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Gurule SC, Sustaita-Monroe JF, King LN, Landers RS, Garza V, West SM, Bynum SE, Perry L, Padmanabhan V, Cardoso RC. Reproductive neuroendocrine defects programmed by prenatal testosterone treatment between gestational days 60-90 are amplified by postnatal obesity in sheep. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1436954. [PMID: 39156826 PMCID: PMC11327049 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1436954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the leading cause of anovulatory infertility in women of reproductive age, and obesity can increase the severity and development of the PCOS phenotype. Prenatal testosterone (T) treatment between gestational days 30-90 advanced puberty and disrupted the reproductive and metabolic phenotype in female sheep, recapitulating attributes of women with PCOS, with postnatal obesity amplifying its severity. On the other hand, prenatal T treatment from gestational days 60-90 led to a much milder phenotype. We hypothesized that reproductive neuroendocrine defects programmed by prenatal T treatment between gestational days 60-90 are amplified by postnatal obesity in sheep. Suffolk ewes received T propionate (T; 100 mg) or corn oil (C; vehicle) twice weekly from gestational days 60-90. At 5 months of age, T lambs were assigned to either a maintenance (100% of NRC requirements) or overfed (130% NRC) diet and C lambs were fed the maintenance diet. We compared the timing of puberty (n = 15/group) determined by twice weekly measurement of progesterone concentrations, estradiol positive feedback responsiveness (n = 8/group) determined by assessing LH secretion in response to exogenous estradiol, periovulatory LH dynamics during the second breeding season (n = 8/group) following synchronization with two injections of PGF2α, and progesterone negative feedback (n = 8/group) determined by characterizing LH pulses during the mid-luteal phase between C, T-maintenance and T-overfed groups. Our findings indicate that postnatal obesity: 1) exacerbated reproductive defects and further deteriorated reproductive cyclicity during the second breeding season (adulthood); 2) did not amplify the impairment in estradiol positive feedback in delaying the timing and amplitude of the LH surge, although it reduced the total amount of LH secreted during the preovulatory LH surge; 3) amplified the reduced responsiveness to progesterone negative feedback manifested as an increase in LH pulse amplitude and peak. These observations, in addition to supporting our previous findings that prenatal T treatment results in reproductive neuroendocrine dysfunction and periovulatory disruptions, provide evidence that these neuroendocrine defects programmed between gestational days 60-90 are amplified by postnatal obesity in female sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. C. Gurule
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - J. F. Sustaita-Monroe
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - L. N. King
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - R. S. Landers
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - V. Garza
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - S. M. West
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - S. E. Bynum
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - L. Perry
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - V. Padmanabhan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - R. C. Cardoso
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
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Gurule S, Sustaita-Monroe J, Padmanabhan V, Cardoso R. Developmental programming of the neuroendocrine axis by steroid hormones: Insights from the sheep model of PCOS. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1096187. [PMID: 36755919 PMCID: PMC9899912 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1096187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The reproductive neuroendocrine system is a key target for the developmental programming effects of steroid hormones during early life. While gonadal steroids play an important role in controlling the physiological development of the neuroendocrine axis, human fetuses are susceptible to adverse programming due to exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals with steroidal activity, inadvertent use of contraceptive pills during pregnancy, as well as from disease states that result in abnormal steroid production. Animal models provide an unparalleled resource to understand the effects of steroid hormones on the development of the neuroendocrine axis