single-operator technique (clinics 2-4, 53.32%). The mean number of recovered oocytes was numerically greater in the clinics using the echogenic needle tip (11.9, 13.5, 12.3, and 19.9 oocytes per mare, for clinics 1, 2, 3, and 5, respectively) than in the clinic using the non-echogenic needle tip; (9.5 oocytes per mare for clinic 4). The use of a plastic syringe or an infusion pump to flush follicles did not appear to affect the number of recovered oocytes or oocyte recovery rate (clinic 2 vs. 3). The left arm of the single operator (holding OPU probe and needle) experienced fatigue more frequently when mares were aspirated singly, than when the needle was managed by a second operator. In conclusion, the oocyte per follicle recovery was 10% lower in clinics using a single-operator-OPU-technique compared with clinics using a two-operator-technique.
New Insights in Bovine Follicular Cysts.
Carbonari A, Martino NA, Burgio M … +4 more , Cicirelli V, Frattina L, Dell'Aquila ME, Rizzo A
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40056005 · Full text
The aim of the present study was to understand the involved factors in follicular cysts in dairy cows. The study consisted of an in vivo and in vitro approach. The in vivo part, hormonal evaluation (Kisspeptin-10 [Kp-10]...
The aim of the present study was to understand the involved factors in follicular cysts in dairy cows. The study consisted of an in vivo and in vitro approach. The in vivo part, hormonal evaluation (Kisspeptin-10 [Kp-10], Gonadotropin inhibiting hormone [GnIH], Luteinizing hormone [LH], Oestrogens [E] and cortisol) was performed in sera of both healthy (H) and cows with follicular cysts (FC). The in vitro part was concentrated on estimating the distribution of GPR54 (Kp-10 receptor) and GPR147 (GnIH receptor) on cystic and preovulatory follicles. Serum concentrations of Kp-10, GnIH, LH, E and cortisol were significantly higher in Group FC compared with Group H. Gene expression analysis showed a reduction in GPR54 mRNA levels in FC compared to preovulatory follicles, while no expression of the GPR147 receptor was detected. The lower presence of GPR54 in FC compared to the preovulatory follicle can be determined by a down-receptor regulation induced by elevated serum concentrations of Kp-10 in cows with ovarian FC. Endocrine imbalances of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, characterising FC, may reflect altered patterns of Kp-10 and GnIH secretion.
Beneficial Effects of N-Acetyl Cysteine in the Different Equilibration Times on Post-Thawed Rooster Sperm Quality.
Zanganeh Z, Hezavehei M, Halvaei I … +1 more , Sharafi M
Reprod Domest Anim · 2025 Mar · PMID 40056000 · Publisher ↗
Cryopreservation is the best method for preserving rooster sperm, especially in declining indigenous breeds. Cryopreserved semen is significantly compromised due to equilibration time, cold shock and oxidative stress enc...
Cryopreservation is the best method for preserving rooster sperm, especially in declining indigenous breeds. Cryopreserved semen is significantly compromised due to equilibration time, cold shock and oxidative stress encountered during the freezing-thawing process. To improve the quality and fertility of thawed semen, it is essential to protect sperm cells from peroxidative damage. This study assessed the effects of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), an antioxidant supplement, on the functional parameters of thawed rooster sperm after pre-freezing equilibration periods of 2 and 4 h. Samples were collected from 10 male Ross 308 broiler breeders and diluted with Beltsville extenders containing different concentrations of NAC (0, 0.1, 1 and 10 mM/mL) during equilibrium periods of 2 and 4 h before freezing. Our findings showed that NAC-0.1 and NAC-1 groups in 2 h increased significantly total and progressive motility (59.85 ± 3.73, 59.67 ± 3.73, 42.85 ± 2.64 and 42.80 ± 2.64, respectively), viability, and plasma membrane functionality (62.45 ± 3.51, 62.36 ± 3.51, 56.81 ± 3.51 and 56.82 ± 3.56, respectively) compared to the control groups. Furthermore, NAC-0.1-2 h and NAC-1-2 h demonstrated the lowest levels of apoptosis and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), as well as the highest mitochondrial membrane potential in comparison to the control groups. These findings indicate that NAC-0.1 and NAC-1 are effective in maintaining the quality of thawed rooster sperm during a 2-h equilibration period.
About
- Frequency
- Sun
- Papers found
- 200
- RSS feed
- Subscribe