and their role on the developmental origins of health and disease. In female sheep, exposure to testosterone (T) excess during fetal development results in an array of reproductive disorders that recapitulate those seen in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), including disrupted neuroendocrine feedback mechanisms, increased pituitary responsiveness to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), luteinizing hormone (LH) hypersecretion, functional hyperandrogenism, multifollicular ovarian morphology, and premature reproductive failure. Similar to a large proportion of women with PCOS, these prenatally T-treated sheep also manifest insulin resistance and cardiovascular alterations, including hypertension. This review article focuses on the effects of prenatal androgens on the developmental programming of hypothalamic and pituitary alterations in the sheep model of PCOS phenotype, centering specifically on key neurons, neuropeptides, and regulatory pathways controlling GnRH and LH secretion. Insights obtained from the sheep model as well as other animal models of perinatal androgen excess can have important translational relevance to treat and prevent neuroendocrine dysfunction in women with PCOS and other fertility disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Gurule
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | | | | | - Rodolfo Cardoso
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
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Jaśkowski BM, Herudzińska M, Gehrke M, Niżański W. The impact of the cavitary corpus luteum on the blood progesterone concentration and pregnancy rate of embryo recipient heifers. Theriogenology 2022; 178:73-76. [PMID: 34781068 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
In cattle there are two types of the corpus luteum (CL): homogeneous (CLhom) and cavitary (CLcav). Although they are considered equal in their hormonal activity, the function of the CLcav is questioned by many veterinarians. In consequence, females with the CLcav are considered less valuable for assisted reproductive techniques such as embryo transfer (ET), where recipients with the CLhom are preferred. The aim of our study was to compare the two types of CLs regarding morphological endpoints, serum progesterone (P4) concentrations and final pregnancy rate (PR) in recipient heifers after ET. The morphological type of the CL and the final PR after ET of 432 Holstein Friesian heifers were analyzed. Oestrus was synchronized with two i.m. inj. of 0.5 μg cloprostenol 14 days apart. The ET took place on the day 7 of the estrous cycle, only animals with visible oestrum were chosen for the procedure. Clinical and transrectal US examinations of ovaries were performed on the day of ET. The presence of the CLhom or CLcav was determined, and the CL diameter and cross-sectional area were measured. If present, measurements of the cavities were also taken. Only embryos recovered immediately prior to the ET at the morula or blastocyst stage were transferred to the randomly chosen recipient that underwent initial selection regardless of the CL morphology. Additionally, from randomly selected heifers (N = 53, CLhom = 33; CLcav = 20) blood samples for serum P4 concentration analysis were collected. Pregnancy was determined by transrectal palpation 2 months after ET. The medium-sized CLcav was larger in diameter (P < 0.001) and cross-sectional area (P < 0.01) than the CLhom (mean ± SD) - 23.29 ± 3.6 mm and 419.57 ± 135.01 mm2 compared to 21.87 ± 3.57 mm and 384.73 ± 145.46 mm2, respectively. The mean diameter and cross-sectional area of the cavity were 10.2 ± 4.36 mm and 97.59 ± 71.13 mm2, respectively. The volume of both types of CLs was similar (P = 0.3). The mean serum P4 concentration was 8.84 ng/ml, higher (P < 0.0001) for females with the CLcav (11.31 ng/ml) than for those with the CLhom (7.15 ng/ml). The PR was 36.1%, higher (P < 0.05) for recipients with the CLcav (47.7%) compared to the CLhom (29.9%). The presence of a CLcav in the recipient heifers did not negatively affect the potential of the CL to maintain pregnancy. On the contrary, the CLcav may give the embryo better chances of surviving the time of pregnancy recognition and in consequence, may have a positive effect on PR in heifers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bartłomiej M Jaśkowski
- Department of Reproduction and Clinic of Farm Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Plac Grunwaldzki 49, 50-366, Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Magdalena Herudzińska
- Department of Basic and Preclinical Sciences, Institute for Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Gagarina 7, 87-100, Torun, Poland
| | - Marek Gehrke
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Diagnostic, Institute for Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Gagarina 7, Toruń, Poland
| | - Wojciech Niżański
- Department of Reproduction and Clinic of Farm Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Plac Grunwaldzki 49, 50-366, Wrocław, Poland
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Yenuganti VR, Ravinder, Singh D. Endotoxin induced TLR4 signaling downregulates CYP19A1 expression through CEBPB in buffalo granulosa cells. Toxicol In Vitro 2017; 42:93-100. [PMID: 28412504 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2017.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Revised: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Estrogen is essential for growth and development of ovarian follicles. Infections associated with E. coli or Endotoxin (LPS) suppress estradiol production by the downregulation of CYP19A1 expression. However, the molecular mechanism of its down regulation is not yet known. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms of LPS-mediated downregulation of CYP19A1 gene expression, we studied the effect of LPS and TLR4 signaling pathway inhibitor (OxPAPC, OxPAPC-Oxidized 1-palmitoyl-2-arachidonoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine) on CYP19A1 expression, and expression of CEBPB and CEBPB binding on CYP19A1 proximal promoter (CYP19A1 PII) in buffalo granulosa cells in vitro. The results showed that LPS (1μg/ml) significantly declined the expression of CYP19A1 gene. In further experiments, inhibitor studies confirmed the involvement of TLR4 in LPS induced CYP19A1 gene down regulation in buffalo granulosa cells. LPS promoted higher levels of CEBPB at cellular and nuclear level in granulosa cells. Chromatin immunoprecipitation results showed, that LPS induces higher amount of CEBPB binding on the CYP19A1 PII. Further, TLR4 inhibitor attenuated the LPS induced implications. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that CEBPB could be a potential regulator for LPS mediated downregulation of CYP19A1 and decline of 17-beta estradiol levels in buffalo granulosa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vengala Rao Yenuganti
- Molecular Endocrinology, Functional Genomics and Systems Biology Laboratory, Animal Biochemistry Division, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal 132001, Haryana, India
| | - Ravinder
- Molecular Endocrinology, Functional Genomics and Systems Biology Laboratory, Animal Biochemistry Division, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal 132001, Haryana, India
| | - Dheer Singh
- Molecular Endocrinology, Functional Genomics and Systems Biology Laboratory, Animal Biochemistry Division, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal 132001, Haryana, India.
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Gadsby JE, Tyson Nipper AM, Faircloth HA, D'Annibale-Tolhurst M, Chang J, Farin PW, Sheldon IM, Poole DH. Toll-like receptor and related cytokine mRNA expression in bovine corpora lutea during the oestrous cycle and pregnancy. Reprod Domest Anim 2017; 52:495-504. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- JE Gadsby
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine; North Carolina State University; Raleigh NC USA
| | - AM Tyson Nipper
- Department of Animal Science; North Carolina State University; Raleigh NC USA
| | - HA Faircloth
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine; North Carolina State University; Raleigh NC USA
| | - M D'Annibale-Tolhurst
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine; North Carolina State University; Raleigh NC USA
| | - J Chang
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine; North Carolina State University; Raleigh NC USA
| | - PW Farin
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology and Center for Comparative Medicine and Translational Research; College of Veterinary Medicine; North Carolina State University; Raleigh NC USA
| | - IM Sheldon
- Institute of Life Science; College of Medicine; Swansea University; Swansea UK
| | - DH Poole
- Department of Animal Science; North Carolina State University; Raleigh NC USA
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6
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Wagman JD, Wolfe BA, Schook MW. The effect of fluphenazine decanoate on glucocorticoid production, reproductive cyclicity, and the behavioral stress response in the Persian onager (Equus hemionus onager). Zoo Biol 2015; 34:525-34. [PMID: 26491959 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2015] [Revised: 09/03/2015] [Accepted: 10/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Artificial insemination, performed to maximize genetic diversity in populations of zoo-housed animals, requires intensive management and has been associated with low success rates in fractious species. In these species, stressors, such as frequent handling, may impact fertility. Long-acting neuroleptic pharmaceuticals (LANs) can attenuate the stress response to handling, but may also disrupt ovulation in some species, compromising their use for artificial insemination. Therefore, the goal of this study was to determine whether LANs may be used to mitigate stress during reproductive management in wild equids without inhibiting ovulation. Six female Persian onagers (Equus hemionus onager) were treated with fluphenazine decanoate (FD; 0.1 mg/kg IM) or saline control in a random crossover design study. Urinary cortisol, progesterone, estrogen metabolites and behavior were monitored, and follicular dynamics were examined using ultrasonography until ovulation. Onagers demonstrated significantly lower cortisol concentrations (P = 0.03) when treated with FD (6.61 ± 3.26 ng/mg creatinine) compared to saline (9.73 ± 3.19 ng/mg creatinine). Overall, there were no differences in peak estrogen (P = 0.51) or progesterone (P = 0.38) concentrations between the two groups, and all animals ovulated within the expected time frame following FD treatment. However, some onagers exhibited only minor reductions in cortisol secretion and one treated female demonstrated a suppressed luteal progesterone peak, indicating a possible reproductive cost to FD administration. While FD may be useful for highly fractious equids for which the stress of handling delays or inhibits ovulation, these results warrant further investigation of dosing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason D Wagman
- Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Conservation and Science, Cleveland, Ohio.,Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Barbara A Wolfe
- College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Animal Health, Columbus, Ohio.,The Wilds, Wildlife and Conservation Medicine, Cumberland, Ohio
| | - Mandi W Schook
- Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Conservation and Science, Cleveland, Ohio.,Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio.,The Wilds, Wildlife and Conservation Medicine, Cumberland, Ohio
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Miura R, Haneda S, Matsui M. Ovulation of the preovulatory follicle originating from the first-wave dominant follicle leads to formation of an active corpus luteum. J Reprod Dev 2015; 61:317-23. [PMID: 26018204 PMCID: PMC4547989 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2014-099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of our study was to compare the characteristics of the corpus luteum (CL) formed after ovulation of the dominant follicle (DF) of the first follicular wave (W1) and those of the CL formed after ovulation of the DF of the second (induced) follicular wave (W2). Non-lactating Holstein cows were used for this study. In Experiment 1, cows were treated with PGF2α and GnRH on days 6 and 8 (day 0 = day of follicular wave emergence) for W1 (n = 6) and W2 (n = 6), respectively. Dominant follicles were aspirated on day 9 to quantify the amounts of mRNA (VEGF120, VEGF164, FGF-2, StAR, P450-scc and 3β-HSD) in granulosa cells (GC). In Experiment 2, the size and blood flow area of the CL formed after ovulation of the DF in W1 (W1CL; n = 6) and W2 (W2CL; n = 6) (the day of DF ovulation in W1 and W2 was day 10) were evaluated on days 12, 15, 18 and 21. The plasma P4
concentration was measured on days 10 to 21. The amounts of VEGF164, P450-scc and 3β-HSD mRNA were higher (P < 0.05) in the DF in W1, and those of VEGF120,FGF-2 and StAR mRNA tended to be higher (P < 0.1) in the DF in W1. The size of the CL was greater in the W1CL on days 15, 18 and 21. The blood flow area of the CL was greater in the W1CL on days 12 and 15. The plasma P4 concentrations were higher in the W1CL. These results indicate that the CL formed after ovulation of the DF in W1 was greater in terms of size, blood flow and plasma P4 concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryotaro Miura
- The United Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
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8
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Kaneko K, Takagi N. Accurate ultrasonographic prediction of progesterone concentrations greater than 1 ng/ml in Holstein lactating dairy cows. Reprod Domest Anim 2014; 49:985-8. [PMID: 25251911 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2014] [Accepted: 08/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
To develop an ultrasonographic assay for determining plasma progesterone concentration (P4 ) as < 1 ng/ml or ≥ 1 ng/ml, the corpus luteum (CL) area and P4 were measured in 1094 multiparous Holstein cows. The area-measuring function and frozen images were used to outline and measure CL imaged via ultrasonography, and CL area was estimated as a polygon of a continuation straight line. A significant correlation was found between CL area and P4 (p < 0.001), and this analysis resulted in the following correlation equation: y = -0.35 + 1.02x (r = 0.81). According to the correlation equation, a CL area of 1.3 cm(2) indicated a P4 of 1 ng/ml. Based on this relationship, each animal was categorized into one of six groups, groups differed based on CL area, and the area ranges were as follows: < 1.3 cm(2) (Group A), 1.3-2.2 cm(2) (Group B), 2.3-3.2 cm(2) (Group C), 3.3-4.2 cm(2) (Group D), 4.3-5.2 cm(2) (Group E) and > 5.2 cm(2) (Group F). For each group, the proportion of cows whose P4 was 1 ng/ml or more was 1.5% in Group A, 83.3% in Group B, 76.6% in Group C, 96.6% in Group D, 99.2% in Group E and 100% in Group F. There was a significant difference between Group A and the other five groups, and between Groups B or C and Groups D, E or F (p < 0.005). These results indicate that a functional CL does not exist when the CL area is less than 1.3 cm(2) and that it exists when the CL area is 3.3 cm(2) or more.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Kaneko
- Department of Veterinary Obstetrics and Gynecology, Azabu University, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
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Rantala MH, Mutikainen M, Schuler G, Katila T, Taponen J. Endometrial expression of progesterone, estrogen, and oxytocin receptors and of 20α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and cyclooxygenase II 2 and 5 days after ovulation in induced short and normal estrous cycles in dairy cows. Theriogenology 2014; 81:1181-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2013] [Revised: 12/30/2013] [Accepted: 01/16/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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The effects of progesterone treatment following artificial insemination on the reproductive performance of dairy cows. Trop Anim Health Prod 2013; 46:405-10. [DOI: 10.1007/s11250-013-0504-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/05/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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King SG, Dobson H, Royal MD, Christley RM, Murray RD, Routly JE, Smith RF, Mann GE. Identification of inadequate maternal progesterone concentrations in nulliparous dairy heifers and treatment with human chorionic gonadotrophin. Vet Rec 2013; 173:450. [PMID: 24128945 DOI: 10.1136/vr.101330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Plasma progesterone concentrations were estimated for 381 nulliparous dairy heifers from eight farms on days 4-6 after insemination. Heifers were synchronised using two treatments of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) 11 days apart. Alternate heifers were treated with 1500 IU human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) at the time of sampling, and the pregnancy status assessed ~35 days after insemination. Heifers with no corpus luteum (CL; n-30) at the second PGF2α had lower progesterone concentrations (P<0.001) and pregnancy rates (PR; P=0.001) compared with heifers with CL (n=351, defined as cyclic). The risk of no CL increased in heifers <15 months of age (OR=7.5, P<0.001) and with body condition score <2.5 (OR=4.5, P=0.001). Those with no CL were removed from further analysis. The 20 per cent cyclic control heifers with progesterone concentrations ≤2 ng/ml on days 4-6 had lower PRs compared with those with higher concentrations (42 per cent vs 64 per cent, OR=0.3, P=0.01). There was no overall effect of hCG on PR compared with controls (51 per cent vs 60 per cent, P=0.10). However, heifers with high progesterone on days 4-6 (>2 ng/ml) had a lower PR after treatment (51 per cent vs 64 per cent, OR=0.6, P=0.02). Heifers inseminated with sexed (n=18) compared with conventional (n=333) semen had a decreased PR (33 per cent vs 57 per cent, OR=0.2, P=0.01). This study demonstrates that higher plasma progesterone concentrations as early as days 4-6 after insemination have a positive effect on first insemination PR, but there was no beneficial effect of hCG treatment on these days in dairy heifers.
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Affiliation(s)
- S G King
- Lambert, Leonard & May, Old Woodhouses, Broughall, Whitchurch, Shropshire SY13 4AQ, UK
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12
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Follicle stimulating hormone secretion and dominant follicle growth during treatment of Bos indicus heifers with intra-vaginal progesterone releasing devices, oestradiol benzoate, equine chorionic gonadotrophin and prostaglandin F2α. Anim Reprod Sci 2013; 137:129-36. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2012.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2012] [Revised: 12/14/2012] [Accepted: 12/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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13
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Forro A, Tsousis G, Beindorff N, Sharifi R, Jäkel L, Bollwein H. Combined use of Ovsynch and progesterone supplementation after artificial insemination in dairy cattle. J Dairy Sci 2012; 95:4372-81. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2011-5196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2011] [Accepted: 04/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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14
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Gilbert RO. The effects of endometritis on the establishment of pregnancy in cattle. Reprod Fertil Dev 2012; 24:252-7. [DOI: 10.1071/rd11915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometritis is common in post partum dairy cows and is associated with impaired reproductive performance reflected in reduced first service conception, reduced hazard of pregnancy over the breeding period and increased risk of reproductive culling. The observed effects may be mediated directly by bacterial products, such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS, endotoxin), or indirectly by inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines, eicosanoids, nitric oxide and oxidative stress affecting sperm, ovarian, uterine and embryonic function. An inflammatory milieu in the uterus has been associated with changes in sperm motility and function as well as increased sperm phagocytosis. Zygotes resulting from fertilisation of oocytes with sperm subjected to oxidative stress are less likely to develop to the blastocyst stage. In addition, LPS and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNFα) impair follicular steroidogenesis, growth and ovulation. Oocytes exposed to LPS or prostaglandin (PG) F2α during maturation are less likely to develop to blastocyst stage after fertilisation. Embryos exposed to inflammatory mediators during development have fewer trophoectoderm cells. Nitric oxide impairs development of preimplantation embryos and TNFα increases blastomere apoptosis. Endometritis in women has been associated with higher rates of implantation failure. Extragenital inflammation (e.g. mastitis) is also associated with an increased rate of embryonic loss in cattle. These observations make it clear that direct and indirect effects of endometritis, and inflammation in general, can interrupt successful reproduction at several crucial stages.
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15
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Pandey A, Dhaliwal G, Ghuman S, Agarwal S. Impact of pre-ovulatory follicle diameter on plasma estradiol, subsequent luteal profiles and conception rate in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). Anim Reprod Sci 2011; 123:169-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2010.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2010] [Revised: 11/21/2010] [Accepted: 12/06/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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16
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Pretheeban T, Balendran A, Gordon M, Rajamahendran R. mRNA of luteal genes associated with progesterone synthesis, maintenance, and apoptosis in dairy heifers and lactating dairy cows. Anim Reprod Sci 2010; 121:218-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2010.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2010] [Revised: 05/05/2010] [Accepted: 05/20/2010] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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17
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Mann G. Corpus luteum size and plasma progesterone concentration in cows. Anim Reprod Sci 2009; 115:296-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2008.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2008] [Revised: 11/05/2008] [Accepted: 11/13/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Williams EJ, Sibley K, Miller AN, Lane EA, Fishwick J, Nash DM, Herath S, England GCW, Dobson H, Sheldon IM. The effect of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide and tumour necrosis factor alpha on ovarian function. Am J Reprod Immunol 2009; 60:462-73. [PMID: 19238751 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2008.00645.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Pelvic inflammatory disease and metritis are important causes of infertility in humans and domestic animals. Uterine infection with Escherichia coli in cattle is associated with reduced ovarian follicle growth and decreased estradiol secretion. We hypothesized that this effect could be mediated by the bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or cytokines such as tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha). METHOD OF STUDY In vitro, bovine ovarian theca and granulosa cells were treated with LPS or TNFalpha and steroid secretion measured. In vivo, the effect of LPS or TNFalpha intrauterine infusion was determined by ovarian ultrasonography and measurement of hormones in cattle. RESULTS Lipopolysaccharide reduced granulosa cell estradiol secretion, whilst TNFalpha decreased theca and granulosa cell androstenedione and estradiol production, respectively. In vivo, fewer animals ovulated following intrauterine infusion with LPS or TNFalpha. CONCLUSION Lipopolysaccharide and TNFalpha suppress ovarian cell function, supporting the concept that pelvic inflammatory disease and metritis are detrimental for bovine ovarian health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin J Williams
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London, UK.
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Robinson RS, Hammond AJ, Wathes DC, Hunter MG, Mann GE. Corpus luteum-endometrium-embryo interactions in the dairy cow: underlying mechanisms and clinical relevance. Reprod Domest Anim 2008; 43 Suppl 2:104-12. [PMID: 18638111 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2008.01149.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Conception rates of dairy cows are currently declining at an estimated 1% every year. Approximately, 35% of embryos fail to prevent luteolysis during the first three weeks of gestation. Interactions between the corpus luteum, endometrium and embryo are critical to the successful establishment of pregnancy and inadequacies will result in the mortality of the embryo. For example, as little as a one day delay in the post-ovulatory rise of progesterone has serious consequences for embryo development and survival. Recently, we found that LH support, degree of vascularization and luteal cell steroidogenic capacity were not the major factors responsible for this luteal inadequacy, but are nevertheless essential for luteal development and function. Progesterone acting on its receptor in the endometrium stimulates the production of endometrial secretions on which the free-living embryo is dependent. However, their exact composition and effects of inadequate progesterone remains to be determined. The embryo is recognized through its secretion of interferon tau (IFNT), which suppresses luteolytic pulses of prostaglandin F(2 alpha). In the cow, it is most likely that IFNT inhibits oxytocin receptor up-regulation directly and does not require the prior inhibition of oestrogen receptor alpha (ESR1). Unravelling the precise luteal-endometrium and embryo interactions is essential for us to understand pregnancy establishment and development of strategies to reverse the declining fertility of dairy cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- R S Robinson
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, Leics, UK.
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Herath S, Williams EJ, Lilly ST, Gilbert RO, Dobson H, Bryant CE, Sheldon IM. Ovarian follicular cells have innate immune capabilities that modulate their endocrine function. Reproduction 2007; 134:683-93. [PMID: 17965259 PMCID: PMC2735812 DOI: 10.1530/rep-07-0229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 244] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Oestrogens are pivotal in ovarian follicular growth, development and function, with fundamental roles in steroidogenesis, nurturing the oocyte and ovulation. Infections with bacteria such as Escherichia coli cause infertility in mammals at least in part by perturbing ovarian follicle function, characterised by suppression of oestradiol production. Ovarian follicle granulosa cells produce oestradiol by aromatisation of androstenedione from the theca cells, under the regulation of gonadotrophins such as FSH. Many of the effects of E. coli are mediated by its surface molecule lipopolysaccharide (LPS) binding to the Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4), CD14, MD-2 receptor complex on immune cells, but immune cells are not present inside ovarian follicles. The present study tested the hypothesis that granulosa cells express the TLR4 complex and LPS directly perturbs their secretion of oestradiol. Granulosa cells from recruited or dominant follicles are exposed to LPS in vivo and when they were cultured in the absence of immune cell contamination in vitro they produced less oestradiol when challenged with LPS, although theca cell androstenedione production was unchanged. The suppression of oestradiol production by LPS was associated with down-regulation of transcripts for aromatase in granulosa cells, and did not affect cell survival. Furthermore, these cells expressed TLR4, CD14 and MD-2 transcripts throughout the key stages of follicle growth and development. It appears that granulosa cells have an immune capability to detect bacterial infection, which perturbs follicle steroidogenesis, and this is a likely mechanism by which ovarian follicle growth and function is perturbed during bacterial infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Herath
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU, UK
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Mann GE, Robinson RS, Hunter MG. Corpus luteum size and function following single and double ovulations in non-lactating dairy cows. Theriogenology 2007; 67:1256-61. [PMID: 17336374 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2007.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2006] [Revised: 01/15/2007] [Accepted: 01/15/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Data was collated from a number of studies on various aspects of luteal function in non-lactating dairy cows to allow comparisons to be made between single and double ovulating animals. In these studies, estrous cycles had been synchronized and animals slaughtered on day 5 or 8. The overall incidence of double ovulations was 28.3%. Double ovulation was associated with smaller individual corpora lutea but no difference in total weight of luteal tissue or any aspect of luteal tissue function or plasma concentrations of progesterone. Furthermore, in a sub set of animals, there was no difference in preovulatory follicle characteristics or plasma concentrations of estradiol around ovulation. These results demonstrated a high incidence of double ovulation in non-lactating cows that had no influence on circulating progesterone concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- G E Mann
- University of Nottingham, School of Biosciences, Division of Animal Physiology, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, LE12 5RD, UK.
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Robinson RS, Hunter MG, Mann GE. Supra-basal progesterone concentrations during the follicular phase are associated with development of cystic follicles in dairy cows. Vet J 2006; 172:340-6. [PMID: 15914046 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2005.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that supra-basal concentrations of progesterone during the follicular phase are associated with the development of follicular cysts. Twenty-five non-lactating dairy cows were used in the study, which was performed over five identical replicate trials. Luteolysis was induced during the mid-luteal phase. Transrectal ultrasonography was performed daily to determine the occurrence/timing of ovulation. Plasma samples were collected for progesterone, oestradiol and luteinizing hormone (LH) analysis. Three cows failed to ovulate (cystic anovulatory) but did ovulate in a subsequent replicate (cystic ovulatory). Eight cows from the appropriate replicates were used as control cows (normal group). Follicular growth patterns and plasma oestradiol concentrations were similar between the three groups. However, the plasma progesterone concentrations during the follicular phase were twofold higher in the cystic anovulatory group (P < 0.01). Furthermore, no LH surge was detected in these animals. While LH pulse amplitude was similar between groups, LH pulse frequency in the cystic anovulatory group was attenuated (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the formation of follicular cysts were preceded by elevated plasma progesterone concentrations and the suppression of the LH surge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert S Robinson
- Division of Animal Physiology, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE12 5RD, UK.
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Robinson RS, Hammond AJ, Nicklin LT, Schams D, Mann GE, Hunter MG. Endocrine and cellular characteristics of corpora lutea from cows with a delayed post-ovulatory progesterone rise. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2006; 31:154-72. [PMID: 16289469 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2005.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2005] [Revised: 09/26/2005] [Accepted: 10/05/2005] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The timing of the post-ovulatory progesterone rise is critical to the embryonic development and survival. The aim of this study was to determine the underlying causes of delayed post-ovulatory progesterone rises. Two groups of non-lactating dairy cows with early (n = 11) or late (n = 9) post-ovulatory progesterone rises were created by inducing luteolysis in the presence of either a large (> 10 mm) or small (< 10 mm) follicle, respectively. LH pulses were measured on days 4 (all cows) and 7 (n = 7, early; n = 5, late) (day 1= ovulation). The cows were slaughtered on day 5 (n = 4 each group) or 8 (n = 7, early; n = 5, late). Immunohistochemical analysis for endothelial cells (von Willebrand Factor, VWF), steroidogenic cells (3beta-HSD) and proliferation marker (Ki67) were performed. The basal progesterone production and LH responsiveness (0.001-100 ng/ml) of dispersed luteal cells was investigated. The luteal concentrations of FGF-2 and VEGF were measured by ELISA and RIA, respectively. There were no differences in LH pulse characteristics, area of VWF staining, proliferation index, steroidogenic cell characteristics, basal or LH-stimulated progesterone production by luteal cells between cows with an early or late progesterone rise (P > 0.10). However, the area of VWF staining increased from days 5 to 8, while the proliferation index decreased (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the luteal cells were more responsive to LH on day 8 (P < 0.01). Luteal concentrations of FGF-2 were higher on day 5 (P = 0.05), while VEGF was greater on day 8 (P < 0.01). In conclusion, we have clearly shown that LH support, degree of vascularization or luteal cell steroidogenic capacity were not the major factors responsible for inadequate secretion of progesterone by the developing bovine CL.
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Affiliation(s)
- R S Robinson
- Division of Animal Physiology, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, Leics LE12 5RD, UK.
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